 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Replacing Multiport Valve Spider Gaskets
Swim pool Multiport valves are common to both Sand and D.E. filters. A simple sweep of the handle directs water to 'Filter', 'Recirculate', 'BackWash' and 'Rinse'.
It's when water doesn't go where you want or continually drips out of the waste line that you suspect something is wrong with the valve.
Chances are, it's a blown spider gasket that's causing the problem.
And it's a good chance that you're the one that blew it.
The quickest way to blow a spider gasket is to move the multiport handle while the pump is running.
If you doubt this statement, try it now.
To access the spider gasket, start by removing the handle. (Right) The handle is held on with a steel pin, removable by bumping one end with a hammer and something solid of lesser diameter, like a skinny Phillips head screwdriver.
Multiport caps are held on with 6- 8 stainless steel screws. Remove them.
Wiggle the cap loose and set aside. Be aware that there's a large spring directly under the cap that adds resistence to the handle. There is also a teflon washer that allows easy handle movement.
Note the position of both these components as you remove them. (The washer separates spring and valve body).
The spider gasket is aptly named; it's two circles connected by five legs. An original gasket is set with a lubricant/glue that, in a newer installation is difficult to remove but breaks down with age. Break the glue with Acetone; older installations peel easily with a pocket knife or small, flat screwdriver.
Bed the new gasket in a generous application of waterproof grease; Aqua-Lube or Petroleum Jelly. (Some newbie countermen advise embedding this gasket in SuperGlue or other powerful adhesive. They can say this because they don't actually have to do it. When you use glue inside a valve you risk not only making it completely inoperable but unrepairable, as well. So long as you're generous with the grease and don't turn the valve over and shake it before you get it back together, you'll have no problem with this gasket.)
Fit the lid to the filter, lining the largest gap in the gasket up with largest gap in the valve body . Reset the teflon washer. Set the cap, lining up the screws; there's only one way it will fit. Assuming you still have grease available, lubricate the cap gasket now.
Congratulations!
For about $20.00, you've completed a $90 (parts and service) procedure.
