Broken Handles on old Ball values

[MrUnleaded]

I am looking to replace a couple broken ball valves. Only the handles are broken at the moment. I am pretty sure I can do this but was looking for some extra direction. Looking at what I have, I think I need to re-plumb most of the piping so I dug out the ground a little bit and noticed there the center line is only 1.5" while the outer two lines are both 2" lines.

I know that the left handle is to the vacuum and the right is for the skimmer but I do not really know what the center line is. Is the center line a drain? As far as I can tell I don't have anything else in the pool. Only one skimmer and one vacuum port. There is some black round things at the bottom of the pool but I haven't been able to confirm if there is any water flow through them when the pump is on(doesnt seem like it).

I have seen a couple recommendations to buy Jandy valves. I am wondering how hard it would be to potentially use a(couple?) multi-port value or if I should just replace each ball-value with one jandy valve or just a new ball valves.

Any thoughts/tips are welcome.

Thanks

 

[setsailsoon]

M,

Welcome to TFP! I would second the Jandy valve idea. Their valves are almost a standard in the industry and hold up well for many years. You can also rebuild them from readily available parts. Lastly, they are one of the few items sold by Jandy that are covered by warranty even if you DIY the replacement. I would stick with single port valves. No need for the complicated multi-port valve and if you ever want to automate you will want separate valves. I would also guess you are correct on the center line. You can always verify by having somebody put a couple of drops of food coloring above the drain then turn that valve open and Watch What Happens.

Chris

 

[pookiesunshine]

I replaced my broken ones (similar to yours) last year with these and really like them:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BQT1Q6F

were 26.50 then