Tight strainer lid .. any advice?

[TexasBR]

The lid of the strainer basket on my Hayward Tristar single-speed 2hp pump is very tight.

Any advice on how to open it safely and without superhuman strength?
Also, any advice on how to prevent this from happening again?
Many Thanks!

 

[ajw22]

Any advice on how to open it safely and without superhuman strength?

Tap on the ears (gently) with a rubber mallet to loosen it.

Also, any advice on how to prevent this from happening again?

Did you tighten it by hand?

If you don't have enough strength to securely close the lid with your hands then use on or two taps of the mallet. As little as necessary.

 

[JamesW]

Also, lube the O-ring.

Pool Lube - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[TexasBR]

Thank you Allen. That is just the magic touch that was needed.
Happy New Year.

 

[TexasBR]

Thank you James. I added the Aladdin Magic Lube.
While on this topic, is this still the best lubricant, or are there better options these days?
Thanks and Happy New Year.

 

[JamesW]

Pool Lube - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[TexasBR]

Oh wow. It says clearly on this page that Teflon based stuff that I was using gets sticky .. no wonder.
I will switch to Magic Lube II effective immediately.
Thank you so very much.

 

[Kiss4aFrog]

Any pool or plumbers silicone based lube would be appropriate. Source from a big box, hardware or pool store. You want to stay away from anything petroleum based as it will degrade the rubber.