gonjah wrote:
On 10/21/2012 3:54 PM, wrote:
On Oct 21, 4:23 pm, gonjah wrote:
On 10/21/2012 2:42 PM, Oren wrote:





On Sun, 21 Oct 2012 14:09:09 -0500, gonjah
wrote:

The output on my sand filter developed a leak. I think it's a
seal that needs to be replaced or cleaned and lubed but I need to
get the coupling apart to fix it.

It's 29 years old so the plastic is probably very brittle. Does
anyone have experience with removing the coupling and repairing
the seals?

Here is the coupling:

http://www.safaricabs.com/output.jpg

It's a BakerHydro sandfilter.

Here's a blow-up:

http://www.poolcenter.com/images/8bakerii1969-83.gif

another:

http://www.poolcenter.com/images/8bakerII_hrv1984.gif

I'm real worried about the coupling breaking when I take it
apart. I'd rather not replace the coupling but I'm aware it maybe
inevitable. Any tips appreciated.

Thanks

You mean the leak is at the tan coupling? If so, I would first try
to hand tighten the coupling to stop the leak. On my filter
(cartridge), the couplings are only hand tight / snug. You might
order an O-ring (seal) and replace it while the coupling is open.

Good question. If you look at the second blowup it's leaking on the
top of pipe number 23 so it looks (to me) like seal #22 is leaking.
Problem is the 29 y/o plastic. I can't twist it by hand. I'd need a huge
wrench to twist the coupling. There is a very good possibility it will
break.- Hide quoted text - - Show quoted text -

I'd use a strap wrench. You can get them at HD, hardware
store, etc. HarborFreight also has them in a set where you
can get a set for about what one would cost at HD.

Per Oren's advice, I'd first try to tighten it a bit to see
if that helps. They should not be over tightened though,
typically just a little more than hand tight is all you need.

If you have to remove it and replace the o-ring, then you
have to do what you have to do. I'd also consider how
much it's leaking. If it's a pint a day, with a pool, I wouldn't
worry about it.


Is there anything like WD40 for plastic? Something I can spray it and
let it soak for a while before I try to loosen the couplings?

You are making it a bigger problem than it is. You could try spray on 100%
silicone. (food grade?)