I have to clean my Hayward 60' filter a few times a year and once I removed the filter pads from the case, it was a real pain to unbolt the rod that goes through the unit, as well as replacing it when I had cleaned the elements. I solved the problem by using my moto-tool to grind a slot in the top of the long rod so I could put a screwdriver on it. It's still a little clumsy but no more cussing for me!
