trying to diagnose Polaris cleaner problem

[aylad]

That's the backup valve--it's a solid piece.

[bri3180]

That's the backup valve--it's a solid piece.

Is this a part that must be replaced? Thank you.

[aylad]

It is necessary in order to make the Polaris work correctly. It's where the jet of water comes out that picks the cleaner up and moves it to a different spot. It should shoot water for about 30 seconds, then stop. If it's not working correctly, it does need to be replaced. It's expensive, though--I think the one I replaced ran around $50.

Janet