O-ring & spider replacement for Hayward Variflo XL multiport

[JasonParker]

TFP'ers,

two questions:

1. I have water leaking all around from under the rim of the multiport lid. I tried to rehab my existing O-ring and just made it worse. I've ordered the one shown here in this screenshot. What's with the seemingly bad recommendation to soak the O-ring in vegetable oil? Jack's lube FTW, right?

2. The spider gasket is glued into the diverter. Can/should I attempt to mechanically remove it and then install the new one that comes in this kit? I have no signs currently that it needs to be replaced. Yet if I did replace it, I assume I need to get the channels it sits in perfectly clean, and then procure some adhesive meant for the job. What kind of adhesive?

thanks,
Jason

 

[HermanTX]

1. I have water leaking all around from under the rim of the multiport lid. I tried to rehab my existing O-ring and just made it worse. I've ordered the one shown here in this screenshot. What's with the seemingly bad recommendation to soak the O-ring in vegetable oil? Jack's lube FTW, right?

I just use regular lubricant see Pool Lube - Further Reading on O rings.

The spider gasket is glued into the diverter. Can/should I attempt to mechanically remove it and then install the new one that comes in this kit? I have no signs currently that it needs to be replaced. Yet if I did replace it, I assume I need to get the channels it sits in perfectly clean, and then procure some adhesive meant for the job. What kind of adhesive?

I have a Pentair model but very similar design. I dug out the old gasket using a flat screwdriver. It is can be a challenge but it will come out in pieces. I did NOT glue it when I put in a new one. I just lubed it real good to have it stay in place while I reassembled it.

Note - there are some orings on that shaft that should be changed as well. Something I forgot to do and had to disassemble it to put in when they started leaking a week later.

Once all reassembled, with diverter in Filter position - let it run a day or 2 before you backwash or move the diverter.
also, to extend the life - always rotate the diverter in one direction when changing positions. For example, I only rotate it clockwise so do not go clockwise then go counter clockwise because it is a shorter distance back to filter