Multi-port Spider Gasket

[Jmischel]

I replaced the spider gasket on my Pentair multi-port valve. I purchased replacement gaskets on Amazon that were cross-referenced for my part number. I installed the gasket and used plenty of silicone grease on the gasket and in the channel of the multi-port. I re-installed the multi-port valve handle, everything sealed tight and no leak detected. Pump ran for several days with no leak. I vacuumed the pool and ran a backflush cycle. Once in filter mode, a small drip/leak was noticed from the backflush pipe. I repeated the entire process - lifted the gasket, applied more silicone grease, re-installed valve, ensured no leak. Back-flushed again to test the gasket and a small leak reappeared. A couple of questions:

1. Has anyone had problems with after-market gaskets? Do I need to just find Pentair gaskets and use those?
2. Is silicone grease the right approach to getting a good seal?
3. I've read where some people use Loc-tite. Is that an option and why or why not use that? If you use Loc-tite do you only use it in the corners or the entire gasket surface area that contacts the channel?
4. Any chance this is related to the valve instead of the gasket? I'm focused on the gasket because the leak stops whenever I manipulate the gasket.

I do have two additional replacement gaskets from the same after-market supplier. I didn't want to simply repeat the same mistake though if the gasket is likely the problem.

Thanks for any advice offered.

 

[TinFoilHat]

I'm going to ask the obvious question here: Why did you not get an actual Pentair gasket for it?

 

[Texas Splash]

Along with Tin's question, I might ask if you replaced any other items like the handle shaft seal O-rings or the handle tension spring?

 

[PoolStored]

Depending on the model of MPV, pentair recommends that the spider gasket is glued in. After it is glued and dried 24 hours (if you don't use CA), then the gasket should be LIGHTLY lubed.

Get rid of the one you lubed, clean up any lube in the gasket area, glue the spider gasket in. Use one of the recommended glues here:

MPV Valves - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[Jmischel]

I'm going to ask the obvious question here: Why did you not get an actual Pentair gasket for it?

Valid question - I was in a hurry one night trying to get one ordered and I typed the part number into Amazon and that was what came up. I didn't think too much about it simply because it was such a simple part.

 

[Jmischel]

Along with Tin's question, I might ask if you replaced any other items like the handle shaft seal O-rings or the handle tension spring?

The entire valve handle assembly was replaced at opening of the pool this spring. When the tech installed the new valve handle there was no leak. It wasn't until the first back flush that the leaking started that prompted me to change the spider gasket.