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View Full Version : Booster pump (PB4) seal leak



vgg659
07-07-2006, 08:38 AM
I have a booster pump that has a seal leak, and it's getting bad enough to have to fix.

I'm comfortable doing light mechanic work. How difficult is it to replace the seal?

Also, based on a PB4 diagram at http://www.poolcenter.com/parts_pumps_polaris_booster_pump.htm, is it recommended that I replace parts P-55, P-95, P-40, or just P-95 and P-40?

Poconos
07-07-2006, 09:02 AM
If you're sure it's the seal assembly I'd replace it and the other two parts while in the thing. The way you stated the question you were looking to just replace the O-rings. P-55 is the seal assy. Anyhow, are you sure it isn't just the large O-ring that is leaking under pressure? My Hayward pump is similar and the one large o-ring leaks every spring, then I tighten the 4 bolts and it stops until next Spring. It's finally squished enough I'll replace it next year...already bought a new one. As to how hard it is to replace? Don't know, never had to do mine yet, but it doesn't sound difficult at all. Some comments I've seen on this forum over time relate to bolts rusting and seizing on equipment that is exposed to the elements.
Al

vgg659
08-27-2006, 11:34 AM
I replaced the seal and the two o-rings, and ran into no surprises. I did have a little problem with the two lower bolts that hold the pump housing to the motor. I used "never sieze" when I reassembled the pump to ward off future problems.

Given that all of my bolts were stainless, there was no rust or corrsion. I think my problem with the two lower bolts was calcium buildup from the pool water leaking on them. They were hard to remove, but not nearly hard enough to break off the bolt heads.

This was an easy project.

Poconos
08-27-2006, 01:39 PM
Thanks for the update and another happy customer.
Al

AmigaDude
08-29-2006, 12:09 PM
OK, someone has to let me in on this secret: How do you remove the impeller? I put a wrench on the motor to hold it, but cannot get the impeller loose even with a strap wrench.

vgg659
09-03-2006, 08:21 AM
I put a pair of needle nose vice grips on the motor shaft to keep the shaft from spinning, and simply unscrewed the impeller with my hand. I do not remember the impeller being reverse threaded, but maybe that's the problem.