Hayward Vari-Flo Control Valve Problem?

I've had small quantities of sand in the pool over the past couple years most likely from my sand filter. This morning a small green plastic ring came out from under the position handle of the Vari-Flo Control Valve. It's squished and broken. Looks like it's been wearing for a long time. (Don't have a picture with me right now) I haven't been able to find any parts manual that ID's this piece. The pool is clearer today and I noticed there is a lot of sand in the bottom. More than usual. Could the control valve have issues causing sand to leak into pool? The pool is also not clearing up as quickly as it has in the past.

It is a Hayward Vari-Flo Control Valve SP714 on a sand filter base S180T

Looks like it could be the non-metallic bearing. Can this be replaced or should I just buy a new control valve? The unit is about 8-9 years old. This was the first year I left it out for the winter. Maybe there was some water on top of the valve that froze and caused damage.

http://www.yourpoolhq.com/non-metall...0714t-5pk.html

What research wasn't appearing earlier is now coming up. I've seen some comments about people replacing the control valve fixes the pea green pool water (which is exactly what I have right now). It also makes sense since the valve has been difficult to rotate for the past several years. One person even had the bearing pop out and that required a rebuild of the valve for a small part. I just ordered a replacement control valve and I'll see what that does.

While I'm hoping a new control valve fixes the problem, I would still like any input from the users here as I build my knowledge database.

I'll update once I have the new valve in place.