Yes, I shut off the pump, turn the multiport handle 180 degrees, turn pump back on & backwash through a hose out to the woods & then turn the pump back off & handle back 180 degrees, turn pump back on & water goes right back out the return jets into pool (most of the time with junk in the return water & now I understand why!). I'm not sure if I always go clockwise or not. Like you said earlier, the handle IS very hard to turn, so I will see about replacing that washer. Should I just try to get it off & take it to Lowe's??? Shop online? I'm not even sure that I will be able to get it off
Thanks!!