Replacing Drain Plug Assembly on Sand Filter

[Ern59]

Hello!

I am so excited I stumbled upon this site and wish I had 3 yrs ago when I bought my first home with a desired pool!

So...I purchased a new drain assembly (plug, screen insert, large outer nut, and the housing that sits in and outside of the filter drain opening) but just needed a new plug. While attempting to remove my drain plug, I loosened and accidentally removed the middle narrow screen insert that keeps the sand from coming out. I quickly added the new insert and while screwing it in, the outer nut (original) started spinning with it and water started to leak. I tried to used tongue and groove pliers to hold it in place because I have small hands and no grip strength but the damage was already done and I guess its safe to say that the assembly is stripped...For the time being, I have the filter on recirculate to prevent additional leakage and I wasn't able to run the filter for two days due to a broken diverter/spider gasket situation. That issue is resolved but now I have the drain problem. After I switched the filter to recirculate, the water stopped dripping so I used silicone bathroom caulk around the nut because plumber's putty, teflon tape, and lube/seal did not work. My long awaited question is if the outer nut is spinning, am I going to need to drain and dump out my sand to replace the entire assembly? Im pretty sure I know the answer but have to ask because I cannot find any article or video about a drain assembly that is not Hayward or Pentair. Also, when using hose adapters on a brand new MPV, do they typically drip? Yes, I teflon'd those bad boys.

Erin

 

[Texas Splash]

My long awaited question is if the outer nut is spinning, am I going to need to drain and dump out my sand to replace the entire assembly?

I suspect at the very least you'll need to do that just to get better access. In the end, replacement may be necessary. But we have no idea what filter you are referring to. Your signature is blank and there is nothing to describe the filter make/model. You should update your signature (like mine) and perhaps post a pic or two. Then we can give you some thoughts based on the exact part.

Welcome to TFP!

Pool Care Basics Archives

Your one-stop shop for all things TFP to include: ABCs of Water Chemistry, Recommended Chemicals/Levels, Test Kits, Troubleshooting, and much more!

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[Ern59]

I suspect at the very least you'll need to do that just to get better access. In the end, replacement may be necessary. But we have no idea what filter you are referring to. Your signature is blank and there is nothing to describe the filter make/model. You should update your signature (like mine) and perhaps post a pic or two. Then we can give you some thoughts based on the exact part.

Welcome to TFP!

Pool Care Basics Archives

Your one-stop shop for all things TFP to include: ABCs of Water Chemistry, Recommended Chemicals/Levels, Test Kits, Troubleshooting, and much more!

www.troublefreepool.com

Sorry, I just registered last night and was going to add that info in the signature later.

Specs: Pool: Doughboy 21 ft AG round purchased circa 2012; Pump: White River Single Speed 1HP Model JHS10DNSGG // 891190 purchased 2019; Filter: 19" Asia Connection Blue Torrent Sand Filter Tank (no model number) purchased circa 2012 with Asia Connection Blue Torrent 6 way B/W (multiport) Valve (Hayward 714T) Model AC 08621 purchased 2022.

I literally just found out yesterday what type of sand filter I had because there were no markings and the instruction manual was a universal/generic one. I was calling it a "John Doe".
First pic is my sand filter (before purchasing a new MPV). The drain plug before pic is self explanatory. The drain plug after pic shows the silicone caulking around the outer nut (original) that is most likely stripped, then silicone caulking between the outer nut and screen insert (new) that I could not screw in anymore because of the spinning nut I assume, then the plug (new). New drain assembly part number is 08-87271. The molding/opening on the filter for the plug appears intact which is relieving because I have read some posts of those who's opening was damaged. Hopefully this info helps. Ive decided that I will drain the filter and remove the sand and replace the housing. I will also get more tape and buy new adapter/fittings just in case. I bought new hoses and my clamps look good. I am starting to consider piping everything because seeing drips after installing everything is soooo maddening.

I am a DIY type of gal so if there are any tools (hand tools) or parts that are useful for pool maintenance and to have on hand, please share or if you could refer me to the resource. I like to have things on hand to prevent delays and complications. I found this forum about three days ago and will definitely browse more once I put out all these fires.



Thank you, Texas Splash!

Erin

 

[Texas Splash]

Thanks for the pics. Someone like @1poolman1 may have come across these in his travels. Let's see if he has a recommendation.

 

[Ern59]

I wanted to give an update. I ended up removing the sand and replacing the drain assembly. I also had to replace the air bleed tube because mine was cracked then went ahead and replaced the laterals to spare my future insanity. After many hours and shedding blood, sweat and tears (literally), everything is working except for a few drips here and there from hoses but that is something I will deal with this weekend. I purchased the Polaris 65 and can't wait to set it up this weekend and watch it clean my pool while I sit back and have a cold one. I attached a pic but pay no attention to the non power washed side of my deck! Thanks again for the help!

Erin

 

[Texas Splash]