Valve Care and Repair

VALVE LEAKS OR HARD TO TURN

A valve, generally, leaks either thru the valve stem or from the backwash port. This is usually caused by grit getting in under the handle and, consequently into the hole in the valve cover. The valve key stem becomes scored and then doesn't seat properly after changing valve positions.

You may be able to temporarily get by with your valve, as is,...if after you change valve positions "press the handle all the way down on the end and let go", allowing it to pop into place. Most times that will over come the resistance caused by the "scored" valve key/valve rotor stem. Valve key/valve rotor is what the handle attaches to and creates a seal in directional chambers. If you continue to do this without repair, you will ruin the valve cover.

Picture of Hayward  Valve Parts

Repairing Tips

•  Make sure you pay attention to how the handle fits on the valve key stem. If put on backwards it causes everything to reverse. Mark it with a marker.
• To remove or replace the pin from the handle you will need to relieve the tension of the valve spring by either using a vice or clamps. If you have four strong hands you can skip the clamps.
• When you have the cover detached from the valve key stem, very lightly sand any scored marks on the stem and also in the hole where the stem fits.
• When replacing the O-ring/teflon shaft seal, use very little lube. When compressing the cover back on make sure the o-ring doesn't pinch.
• To change the spider web gasket. You will need a new gasket,  some Krazy Glue, and a sharp 1/8-inch wide flat bladed screwdriver.  Using the screwdriver, scrape out every last part of the gasket and cement, in order to get back to a clean flat surface. Put a fair amount of crazy glue on the flat side of the gasket. Place the gasket, flat side down, back into place - let dry for one hour minimum.