How to diagnose and repair a dolphin pool cleaner

[@WaaayPastBed]

Huge thanks! By far the best video I’ve seen for this machine. Perfect speed and detailed orientated. Awesome stuff!

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@PamTruhn]

I did it!!!! The pool store had a two month wait for all those that can't do it! Not going to say it was easy, mostly because this is all foreign to me (made a lot of mistakes) Great video ( I just needed to follow it!) I am a wee bit proud and super happy, thank you Building with Papa!

[@buildingwithpapa]

You’re welcome. thank you for your comment and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@CPOGARCIA]

Thank you for taking the time to make this video. Did everything you did, and my unit is operating flawlessly! You rock! Very much appreciated.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@michelewaters4154]

Thank you for this video. I was able to replace my swivel cord and the side foam that was pretty beaten up with ease . You made this possible

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@HighnessMichelleJef]

Thank you so much. I would not have been able to fix without this video.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@JohnSpagnuolo-r3v]

Nice job. Do you have a part number for the replacement cord?

[@buildingwithpapa]

Use this link amzn.to/3gXHhGK then type in the search bar, dolphin, pool cleaner parts. I could not find how to set up my associate link to this product so if you do this, it will take you to the dolphin pool cleaner parts and there’s several sellers were selling the cord and any other part you may need. I hope this helps you, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@paulnye1899]

Santo, This model Dolphin Supreme M5 has dual motors. One for each side. It also has a pump. I think the problem is with one of the motors. The slow low power side therefore the good side runs at full speed and the other side barely runs which makes it run in a circle. One side works and also the water pump works. Everything outside the motor housing is perfect. All plastic is in good shape and If I manually turn both sides with the plastic gear they work perfectly so it must be the motor on one side. Thought I'd let you know the latest info. Of course I will continue watching your videos. Thanks

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for letting me know. I really appreciate it.

[@paulnye1899]

Santo, Thank you for your response. I have taken the Dolphin completely apart and checked everything. The bearings are fine. I put the Dolphin on its back and turned it on and did the test. It ran the test on both side rollers and stopped as it should. The test was fine. Could it be the signals from the power unit or inside the Dolphin? Again, thank you for your answer and I give you 5 stars and thumbs up for your suggestions.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you I appreciate it but unfortunately I have not had that issue so I do not know what that is. I hope you figured it out and that you let me know. I hope you continue watching my videos and share them with your friends.

[@saracranford7327]

Ty for this video I work at a pool store and I have to fix these types of cleaner so it really helped me learn to do it

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment. I’m glad you like the video, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@powerstroke6217]

thank you so much for this. I am going to follow these steps tomorrow. I contacted support last week and haven't heard anything, but i don't want to have to send it back to them if it's so simple!

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@powerstroke6217]

@@buildingwithpapa Done! they got back to me today and said i have to pay shipping for the whole unit back to them for repair. Seems like such a waste! going to do it myself.

[@powerstroke6217]

@@buildingwithpapa thank you, the instructions worked great for my Dolphin Supreme. But i have a question. my cable has three pins (maybe because it has wifi). When i do the continuity test, i don't get any tone with any combination of the 3 pins on each end. It seems unlikely to me that all three internal wires have failed -- but does that make sense to you? I already ordered a new cable from Amazon, just curious what your thoughts on it are. If i take the bottom piece of the cable apart from the swivel mechanism, i can get continuity on all three pins on that short cord, but the upper half of the cord (with the metal 'circle' contact inside the swivel) gets no continuity between that contact circle and the pins that go into the power supply (not sure you can even do a continuity test like that, though!) Edit: Nevermind it doesn't look like it's my cable, after all :( When i check the voltage at the pins that are inside the robot itself with the blue cable plugged in and the power supply on, i get 29 volts. So i don't think this is actually a bad cable. Any other ideas?

[@305partyflix]

Thank you for the comprehensive video. Great job!

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@DavidCohen-t6p]

Thank you for doing this video. It was a huge help! My pool robot is back in busy!

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@advsols2815]

Very detailed video with audio thank you for this.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment. And if you enjoyed the video if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@StevenGustafson-tn9ye]

6:17 Thank you for this video! But, how do I remove the power cord float without breaking it?

[@buildingwithpapa]

On the float itself, it’s just plastic clips. Just be careful. Use the screwdriver and push down on one side. They will slide out. It’s a little difficult but you won’t break it. I’m glad you enjoyed the video and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@staceyjackson4571]

Changed my cable, your video was way more helpful putting back together than the video link with. The replacement! But put it in the pool, turned it on but it's not moving... lights are on the controller and let's you select but it won't start moving... what should I check next?

[@buildingwithpapa]

Did you check the rollers sometimes they get frozen I replaced everything except for the belts of which now I’m going to do that also you say you see the lights but do you see the water moving is the fan running on top? I hope this helps you, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@RussellFincher]

Excellent video, thanks! I followed all of your instructions, but none of the wheels are moving freely. I have to force them to move. Any ideas what I’m missing, or is this normal? Bearings are fine, no obstructions.

[@buildingwithpapa]

If the bearings are moving fine, then pull the wheels off and see if the rod in the middle is free if it’s not sliding or moving then that could be your problem. I haven’t seen that though. It’s usually the bearings I hope this helps you and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@royfurrow7459]

I have a dolphin sigma that runs about 20 seconds and the stops. I read it’s either the impeller or tracks/gears. I easily verified the impeller is clean but, I can’t seem to take off the side panels. Is there a preferred method or a more detailed video you have on removing the side panels?

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment. My pool cleaner is a nautilus. Yours is a sigma now I understand that the top un screws and can pull off. I don’t know about the sides, on the Nautilus. They’re just clips. They can pop right off and you may be a little concerned about pulling it because you’re worried about breaking it I understand, see if you can look inside and see if it’s just pushed in clips so it can be taken apart. I haven’t had one and I don’t know how to get into one. I looked at some other videos. No one seems to show sigma being taken apart, so I’m not sure if this helps you or not, but if you enjoyed the video and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@stephenlavallee2518]

My M400 is no longer climbing the walls and is not cleaning as well as it used to. I changed the treads, foam rollers, side bushings. Could this be an electrical issue with the power supply and cord or a problem with the pump inside the unit. ? Overall the unit seems sluggish. Thanks for your help.

[@buildingwithpapa]

If you go through my video, you’ll see how to diagnose the power supply if it hits 29 then your power supply is fine. You obviously have continuity with your cable or would not be running, so check your power supply first.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Also, if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@marcofortesdejesus6701]

Thank you for the video. Good job. I can't seem to find the exploded view for the spare parts. Any help with that? 👍

[@buildingwithpapa]

You would have to go onto the manufactures website they should have it there. I’m glad you like the video and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@jamesmerrill126]

Back from store with new motor and cable. It is reprogramming but getting stuck in corner on its side. Seems to be a balance issue. Thoughts?

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment. I’m having an issue with mine right now but it’s not a new motor and it’s sitting on its side in the corner. Also I’ll be pulling it out this weekend and trying to find out what the problem is. I will also then be posting a video if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@JohnHassett1]

Thank you for your video! I just followed your steps and my cord is bad as well. I’ll be ordering a new cord and hopefully the unit will work. 👍👍👍

[@buildingwithpapa]

OK great I’m glad this helped you and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@aGibby305]

Do you have any recommendations on a blinking red light? The bag is empty and the tracks are clear?

[@buildingwithpapa]

Which unit do you have? I’m not sure what you’re talking about. A red blinking light. Mine doesn’t have any red lights.

[@nancygaskins2813]

Do you have to reprogram the vacuum when placing back in pool? after taking it apart.

[@buildingwithpapa]

No, you do not have to reprogram the unit.

[@Thuan-ic8zc]

Thanks for the video. It's very helpful for me to troubleshoot my unit. Mine is powered up ok, impeller running but the brushes isn't rotating. Do you have any idea? Thank you!

[@buildingwithpapa]

Takeoff the police on the side that attached to the motor and see if when the impellers turning that the spindle is turning if it’s not then the gears inside your motor are broken. If that is turning then check the police that you pull off the bearings might be frozen or it’s just not connected to the spindle I hope this helps you if you can leave me a thumbs up

[@mannyiruegasiii6702]

Hey There, Thanks for the details, What were the symptoms to this cable failure?

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your question. The machine was not running so I knew that was a problem, but did not know if it was the cable or the motor so I did a process of illumination just as I showed if you enjoyed the video, please leave me a thumbs up.

[@nasirsharifi365]

Thank you. Does the motor ever go bad?

[@buildingwithpapa]

Yes they do but it’s rare. I hope this helps you, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@ericapanama503]

great video thank you !! please post the link from where you ordered your parts ?

[@buildingwithpapa]

amzn.to/3DxpX30 here is the link for the cord. If you need any other link, let me know thank you and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@paulnye1899]

I love your video. I have an a Dolphin M5 and it has worked great for 7 years but now it just moves in a small circle. I have tried everything. Do you have an explanation for this? It simply stays in a small circle. HELP!

[@buildingwithpapa]

Have you checked the rollers or the bearings on the rollers on the one side you should check both of them mine looked OK but they weren’t working great. Once I changed them it worked very well. I show all that in the video. I hope this helps you, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@dapoolboy7532]

Awesome job! Do you have a link to the parts kit with the pulleys?

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment. If you go to the links that I do have, you’ll be able to locate the pulleys. I hope you enjoy the video, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@juanmarin5690]

Hi thanks for the video. Mine doesn’t turn on I think it got water damaged… left it out on the rain. Any suggestions? Thanks again

[@buildingwithpapa]

thank you for your question did you go through the whole video and do the process that I do checking the power supply the cable all of those things let me know if you have or you have not that’s going to help me to answer your question.

[@hectorbarrios9270]

hello, I was looking for help in something else with this cleaner and came across this awesome video.. im wondering, I once picked up flock with this vacuum and I tried it last week and just can't seem to pick it up, it throws it back thru the breathing hole, is that normal, or maybe something is wrong ?

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for the question, but I am not sure what flock is? But the unit is going to run water through. It should go into the filters and then the water through the impellers so it’s possible one of your filters is open. This helped you and I’m glad you liked the video and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@mike_adams]

How long did the robot work before having to perform this maint? Just wondering how troublesome they are

[@buildingwithpapa]

I believe I had it for six years before I had any issues with it. It’s easy to maintain I really like this one. I’ve had many other pool, cleaners and this one has been the best. I hope this helps you, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@mike_adams]

I just bought a Sigma today

[@artinist]

Can you please explain what the three settings on the controller do, I have not been able to find out

[@buildingwithpapa]

I don’t know which power supply you have, but it’s usually number one is every day cleaning number two cleans every other day and number three cleans every three days. I hope this helps you and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@TommyJones49]

Not moving. Cord was bad. New cord worked fine. Now now working again power supply good 29.5 volts suspect motor are they expensive? How do you test and replace? Unit bought in 2021

[@buildingwithpapa]

I will say if you have your cord is fine you show 29.5 V for the power supply. The only thing really left is telling you we are not liars. They’re not cheap but it’s cheaper than buying a new unit. Make sure all your bearings are free and not bound up that would keep the motor from pushing it, but it does sound like it’s very possibly your motor. I hope this helps you and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@vincemanicho7394]

Very helpful thank you. This robot is very simple like you said. One thing i did notice is without the 2nd float it didnt climb properly and wehen it sinks it was falling on to ots side. Addning the 2nd float has corrected those issues

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment, i’m glad the video was helpful for you and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@vincemanicho7394]

@@buildingwithpapa i did

[@yelenaalkova7948]

Greetings, my dolphin plus robot just stopped working. It's only a year old. The power supply turns on but robot wouldn't move😢 I am not sure if it's a motor or a wire(I did leave it in the pool once overnight, maybe it damaged something on inside?

[@buildingwithpapa]

I know they say not to leave it in the pool, but I leave mine in there quite a bit. Did you go through the diagnostic like a show in the video to find out if it’s the power supply or the wire you need to do that first. I hope this helps you and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@louisedarcey5495]

We are getting 26.9 out of the right side of the power supply. Where should we put the multimeter into the right side of the power supply? They are numbered 1, 2, and 3. Thank you. Great video.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your question. If you go back to the video in about 50 seconds you’ll see where I am putting the tester into the power supply if you look at the cord you pull out there’s only two prongs you’re gonna want to put the two prongs that you have of your tester into those two holes wherever they are plugged into the power supply and you should have 29 26.9 is low. There are different power supplies if it looks like mine then it doesn’t have a fuse inside and if you’re not getting enough power out of the unit that I’m sorry to say the unit Hass to be replaced. Also while you have the cord removed check both for continuity to make sure your cord is still in good shape. I hope this helps you and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@ramon3300]

My Nautilus pool cleaner is about 1 1/2 years old and it will move and stopped. Is the motor defective? How do I test the motor?

[@conniemorris9838]

Thanks for this video. How do you remove the floats from the old cable? The video shows it already separated and I can't seem to get mine to budge. Thanks!

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for the question. if you go to the video and about the four minute mark is where I take the float off the cable, the plastic pieces has a little slot and with a screwdriver you can push them in and then separate the float. I hope this helps you and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@alexgreen7096]

Thank you very nice easy to follow instructions.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@markgeyer1]

Thanks for making this. It really helped me troubleshoot mine. Thank you!

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment, if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@juanmacias4854]

Good job! Thinking of buying the Premier as I would like to get the tile cleaned at the water line. A bit hesitant as people who have issues with the units get little to no support on warranty, but seeing how simple it is to work on, the only things that can't be fixed are the DC motors and power supply. I assume those can be purchased separately. Thanks!

[@buildingwithpapa]

Yes they can be purchased separately. I’m glad you enjoyed the video if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@juanmacias4854]

I did, take care.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you

[@lukea3072]

You just have to service your sigma after each cleaning to keep it working efficiency.

[@TimothyMagog]

Have pentair 920 prowler, runs for very short time and stops. Cannot climb side walls, continues to try then stops, also appears the back of the tracks (both sides) are slightly off the pool bottom

[@buildingwithpapa]

I have not worked on that machine, but have you looked at the tracks? Are they worn down?

[@obidulHAQQ]

I'm working on it. It seems like the motor gets water in it through the seals and creates rust inside the motor unit. Take it apart wash it woth wd 40 and replace the gaskets with better ones and maybe grease the inside of the motor to keep it moisture free. Remember, these robots are not meant to always stay under water. They are supposed to be out most of the time unless its cleaning time.

[@billc6087]

At the beginning bench test you said it 'knows it's not in the water'...how does it know it's not in the water? My unit behaves the same way both in the pool and on the bench, it runs for a short time and stops.Does it have some sort of sensor that might not be working?

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your question. I re-watched the video twice because I didn’t remember saying that it knew it was out of the water. It doesn’t have a sensor and re-watching the video. I don’t see where I made that statement. so I don’t believe there’s anything wrong with your unit. I hope this video helped you and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@obidulHAQQ]

Your motor might be jammed

[@lindseymcconnell4310]

You saved my vacuum!! Thank you!!

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@parkpalace6521]

Wow~ great video. Thanks for this. I have a question. My unit stoped working after 5-10 min in the water. Thus, I took out and leave on deck about an hour and dry. And still same thing happened. Do you think that the main black box inside has an issue or cable issue?

[@buildingwithpapa]

Did you do a diagnostic just as I show in this video that will tell you whether it is the cable or your power box. Please check that first. if you like the video, if you can give me a thumbs up

[@parkpalace6521]

@@buildingwithpapa i got the power 26.6-27. Is it okay?

[@buildingwithpapa]

Have you checked the cable? It seems the power is too low Sometimes the unit Hass to reprogram itself, and it works for a few minutes and then stops, but then starts up again.

[@parkpalace6521]

@@buildingwithpapa I got new power supply which is 29 voltage. Now it is working… thank you!!!

[@buildingwithpapa]

No problem glad to help.

[@ralphknipp3185]

I’m getting 36.2 volt reading from my lower supply. Sticker on back says 30v nominal. Any thoughts?

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your question. Yes, the voltage should only be 30 so seems like your Supply is too high, which is going to possibly burn out your unit. What does your machine do at this time?

[@ralphknipp3185]

@@buildingwithpapa it is randomly working and sometimes turning off mid cycle. My dolphin model is the DL 2014 INT which is about 15 years old. Another question I have is that when checking the continuity of my cable if I put one of my voltmeter contacts on say the white wire on one end and then touch the other contact to the white on the other end I get a beep but I also get a beep it I’m on white on one end and black on the other. Not sure if that should be happening.

[@tiredoldman5329]

Quick question. How do you do a self test on a T35? Manufacturer did not respond to the question.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your question but I have not opened up a T 35. You should be able to Google it and at least pull up the information on that unit. I hope this helps you and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@tiredoldman5329]

@@buildingwithpapa Why would it need to be opened to do a self test?

[@buildingwithpapa]

No, you don’t need to open it for self test, but I’ve never had a T3 five so I wouldn’t be the one to ask that question like I said Google it you should be able to find the information or in your owners manual. I don’t know what kind of power supply you have.

[@TheOceanrainbow]

Thanks for the video. I was able to change the foam rings and the swivel cable on my Nautilus cc plus. When I put it in the pool the unit only stays on the walls and it does clean the floor, any idea of what have I done wrong or what’s causing this? thanks

[@buildingwithpapa]

Do unit is supposed to reprogram itself once you put it in the water and start it back up I would suggest to unplug your power supply wait at least 20 seconds or more and then plug it back in the unit should move forward. Stop the move backward and stop and it should pre-program itself. I hope this helps you, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@TheOceanrainbow]

@@buildingwithpapa I dit the unplug and it did not move until I press on the power button. And with out selecting a cleaning cycle the the unit does move forward and backwards but it doesn’t stop , it goes to walls of the pool from there around all the sides, but not the floor. I will have to check with maytronics to see if they have a clue. Thanks

[@buildingwithpapa]

When you had it open, did you check the bearings?

[@darlaperry5670]

how do you tighten the gear that hooks to the motor? That is my problem. I have checked everything else in the video, but that keeps pushing out?

[@buildingwithpapa]

Which unit do you have? Do you have the Nautilus?

[@ExpF]

Hi, I noticed that you uploaded your video a year ago, so I'm not sure if you still remember the issue with the Dolphin cleaner. I have a Dolphin Advantage, and it's experiencing the same problem: it moves a bit and then stops. I've already disassembled the cover and checked the impeller. There doesn't seem to be any clogging, and it turns by hand. I also replaced the cable. Despite these checks, the problem persists, and I'm running out of ideas on what to investigate next. Do you have any suggestions or ideas on what else I should look into? Thanks.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your question. I do remember what was going on with my dolphin cleaner mine wasn’t moving at all so I went through the process that I showed you in the video and was able to diagnose that it wasn’t the power supply or the motor on the dolphin cleaner, but it was the cord itself, that is an easy fix. Just replacing the cord is simple I suggest you run through the diagnostic that I did and see if you continually get the information back from the Supply make sure it’s at the proper numbers I give you all that information in this video. I haven’t had the problem that you’re having. I hope this helps you, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@ExpF]

Thank you, and Happy New Year!

[@PAULDZIEDZIC-h6w]

cover wont go back on after it came back from a pool supply house? Seems like it drops right on by the video but not happening? Any thoughts?

[@buildingwithpapa]

Is the cable through the slot on the top properly? They gave it back to you without it staying on then I would take it back to them. I hope this helps you, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@nelis99]

Good video. I used this to check my power cable. Though it doesn't seem to be the problem. My cleaner, at power up, turns on, moves forward, impeller turns on, stops, moves backwards, then just stops and does nothing. You mentioned in the video it is the 'programming' phase. I guess mine is stuck in that phase and never gets going.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Did you check the power supply if it’s reading 29? Also, just leave it on for a little bit. Check it in the morning and see if it is moved. Thank you for your comment if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@cutoats]

I had the same problem and just replaced the blue power cord, mine was kind of jacked up looking with some really pliable kinks so I figured it was a short that every once in a while would be ok but when it started moving it would short again. Seems to be working fine now.

[@andrewdigregorio5799]

Here's a question... i have a triton ps plus and its currently seemingly working fine (runs all over the pool), but it doesnt seem to be picking up anything. Stupid question, but is there supposed to be suction coming from the rectangular hole in the bottom of the unit? Ive gone in the water with it while its running and while the wheels are spinning, i dont feel suction out of that hole.

[@buildingwithpapa]

I don’t have a triton, but from what I see and what I have read, it is supposed to have suction to pick up the debris. I hope you’ve enjoyed the video, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@andrewdigregorio5799]

@@buildingwithpapa done. my cord is slightly frayed. It looks still,intact but the rubber is eroding…badly in 1 spot, do you think that could be the cause? I’d hate to spend 300mon a new cord only to find something else is wrong

[@foluboarday7892]

Mine does the initial forward and backward move and nothing more. The impeller does not work at all. I tested the impeller motors directly with 29V and they rotate smoothly. I did all the electrical tests and putting all back together and same issue. Any idea what could be the issue?

[@buildingwithpapa]

Did you make sure you had 29 V coming out of the power supply?

[@philliphurst3752]

How do you know if the motor is bad. Mine runs a minute or two and stops. Then the power supply shuts down and want come back on. I unplug it wait a few seconds plug it back in it will come back on and move a little and shut down. I took the motor/ pump out and plugged power supply in. It runs for a few seconds and stops. The impeller run good. The drive motor seems to be very rough and tight. I know it will only run a few seconds when not submerged, or so I read. Question is what’s next? Is it the motor? Please respond ASAP I really need to get it working. Pool is looking bad and back will not let me revert back to vacuuming the conventional way. Thanks, Phillip Hurst

[@buildingwithpapa]

Did you do the test with the multimeter on your power supply it needs to read 29 if it doesn’t then it is your power supply that you’re having a problem with. Let me know if that helps. Thank you for your question and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@DanCarnefix]

Great video. It was very helpful.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@duanehall723]

Great video, thanks for the information.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment. I’m glad you enjoyed the video if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@duanehall723]

@@buildingwithpapa Thanks again, I was able to put two units back in service. Power supplies, one dead and one intermittent.

[@joedaquila2646]

Thanks for the great video I had the same exact problem, going to buy me a new power supply cable!

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thanks for the comment and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@ChuckMehle]

The M400 version is incredibly similar and this video applies to that one as well.

[@buildingwithpapa]

I’m glad you like the video and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@alvaromendoza04]

I have a broken impeller that would make the unit stop working?

[@buildingwithpapa]

Is the motor running? Or is it just the propeller broken?

[@AnaGonzalez-z5z]

How do u change the speed on it

[@buildingwithpapa]

Mine doesn’t have a speed control. Which version do you have

[@ArtDonna84]

Santa, I didn’t see how he took the top and sides off completely in the video. It went from you taking out the power cable and the screws and then suddenly I saw you with the open sides. They just pop off with a screwdriver to takeoff the top. Thank you enjoyed the video

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment. Along the side you just pull the sides out there’s some tabs there and then the top lifts off I’ll have to watch the video and see what happened I did show all of it I’m going to make another video on this I bought some other parts that I didn’t have before I’m hoping to put that up this weekend. I’m glad you like the video and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@vomhausberggermanshepherds8792]

Same, that part that was fast forwarded was the part I needed to learn about. Thank you!

[@MikeBernard-y9t]

Can you not check for voltage at the end of the cable?

[@buildingwithpapa]

Yes, as long as your cable is working fine if you don’t get voltage, then go back to the power supply and then also check your cable for continuity. I hope this helps you and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@MikeBernard-y9t]

@@buildingwithpapaI’ve got voltage at the head controller & at the end of the cable inside the robot so I’m guessing my robot itself is bad? I replaced the cable & it ran about 15 minutes and died. My question is if you’ve got voltage then you’ve got continuity correct?

[@johnbethel9725]

OK do not have 29 dc out of the power supply any suggestions

[@buildingwithpapa]

First of all thank you for your comment.

[@buildingwithpapa]

It all depends on the power supply that you have if it’s an older version they have a fuse inside that can be replaced. If it’s the newer version you need to make sure you have 120 coming out of the outlet and also out of the other end of the plug that goes into the power supply. If you have that and you have lights on on your power supply but you’re not getting 29 out of the plug on the right side of the power supply then you will need to take out that plug in test the bear wires be careful because you need the power to be on when you do this if you were getting 29 at the raw wires then you just need to replace that plug if you’re not getting 29 at the raw wires then you need to replace the whole power supply. I hope this helps you and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@quadcell8792]

The cable was very hard to pull out. Does the factory have a cable puller? I had to rig a board and pipe to to get the cable to plug out. My connectors were green and one broke off from corrosion. $300 for new cable and still doesn’t work. Most likely motor now.

[@Bender2497]

When I activate my dolphin, it starts up for 15 seconds then stops, impeller no longer spins. Would that still be a cable issue?

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your question. What cable do you have? Is it a non-tangle does it have a swivel? If so, it could be part of that but usually if it’s a non-swivel type it would not be the cable I hope this helps you and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@Bender2497]

@@buildingwithpapa no swivel, at least I don't think it does. It looks like the exact same one you have based on when I removed the impeller cover for cleaning.

[@johnrichardson6142]

Great video. very informative. Thank you!

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment, and if you can leave me a thumbs up

[@JM-zb8ro]

Do you think i can convert my nautilus plus to the wifi version?

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your question. I don’t know the answer to that, but I would definitely like to know because mine is not Wi-Fi version either if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@yovanydiaz8067]

What about if the power supply end is 24.4 ?

[@buildingwithpapa]

That’s a little low, but check your cord for Continuity. See if your cord is OK. What is your unit doing?

[@chavezone]

Great video but you left short of testing everything, I need to know if my motor is bad, how do I check if my motor is bad, my cable was bad I replaced it but it still doesn't run still, base unit and cable check out good, motor shows 1.865ohms on my meter

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment. I will find out how to check out the motor. I’m not sure myself I plan on working on one this weekend. I hopefully I’m able to do a video. I hope you enjoy this video, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@georgechavez3371]

@@buildingwithpapa awesome! looking forward to it, I am pretty sure its the motor, I Ohm'd it and I get 1.869 which in my understanding is good. the new cable is good and the computer sends 29v to the motor, I dont want to s[end $300 on a new motor if its still good but does nothing when turned on

[@AnnSmith-od2pv]

I have the remote controlled cleaner. I don't really use the remote but let it clean on automanic. However, when starting up for Spring I find it will not run automatically and only will move by remote control and will not switch back to auto. What am I doing wrong?

[@AnnSmith-od2pv]

It is a Dolphin Plus cleaner.

[@buildingwithpapa]

I don’t have one with a remote, so I’m unsure about that but thank you for your question and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@terryhanninen9786]

I changed my cord but I can’t get the white cap to screw onto the threads

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your question. I know it will screw back on you. Just have to be patient and work with it until you get it to connect properly look at it and just make sure that a Square with the rest of the threads and not frustrating it and you should not have any problem. I hope this helps, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@jasontundidor1948]

What if the beeped when I checked the cabke what's the next step to check if it's not the cable

[@buildingwithpapa]

Did you check your power supply? If your power supply is good, and your cable is good, it may be your motor.. I hope this helps you, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@timhenderson4135]

You covered everything except that. We can get it to start again if we push the hose tighter in at that white piece on the hose

[@buildingwithpapa]

Yes, the white piece on the hose is sealed so if it’s able to run when you’re pushing, it means there’s a loose connection inside. I don’t recommend taking that apart. It needs a sealant to seal it properly. I hope this helps in if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@LandingZoneHome]

Great video. Very helpful.

[@buildingwithpapa]

I’m glad you like the video and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@KennyandFred]

Great video! It was very helpful!

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@johnwolfe7613]

O thank’s helped me 100% but still haven’t got the power cable out of the motor.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment just go back through the video. It’s a little tough to get that cable out but it will come out. Make sure you get that little screw out go back through the video and you’ll see what I’m talking about. I hope this helps you, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@PamTruhn]

My power supply is measuring 27.4, not 29.Does that indicate it is bad?

[@buildingwithpapa]

Have you checked everything else yet? Check your cord. If it’s OK your power supply is on the low end. Let me know what your unit is doing if anything at all.

[@PamTruhn]

@@buildingwithpapa The power light comes on when plugged in. I did the continuity test, and like yours, one side I received a tone, the other I did not

[@buildingwithpapa]

OK so I would purchase the cable. It is in the description that should do it. Let me know how it works out and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@PamTruhn]

@@buildingwithpapa So I purchased the cable, hooked it up, and it looks like it's working. Except!!!! getting the old float off is a struggle, I did get it off and the clip on yours can be removed and placed on the new cable, mine cannot. Any suggestions? I tried to attach a picture but don't see an option

[@PamTruhn]

I got it off, it is like a zip-tie so it was a struggle, but I got it

[@tkkak1932]

How do check the motor with the multimeter

[@buildingwithpapa]

Well, if you’ve checked the power supply and you get 29 then your power supply is good if you’ve checked your cable and you get continuity on both wires, then your cable is good and if your motor is not running, then I would say your motor is bad it needs to be replaced. I hope this helps you, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@timhenderson4135]

I think my problem is the white connector between float and the rest of the tubing

[@buildingwithpapa]

Yes, that is sealed at the manufacturer. The connection is inside. Apparently yours is loose. I’ve never taken it apart, so I don’t know how it is actually sealed. I hope this helps you if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@jcb615]

Thanks for the video. I had this same issue and discovered a bad cable.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@jcb615]

@@buildingwithpapa Done!

[@patriciabush5686]

This helped me

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@Lumbermens1986]

My dolphin starts and then stops.. I've taken it apart to remove debris and put it back together and it does the same thing. Any ideas on what's wrong or how I can fix it?

[@buildingwithpapa]

It’s supposed to be reprogramming itself that should move forward and then backward then stop and then start up again once it reprogrammed itself and if you see the water moving on top that means the motor is running also but it could be something in the motor. it is hard to tell without seeing. I hope this helps you, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@TheOceanrainbow]

Hi, did you solve the problem with your dolphin? My is doing the same it works only for 5-10min and then it stops.

[@MichaelOliveira-l1n]

Hi there. Multimeter test on power supply is fine, replaced the cable and have continuity, tested cable connected to power supply and got -29.00 - good. Replaced the motor but cleaner not moving. Help!

[@buildingwithpapa]

Did you check the one roller it has a metal end on it that has to be attached to the motor itself please check that if that’s connected. And if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@MichaelOliveira-l1n]

@@buildingwithpapa Thanks Santo but that was not the issue. Sent the whole cleaner back to Maytronics as they believe the new motor is defective.

[@jackiedickinson8666]

Thanks kindly, works great now!

[@buildingwithpapa]

I’m glad you like the video and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@MaxScerra]

Hello Papa 🙂, thank you for your video. I did follow your testing and in my case cable is perfect. I suspect it is the electrical engine. When I give the start command it does do nothing. I just hear a small noise inside the motor like something is wanting to move, but then it stops, nothing happens and I get the message on my App "robot not responding". Everything started with the robot starting the impeller and not moving and then even the impeller do not start. Everything is clean and free of any debris. So basically, the robot does do nothing. Do you have any suggestions? Maytronics would not help, even if in warranty, because I brought the robot in the Dominican Republic! They will even not tell me how to diagnostic it as the claim not to be responsible, because outside the US and they will not tell me nothing even if I declared to them the I will take any responsibility! Pease help if you can.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Well, as long as you’ve checked the power supply and it’s reading 29 and you check the Continuity with the cable then the next step is one of the rollers attaches to the motor and has bearings make sure that’s not frozen if that moves freely, then more than likely it’s the motor. I hope this helps you, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@MaxScerra]

@@buildingwithpapa not the case ad I removed the motor block and try to operate it to see, but nothing is turning

[@jayli1064]

Very helpful. Turns out my power supply is bad. The output is only 5volts DC and it is supposed to be 29. I contacted Maytronics and crossing my finger that they can send me a new power supply

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment and if you enjoyed the video, if you can, leave me a thumbs up.

[@dariush57]

my unit goes few feet and in circle and then stop what is wrong with it

[@buildingwithpapa]

It is hard to say unless you’ve gone through the diagnostics like I show to find out if your supply is putting out the proper voltage if you cord tones out then that eliminates your cord then you have to go through other steps, but I don’t know what unit you have Let me know the unit that you have and maybe I can help you

[@juanrpollo]

I made the mistake of following your instructions and checking continuity between source and unit, not realiziNg that the swivel also has contacts. The swivel cable has spring loaded pins and if the springs fail, there is no contact. A replacement swivel cable costs a fraction of the entire cable.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Sorry to hear that, but I did not have a swivel cable. Mine was stationary with the swivel, you would have to disconnect that part and then do your continuity test sorry for the confusion. I’ve had good response with this video and has helped many people and no way that I intend to mislead anybody. I hope you still enjoyed the video and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@juanrpollo]

No problem, turns out my old swivel was fine, I discovered it when the replacement cable failed and upon testing it was the swivel which turned on and off. I just thought that people should be aware and maybe sabe some bucks by replacing just the swivel.

[@EODHammer]

Excellent! Thanks!

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@nancygaskins2813]

Very helpful thanks

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@jaxon7771]

I have bubbles that come out of the top of the unit. Then it stops and then the lights on the remote are lit up

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your question. It is supposed to do that You just have to put it on the cycle that you want and it will continue to run.

[@la5150hi-lophoto]

Best video

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@onepoket]

I have the CC plus and noticed it has 3 conductors inside the unit. Has anyone replaced the 2 conductor with a 3 conductor cable? I was thinking using 3 conductor and replacing the power supply could basically upgrade mine from a plus to plus/wifi or supreme functions. I want to either get automation mode or wifi so I can do more complex schedules than every 24h, 48h, 72h etc. Also would make it power outage immune. I just wanted to add some more detail on using the 3 conductor cable. I purchased one and it worked fine, but it was cheap chinese brand and failed after 1 day. The replacement from the same company failed again. The cheap ones fail at the white swivel with some combination of internal pins not making contact with the swivel disc or the cable pulling out slightly from the swivel unit. Anyway, spend the extra $30 and get a genuine maytronics/oem replacement and you will probably have no problems.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment I hope you enjoyed the video, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@tmossberg]

The swivels are going to fail after about two years I didn’t want to spend another $200 on this thing after replacing all the other parts so I took the swivel off and wired directly For $200 I want tangled the cord when I pull it out of the pool

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for the information. I’m glad that works for you and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@This-Tranquility]

Handy man 💪🏾

[@TashaHardy-je1qt]

Our cleaner runs forward then back a few times then stops all together and shuts off.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Did you follow the video and do the complete diagnostic? The power supply is very important whether it has the correct voltage coming out.

[@madmaxusa1]

Thanks!

[@madmaxusa1]

Thank you for this helpful video. One of the rubber tracks on my Dolphin derailed, probably due to my ill-advised habit of tossing the Dolphin into the pool from a standing position instead of the recommended practice of gently lowering it into the pool. I was surprised at how easy it was to do the repair thanks to your video.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you I’m glad it was helpful if you can leave me a thumbs up

[@cutoats]

Helpful video but in my opinion under stated what a pain some steps might end up being. I replaced my cord and pulling out that old plug from the vacuum unit wasn’t just a matter of wiggling it out. I had to use vice grips and really yank it out. Also removing those floats. You just edited out whatever you did to get them a part. That was also a total pain and unless you have some sort of trick that you decided to leave out I ended up having to break two tabs by jamming them in with a screwdriver than I could finally take it apart. Not that the video wasn’t super helpful but the simplicity was misleading in my case anyway.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment. I’m sorry that you had such a hard time. The only item I had a hard time with was getting the wire out of the housing, and everything else was just as it is in the video the floats came out. Simply there was no tab to release I’m not sure which model you have but mine just had some grooves that the floats slid in so maybe you have a different model than what I’m using, but I didn’t edit anything out. Everything was as simple as it shows in the video for me. I hope the video helped you, and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@robjaron8422]

Still does not work! Replaced all components : guide wheels, pulley wheels, treads, and new wire cable. Motor engages and starts. But device fails to move through a cleaning cycle. Fan is spinning/water is moving but device will not crawl. :( Alot of money to purchase and now repair parts cost. Only 3 years old.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment. Did you do a diagnostic like I show on the video this way if it is a cable you just replace the cable I do recommend replacing the rollers and the pads because they do wear out. I hope this helps you and if you can leave me a thumbs up.

[@Vaporlass]

After only 2 years, I need to replace the cable!?! Amazon reviews state you one you linked to does not have FLOATS and their machine flips on its back. Reviews also state: Update after one year: - cable deteriorated such that the rubber jacket/coating rubs off by hand (and leaves a mess all over the pool) - a kink developed in the middle (anti-kink swivel eh???) such that the rubber jacket is compromised and exposed the internal wires - the buoyancy issues below persisted - the unit will no longer run A comment below states you do NOT have to buy the entire cord, you can just buy a replacement swivel cable? 🤷‍♀️ Will NEVER purchase Maytronic products again. For the price, I have had to replace the far too many parts on this machine. You cannot find good quality in products anymore.

[@buildingwithpapa]

Thank you for your comment. I showed to take the floats off my existing cable and put it on the new cable. I also show how to diagnose it whether it is the cable or not so you’re not replacing all the parts the moving parts that deteriorate just because I had them out, I hope this helps you and if you can leave me a thumbs up.