Hayward Sand Filter E100 Series Handle Problems.....

[SuzeFromDE]

Morning all,
I was attempting to backwash this AM and the handle on my filter was extremely hard to rotate. I slowly was able to move it but I can see a white ring or washer-like piece that has a break in it ( I assume it should be continuous).
I found a Hayward schematic and it seems to be called a non metallic bearing? The part is listed rather cheaply, but my question is, is this something a DIYer can handle herself?
I see where the handle can be unscrewed...I am trying to not buy an entire assembly.
Any ideas?

Thanks so much!

 

[JasonLion]

Yes, you should be able to handle this yourself if you are at all handy with tools.

In addition to the ring you can see, you might also have problems with the spider gasket.