Solar Cover Reel Recommendations

[ToddLV]

Thanks for the great responses and suggestions. While I have the skills and tools necessary to build my own reel as suggested. Unless the retail reels are of such poor quality or value, I think I would rather spend the time in the pool then fabricating a reel. I do however appreciate the suggestions. With that in mind, it looks like the Feherguard seems to be winning. My next question is has anybody tried the Feherguard surface rider model? I kind of like the idea of not having to permanently mount it to the rail. Unfortunately, I have not been able to find documentation as to how it works so I am a little hesitant. The ads say that it works great, they wouldn’t lie would they?

[dslowik]

Can't answer about the surface rider, but I'd think a large solar cover would weigh quite a bit when wet. I don't actually have to totally lift mine since I just pivot while holding one end.

I had concerns about mounting to my rails. Especially since I don't have flat rails. Mine rails kind of arch down. So I choose not to mount them to a rail. I sunk 3 4X6 pieces of wood for the rail. One on each side of the pool (right at the rail) and one for it to pivot off to while swimming. It has worked great for me.

David Slowik