Anyone have experience with a FeherGuard Solar Cover Reel?

[bbb]

I'm looking to get a roller for my 20x40 vinyl inground pool with a diving board. I'm debating an under-the-diving board model like the feherguard low profile vs. a more standard model with casters. Any opinions on the merits of one vs. the other?

[tphaggerty]

We also have a 20x40 vinyl inground. We were discouraged from getting the under-diving board model and wound up with a very large commercial model. Big mistake (if anyone wants a reel that can span a 30' pool and hold up to 60', I have a deal for you).

We are in the process of working with our builder to replace this huge beast (which lets the cover freewheel right into the pool!), so I'll be real interested in hearing what others have to say.

[huskerfan]

I have a set of ends that are FeherGuard I'd sell pretty reasonable- you'd just have to add the tubing. They are from a good commercial reel - have casters that lock. Write me privately if interested.

[Prov35]

I'm needing a solar cover reel, and I believe I am going to go with the FeherGuard. I can't decide between the 3 different models. One has a big wheel that sits in a base - Wheels Reel, another one has polyethelyne triangular ends - Blanket handler plus, and a third design has metal T ends - Knock Down, I believe. I bought a Horizon HV-10 last year, and it didn't work well for us at all. The bearings were cheap plastic, the tube sagged, and it took a ton of effort to roll up our cover. Our pool is an inground 20 x 40. Any input would be greatly appreciated. And it doesn't have to be FeherGuard, either. I just want to get it right this time!

[HowardS]

I bought a reel at Leslie's about 4 years ago (forgot the brand name). I never had a problem with sagging of the aluminum tube itself even though the cover (18x40) is pretty heavy.

However, from the beginning I had problems with the plastic ends flexing when the weather got hot. These are the two ends that are rounded triangular shape and hold the handles and the casters. Last summer, they had bent so much that they are now unusable.

The plastic is white and heavy looking, but I am now looking for a replacement that is not plastic. Does anyone know if I can buy just the ends (aluminum or steel)?
Thanks.