Can't remove pool pump lid

[pooln00b]

Hi Guys. I was wondering if you can give me any advice on how to remove my pool pump lid. I never had a problem before until I replaced the filters in my DE pump. At the same time I put silicone lubricant on the O ring for the filter itself, I did the same thing (apparently stupidly) for the gasket on the pump basket/lid, and now I can't get it off.

This is the basket:

And the lid looks similar (although not exactly the same) to this:

Any help would be appreciated!

 

[X-PertPool]

they do sell a tool to remove lids. I don't know the model number off the top of my head but it might be at a local pool store. Sometimes kicking the lid with a glancing blow in the direction it's supposed to turn will loosen it up. Personally I think you are better off with the tool, then cleaning the lid and o-ring and then lubricating.

 

[pooln00b]

they do sell a tool to remove lids. I don't know the model number off the top of my head but it might be at a local pool store. Sometimes kicking the lid with a glancing blow in the direction it's supposed to turn will loosen it up. Personally I think you are better off with the tool, then cleaning the lid and o-ring and then lubricating.

Oh cool, I will check with my local pool store. Thanks!

I thought about using a hammer to kind of get it loose (like kicking it) but I don't want to break it! :lol:

 

[Melt In The Sun]

I use a long pair of channel lock pliers.

 

[pooln00b]

I use a long pair of channel lock pliers.

Thanks! I did try something like that with a different tool, but it didn't work. I'll try the pliers and see if they work better.

 

[duraleigh]

If you have a couple of 2x4's (roughly 2-3' each)and some clamps, clamp them snugly on each side of the ridges on the lid and unscrew the lid.

 

[pooln00b]

If you have a couple of 2x4's (roughly 2-3' each)and some clamps, clamp them snugly on each side of the ridges on the lid and unscrew the lid.

Another great idea! Thanks!

 

[JamesW]

I think that the Hayward SP3100T Cover Removal Tool would work.

http://www.aqua-man.com/row_num.asp?Ic=992

There is also this tool:

http://www.poolsupplyunlimited.com/best ... TOOL/79675

 

[mas985]

Try turning the lid with the pump on. The suction can sometimes make it easier to turn.

 

[proginov]

I took a 1x4 and cut a groove in it. Keep it behind the filter so it is always handy.

 

[Melt In The Sun]

I took a 1x4 and cut a groove in it. Keep it behind the filter so it is always handy.

That's a really slick idea! Thanks for posting it.

 

[Puffin]

I took a 1x4 and cut a groove in it. Keep it behind the filter so it is always handy.

That's a really slick idea! Thanks for posting it.

That is a great idea! I'm going to have to try that! I have the same kind of pump lid. The first time I took it off, I thought I was going to break it and it would never come off. I think I used some kind of long handled adjustable wrench, like channel locks, pipe wrench or something like that to get it off. I remember use a rag on the lid handle to try and keep the jaws from damaging it.

I wouldn't sweat the silicone pool lube, you should use it to help keep o-ring lubed and help seal the lid against possible leaks. Btw you don't have wrench it back on with tons of force, you just need it tight enough to seat so air and water don't leak in/out. Make sure the o-ring is in good shape, lube it and ensure the channels the o-ring sits in are clean. In my case the o-ring was worn and the last person to touch it didn't lubed it (or so it seemed). So he just wrenched on with a loads of force so it wouldn't leak.

 

[rickh_4c]

What kind of lube do you recommend?

Thanks,
Rick

 

[Puffin]

For the o-rings, just regular pool lube.. Its sold a pool supply stores and online.

Currently I use some stuff from leslies, because they right around the corner from work. But any lube designed for pools will work fine. Just don't petroleum jelly, it can degrade the o-ring
http://www.lesliespool.com/Home/Pumps-and-Motors/Parts-and-Accessories/68926.html

Maybe some others here will name the brands they like. Honestly I never thought about it much, the lube isn't that expensive and lasts a while.

 

[bobodaclown]

plumbers silicone grease works well.

 

[JamesW]

What kind of lube do you recommend?

Dow Corning 111 Valve Lubricant and Sealant

http://www.drillspot.com/products/31166 ... nd_Sealant

 

[chiefwej]

I have found that while it's fine to lube the O ring, if I let the silicone grease get on the treads it collects dust and grit and makes opening and closing the cap difficult. Keep the treads clean and dry.

 

[chanisco]

I know this is an old thread, but I just figured out a great way to get that type of cover off if it's stuck. I went to the garage and grabbed my husband's pitchfork. (The kind with the thicker tines that you use for gardening.) The spacing between the tines of the fork was perfect and I was able to turn the entire pitchfork and get my cover off easily. :-D

I hope this helps someone in the future. Please excuse the state our pump is in. We inherited it when we bought this house. :?
Christine

 

[linen]

Welcome to tfp, chanisco

Great tip!

 

[chanisco]

Thank you!