Pool Filter Clamp Won't Go On or Come Off? Solution - Install a New Clamp Assembly

One of the most frustrating things that can happen when you are taking apart your filter to clean it is the clamp is stuck on the filter. This happens often with the spring barrel nut type clamps commonly found on the Pentair FNS Plus, Clean & clear Plus and the Quad D.E. Filters. I also see this issue with the Hayward filter clamps but more so on the Pentair filters. The only real solution is to install a new Clamp Assembly on the filter.



Basically the threaded part of the clamp gets stripped by a nut that is put on a little off center. This is pretty much unavoidable as the filter clamp starts to get old and the threads will begin to strip over time. There is no way to safely repair this as the filter is under tremendous pressure and if the clamp breaks the filter tank top will explode off. If you are unlucky and standing next to it when that happens, the results can be fatal. So as soon as you discover that the clamp is not going back on without a Herculean effort as you tighten the nut or if the nut seems to miss some threads as you tighten it, replace the clamp immediately.

Pentair uses the same Clamp Assembly on all three of it's most popular filters and I find that this clamp in particular on the older filters is prone to wear out. If you need to purchase a new one for your filter this clamp fits all FNS Plus, Clean and Clear Plus and Quad D.E. Filters:

Pentair 190003 Tension Control Clamp Kit Replacement Pool and Spa Filter: http://amzn.to/2j8bG7e

Hayward makes a few different models. If you have a Perflex D.E. filter this is the one you probably need:

Hayward ECX5000C Clamp Assembly with Spring: http://amzn.to/2AqqXVb

For other Hayward filter try this clamp: http://amzn.to/2zshIFX
These clamps are filter specific so you must get the exact replacement clamp for your filter. Some of the older filters may have discontinued making the clamp so you might have to bring your old one into a local pool store and see of they can match it up. Sometimes you can also get away with just replacing the Spring Barrel and Nut and get one or two more uses out of the clamp. But generally if you are having a hard time tightening it down you need to just replace it.
The best way to prevent the threads on the clamp from stripping is to use the Multi-Tork Socket tool to get the nut on and off the filter. I find that as I am using these socket tools that the nut goes on very smoothly and evenly. I think the threads will strip more easily if you are using a standard hand wrench to tighten it or loosen it. I suggest getting the Multi-Tork Sockets to prevent the clamp from being damaged when you take your filter apart to clean it.

You can learn more about the Multi-Tork Socket Sets here:


Podcast with Multi-Tork owner Tal Millican: https://youtu.be/044L5heOjDk
Multi-Tork Filter Socket Tool - For Faster Filter Cleaning: http://youtu.be/aI-rPOSMv-k
Multi-Tork MT-100 Double-Hex Anodized Aluminum Pool Socket: https://youtu.be/1cRFHEddYVM
Multi-Tork MT-100H Socket for Hayward Filters & Harmsco Filters: https://youtu.be/wkeFUfeMSk8
Multi-Tork MTJ-770 Filter Socket for Faster Cleaning of Sta-Rite System 3 Filters: https://youtu.be/hO1x3S1EMio
Button Hook - Filter Drain Plug Removal Tool & More!: http://youtu.be/JoGVpbSIAkI
KLORKINATOR. Klick. Twist. Done. - Lid & Cover Removal Tool: http://youtu.be/esP1CrYvRNE

For more videos covering D.E. Pool Filters you can watch this Playlist:

D.E. Filter cleaning, Backwashing & Tips:
















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