How to Rebuild a Caretaker 5-Port Cleaning System using the OEM 5-9-2001

Nov 05, 2020

Hello again! Periodically we like to provide our customers with some helpful tips and tricks to assist in the maintenance of their swimming pools. Today we will be walking you through the process of rebuilding your Caretaker 5-Port Cleaning System using the OEM Rebuild Kit. Let's gear up!

Tools Required:

Drill
Phillips-Head Screwdriver
Pool Lubricant

What is included in the kit?

Gear Assembly (Bubble Wrapped)
2 Large O-Rings
5 Small O-Rings
5 Pistons
5 Ball Bearings
12 Phillips-Head Screws
12 threaded screw nuts

Let's Dive In:

With the valve flipped over, use a drill to remove the 12 Phillips-Head Screws. Some older valves will only have 6 or 8 screws. If you have one of these older valves, be sure to inspect it closely for any serious signs of wear and tear. If you notice any cracks consider replacing the unit with a brand new fully assembled 1.5" or 2" assembly.
Once all the screws are loose, pinch the center plate and the top housing together tightly and flip the valve over.
Gently lift the top housing by the union threads and separate it from the center plate.
Remove the impeller, gear plate, small washers, and center pin. Also remove the ball bearings but leave the pistons there briefly so you can observe the orientation of the pistons in relation to the center pin.
Remove the old pistons, large O-ring, and lastly the five small O-rings on the underside of the centerplate.
Working in reverse, reinstall the new parts starting with the five small O-rings and the large O-ring. Ensure that the grooves are clean and free of any debris. The small O-rings do not require any lubricant, but you should always apply an adequate amount to the large O-ring to deter any leaks.
When installing the new pistons, make sure the bearing slot faces the center pin and the three tabs click into the center plate securely.
Next, place the ball bearings in their respective slots on top of each of the pistons. Each one should rest in the slight depression in the plastic, covering the small hole.
As we come towards the end, this is one of the most important steps: DO NOT CUT THE RUBBER BAND ON THE GEAR ASSEMBLY UNTIL IT IS FULLY INSTALLED. Carefully remove the bubble wrap protecting the assembly and install the center pin in the corresponding pin hole on the Center Plate.
Once the gear assembly is installed, cut the rubber band and throw it away.
The Center Plate has a peg along the outer edge that matched up with a slot on the top housing. Once you locate both, gently place the housing down onto the center plate. Due to the conical shaped diffuser on the housing, you may have to make some small adjustments to make sure the center pin lines up correctly.
You will feel a small "click" as the Center Plate & Top Housing align. At this point, you will want to tightly pinch the two pieces together once again and flip the valve upside-down.
In a star pattern, begin to tighten the outer nuts and bolts by hand. DO NOT USE A DRILL TO REASSEMBLE THE VALVE.
Once the screws are fully tightened, the valve is now ready to be reinstalled. Don't forget to replace and lubricate the O-ring on the Plumbing Plate also!

We hope you found the information in this article helpful. Check out the video below to follow along with us! If you have any other questions or concerns don't hesitate to reach out to us directly! Our team of industry professionals is here to assist you through every step of the way!