It worked. I used the skimmer plate w/ the attachment for it. You're right matt, that funky piece IS useless in this case. I vacuumed for about 30 minutes and waaa laaa, all the leaves were in the skimmer basket. I loose too much water each time I clean out the basket in the pump. Thanks so much......for making my future life easier. If I would have just been told when they slapped me w/ this equipment....GO POOL FORUM!