Intex Ultra XTR and frame rust

[Transy416]

We have a 9 x 18 Intex Ultra XTR on the way and I’m exploring options to minimize frame rust. I understand these are now powder coated on the inside, but I’m debating applying POR-15 as well.

POR-15 Rust Preventive Coating - Stop Rust & Corrosion Permanently

www.google.com

I’ve also read about people applying silicone tape to all joints, which sounds like a good idea. Any other thoughts/suggestions?

 

[Transy416]

Scratch the POR-15. It apparently won’t adhere well to surfaces without rust.

Any other suggestions on how to maximize the life of the frame?

 

[Wobblerlorri]

I got some Rustoleum clear sealant and coated the outside and inside of all the uprights on my pool. Didn't think to coat the cross members and tees, and I had a little rust on two cross members this year. Nothing a file and Rustoleum couldn't handle, though.

 

[Transy416]

Yes, I was also thinking of that. As an alternative, I’m also looking into coating everything with Fluid Film or Wool Wax.

I’ve read the TEES can be a problem due to the interlocking parts. Maybe the powder coating on the inner walls is helping. Do you have the XTR?

 

[Wobblerlorri]

I have a Bestway Ultra Steel. I believe it's comparable to the Intex XTR.

 

[Yivv]

I got some Rustoleum clear sealant and coated the outside and inside of all the uprights on my pool. Didn't think to coat the cross members and tees, and I had a little rust on two cross members this year. Nothing a file and Rustoleum couldn't handle, though.

How far into the poles were you able to paint with the clear sealant? Does the coating create any friction issues when connecting it to the T joint? I'm thinking of doing this with a new set of poles for an Ultra Frame.

 

[Wobblerlorri]

I used a spray can and got about a third of the way up the tube. No friction issues. I wish now I'd done the cross pieces and the tees as well.

 

[Lisbek]

I have an Intex 9x19x52” Ultra frame pool. Have used the Intex SWG x 4 years now with no rust whatsoever.

 

[Transy416]

I used a spray can and got about a third of the way up the tube. No friction issues. I wish now I'd done the cross pieces and the tees as well.

In relation to the the pool liner and where it hangs on the frame, where along the cross members are you seeing rust?

 

[Wobblerlorri]

A little surface rust on the cross members right near the connection point to the tee. A little filing, a shot of Rustoleum, it's all good. Only on two cross members.

 

[Transy416]

That makes sense that it’s near the connection. I’ve read about some people wrapping all connections with silicone tape to prevent water entry.

 

[Wobblerlorri]

Yeah, I meant to do that but forgot. I wonder if it's too late to do it now...

 

[Transy416]

I received my pool and I was looking at the design of the legs. I’m a little surprised there are no weep holes in the bottom of the legs to let water out. That said, the only entry points would be through the push pins that serve to lock in the connection. Assuming this area is sealed with silicone tape, water shouldn’t get in. However, I still wonder if a weep hole at the bottom would be a good idea. On the other hand, water would also be allowed in through a weep hole.