fighting mustard algae

sorry I'll try again....for example, timer is set to turn pump off at 5pm but at 3 pm I notice that pump is already off. Are you suggesting that I remove "off" clip on timer and see if pump runs indefinitely?

Yes, or remove the timer from the circuit completely. He is trying to rule out the timer being the problem. If the timer is not in the circuit and the pump still shuts off, the problem is most likely with the pump. If the timer is not in the circuit and the pump does not shut off, the problem is most likely with the timer.

The problem is the timer. My husband said that he tried to move or did move the pointer (which directions on the timer say NOT to do) when trying to set timer. We have a T104R timer. Suggestions on fixing this?
Thanks.

Buy a new timer. Any attempt at moving the pointer will likely strip the nylon gear. All it takes is 1 tooth on any of the gears being stripped to cause what you have described.

You can buy a complete timer unit, remove the timer from the box, and install it into your existing box:

Intermatic T104R

Intermatic sells the mechanisms alone, but you can buy the complete unit just as cheaply. Swapping mechanisms can save you some rewiring work. However, if your BOX isn't in good shape, you wouldn't want to do so.

Again, if you by the entire box, you can swap EITHER the box OR the just the mechanism.

However, as Charlie notes, the mechanism itself isn't really repairable.

Thanks. Before seeing your and charlie's responses, I asked my pool guy. He said he had never done it but to try to loosen the screw that holds the pointer down then move the pointer to the correct position (pointing to 6 o;clock) then tighten screw. I did that but can't tell you if it works yet. I had to add CYA and have had pump running non-stop. The time of day is correct but clips are removed temporarily. more to follow...
on another note,re: my leak problem, I noticed that the waste line from filter was leaking. There is also the possibility that the multi-port valve was leaking when lever was in "filter" position. I'm not sure...too much on my plate and hadn't noticed. Pool guy replaced the top part of the multi-port value. He said the o-ring was bad, and he asked me if I had shocked alot this summer....if he ONLY knew. Anyway, I said yes and he said that's what caused the o-ring to deteriorate. So, my question...is this THE leak? I mean, could I lose alot of water this way?
Thanks.