Sorry it took so long to get back. I took all of the sand out and inspected the bottom X and the center pipe. Didn't see anything broken. The center pipe doesnt actually attach to the X, it has a smaller fitting on it that sets down on the X. Don't know if thats normal since this is my first sand filter. I put the sand back in it, filled it up, attached the top and it has been running fine. (knock on wood) I feel that when I was using the vac, it lost flow and began suckn up sand? Maybe I didnt have it attached good? I dont know how they expect you to fix the X cause it wont come out of the tank unless you break it. Hopefully I wont have to deal with that. I do recommend to anyone with an intex pool with cartridge filters to replace it with a sand filter if its in your budget. Within just a few hours of running it the pool had cleared up dramatically. Again, thanks for all the help, the BBB has helped me with my pool greatly. If I had to mess with chemicals much I think I would of gave up the pool long ago. I'll try to keep you posted about the service I get out of my Columbia.