Sheared off access panel screws, ideas?

[chrismar]

I do wonder why it only lasted 5 years? My motor has lasted over 10, with only a capacitor replacement. You might want to figure out what caused the motor to smoke first.

8, according to @JamesW. I think I heard that sitting on a shelf for a few years isn't a good thing for a motor or pump anyway, so I'm sure that had something to do with it's reduced lifespan.

 

[chrismar]

Serial number 35212J2 was made on Monday December 17 2012. So, not quite 8 years old.

Introduction of a new standard date code was implemented in August of 2006 that will eventually be used on all A. O. Smith
product.

The first three characters represent the day of the year, the next two the year, and the last two the plant code.

For example, 12306M, would mean the 123rd day of 2006 (12306) manufactured in A. O. Smith’s plant (4M).

Neat! So my serial # says 35212J2, so that would be the 352nd day of 2012. Learn something new every day! Thanks!

 

[chrismar]

Now that I'm looking at VS pumps, there are so many options. Which direction should I be looking?

 

[RMcGirr83]

he few people I've spoken to about a replacement are really pushing for a single speed 1.5 H

That would be a hard NO. They are cheaper up front, and not by a whole heck of a lot, but you'll pay for it in electricity costs especially in NJ (ask me I used to live in CT).

Go with a similar size horsepower to what you have now. You may be able to find a decently priced replacement at inyo pools.

Pool Parts, Equipment & Supplies - INYOPools.com

Your Choice for Swimming Pool Supplies including... Above Ground Pools, Inground Pools, Pool Parts, Swimming Pool Pumps, Pool Pump Motors & Pool Pump Parts.

www.inyopools.com

 

[chrismar]

That would be a hard NO. They are cheaper up front, and not by a whole heck of a lot, but you'll pay for it in electricity costs especially in NJ (ask me I used to live in CT).

I’ve landed on the Tristar VS 1.85 HP, I think. Seems within my budget and easy to install (if the Mrs lets me).

 

[pploco]

I second the Tristar VS.