Ortega Valve Hard to turn

[Suley]

My Pentair ortega valves on both suction and return are hard to turn as they reach the extreme positions.

Is there anything I can do to make them turn easily and smoothly?

Thanks!

 

[Bama Rambler]

You can take the bonnet off them, pull the plug out and lube the surfaces with pool lube. That should make it turn a little easier.

 

[Suley]

Thanks! Didnt know it would be that simple!

 

[1poolman1]

Ortega valves require a silicone-based lube or the perma-lock seal on the diverter will be damaged.

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Ortega valves require a silicone-based lube or the perma-lock seal on the diverter will be damaged. The seal will swell and make turning the valve even harder, perhaps to the extent that the shaft will break loose or damage the plastic parts.

 

[Suley]

Thank you!

I am thinking I will let them be for now since I am planning an equipment addition and conversion to SWG. At that time, I will replace both the ortegas to Jandy... there is a slight leak in the return line next to the valve which can only be fixed by replacing the valve. So for now I have some epoxy holding the leak which does tend to come back and I have to put more epoxy.

Thanks for all the replies!