Removing the Eyeball from the Return of your Above Ground Pool

[@erinmeals7370]

Thanks so much for this I was getting sooo frustrated trying to figure out why my fountain thread was the same as the inside thread.. Now I know to remove 3 pieces instead of two!!!

[@ckcgk7662]

I just wrote off getting the fountain I wanted because of the threading issue, thanks to your video I can now get one. thank you.

[@harvest9851]

Your videos have been so helpful to us! Thank you!

[@cwsosby]

Great information!! Do I have to loosen that outside ring to adjust they eyeball direction?

[@abovegroundpros]

Yes

[@patrick_McD]

OMG thank you so much! I was racking my brain!! They should just make a cap (in lieu of the eyeball) instead of having to remove this piece. Again, thanks so much!! I was losing it.

[@OneOak23]

Perfect video wasn’t sure that piece was removable!

[@onhiranch9101]

Hands down you have the most helpful videos on above ground pools we have seen! Thanks for making them. We've never had a pool and could figure out how to get the male connector out for the eyeball to connect our polaris and were afraid to break it free in case it might be holding the outside pipe to the pool. Have a blessed day! :*)

[@alphacentauri2506]

Thank you for this video-they also make a plastic or metal key that fits into that inner part cylinder valve and it unscrews it with ease

[@jackbquick123]

I just bought a new 24 inch sand filter and it really has a capability to push a lot of water,, does the eyeball being a smaller hole ( 1 inch) I think,, restrict or make more pressure ? I know in plumbing or hydrolics when you reduce the hose or pipe it creates more pressure. Is it better to keep eyeball in or place bigger elbow or 90 there to create better flow? Thank you for all your helpful videos.

[@juans3728]

That segment really helped me a lot thank you. We still have the original pool and the parts they replaced due to liner failure after 30 yrs. were not the same for closing. Now there are 3 pieces to remove, before there was only 1 which was the eye to screw a plug in place. Again thank you this was very helpful.

[@melisagilbert4486]

WONDERFUL! thank you for you videos!!! saved me a lot of headache and phone calls!!! Thanks so much!

[@NancyYott]

Omg ! This explains it so clearly! What a life saver ! Thanks!

[@CHERYLWAITERS]

You get two thumbs up for this video. I was going to return the fountain! You saved summer fun for the kids.

[@AngelHernandez-oh8xb]

Thank you for the video...Polaris was telling me I need to buy an adapter in order for my vac-sweep to work. Damm!!

[@vjfromnj]

Thanks for the vid… was very useful to break my eyeball free.

[@willisshields647]

My outlet eye ball is different from yours I have intex pool Altra I can't get eyeball apart I don't think it does...is their a adapter I can buy

[@hdwood76fxe]

There is a tool available for removing that eyeball base. Basically just a flat piece of metal that insert into those little slots inside. Amazon has some.

[@alejandrov932]

Link to the tool please?

[@joreaboxer]

I have a summer wave inflatable top 15 x 10 and I’m trying to hook up air raider sprinkler but my return does not look like that any advice?

[@kurlee]

Above Ground Pros, Hi there, love the videos, theyre so helpful. So I have a Splash Superpool (vinyl 10,000 gallon) and the return inlet fitting is cracked and leaking. Whats the best way to replace it? Ive read that you cant take the water out so Im wondering if theres even a way to do that job. Thanks

[@abovegroundpros]

+Liquor “N” .Poker No, you can take the water out of this type of pool with no worries. Just drain it below the return and replace it and fill it back up.

[@pmprs11]

Hey above ground pros any suggestion besides the pliers? I do have a Hayward key that fits in those two notches on the inside thread but can't get the leverage to break it

[@evilemil4]

some how my kids were messing with the return and popped the eyeball out. Now the eyeball won't stay in place when I put it back in. It just keeps popping out when I turn the pump on. Any advise would be greatly appreciated, please! Thanks

[@abovegroundpros]

I wouldn't know what's going on without investigating it myself. You might just need to investigate it and see what they might have done to it or else purchase a new one to replace it.

[@ashleyoutz1111]

Which was should the eye be pointing for the return water? Mine creates a little whirlpool at the surface where it comes out. I feel like it hinders my skimmer from pulling in dirt.

[@abovegroundpros]

45° pointed towards the floor away from the skimmer

[@johns9779]

My pool supply store told me the complete opposite of this. Ugh

[@deniseday04]

Thank you now I finally can install my new Polaris 65.

[@jonlawson1304]

Thank you. Was about to hammer and chisel this thing out!

[@kimwilliams6998]

Do you take all that off to put a plug in?

[@abovegroundpros]

Yes

[@Kjmummy06]

Above Ground Pros What do i do if my Intex filter PSI gauge isn't working moving from zero when its on {Filter Mode}? #2 : My pump really isn't strong enough for my large rectangle index pool, Do i need to buy a larger filter or how can i add something to make stronger ? # 3: Whats the best type of vacuum for an Intex pool,Because last year i bought an Hayward Bug and the pump wasn't strong enough to move it, Nothing worked for vacuuming out the bottom of the pool and the automatic ones are to costly. PLEASE HELP ..Thank you for your time ..

[@abovegroundpros]

Stephanie English You sound like you are on the right track. The filter system that comes with the pool isn't that good and won't run any auto-cleaners. Your best bet is to upgrade the pump and filter and everything will then work.

[@glennr2010]

I have to adjust mine frequently so they don't mess with my pool cleaner. Currently I have to use a large pair of channel locks to loosen / remove the locking ring since it doesn't turn easily. Is there any trick, like using teflon tape or gasket grease, to keep the locking ring loose enough that I can turn it by hand?

[@abovegroundpros]

+Glenn Roe not that I personally know of. But you don't need to make it really tight to hold the eyeball.

[@iantuttle7393]

I have an above ground pool. Around 16,000 gallons. It has only one return line. Would it be over kill to install another return on the opposite side of the pool?

[@abovegroundpros]

Adding another return in an above ground with this water capacity doesn't really serve a higher purpose. Also you would want to boost up a bigger pump for that. I wont worry about it.

[@joycegorski9403]

Thank you so much this so helpful!

[@pmprs11]

I have the key to remove the inner thread but it won't budge any idea how to turn it when it doesn't want to go. It's installed in the pool already with water line above it. Had to fix the filter and couldn't plug the jet

[@joshuaviele622]

Having the opposite problem, it all comes out of the return but can’t separate the eyeball into its three separate parts. Any suggestions?

[@abovegroundpros]

You're really just have to try and muscle it apart or you could always buy a new one for cheap from Amazon.

[@joshuaviele622]

Above Ground Pros lol, that’s exactly what I did when I saw you could buy five on Amazon for like $10

[@jaymelendez1903]

Hello there...will this work on any return with an eye ball assembly? Not sure my intex is like that... Which return/water jet was used for this demonstration? Thank you in advance!

[@abovegroundpros]

Intex has a couple different types of eyeballs but most of them can be adjusted. The eyeball used in this video is more for your traditional metal wall pool

[@jhamm6908]

Exactly what I was looking for!! Thank you!

[@billcunningham98]

What do u call that 3rd piece that gets stuck a lot.?? Need to replace it. Or do I buy the whole eyeball assembly???

[@abovegroundpros]

I don't believe they sell it that way so you'll probably have to buy the whole eyeball assembly

[@billcunningham98]

Thx

[@akoww1000]

The eyeball for my return is one pice. I got a part to change the eyeball with a new vacuum but can't use it because it's only the eyeball and it didn't come with an outside cover to hold it in place

[@akoww1000]

just to make it clear. when you take off the outside cover and then the eyeball that directs the water is one pice on mine

[@stephenmoore6300]

Just shooting this out in case you or someone can help me. I'm having a problem my eyeball which is in fact a 2 piece not 3. My Locking ring broke and the locking rings on these 3 piece assemblies do not fit. I have a 21ft above ground. There's a Aquarite salt system installed just before the inlet from the outside. The inlet into the pool is threaded inside and out and the eyeball locking ring goes on the outside of this fitting. The Inside thread would accept the piece that gets stuck in the video above but then won't take it's locking ring as it is too far inside. My local pool place says I need to replace the whole thing which I'd prefer to avoid for only a broken locking ring.

[@stephenmoore6300]

Anyone know where I can find a locking ring or some sort of extender for the 3 piece eyeball shown in the video?

[@dmeyer6994]

Great video

[@abovegroundpros]

Thanks!

[@robinraben7599]

Thank you exactly what I needed to know!!

[@chuckpeters9644]

Hello.. been having a problem with that little piece on the inside.. it seems to be stuck.. The entire assembly turns.. even the outside. So i quit working with it.. I was afraid I was going to break something. This eyeball assembly came with the hayward kit SP1091WM (skimmer and all).. it was just installed a few weeks ago when we did a new liner.. do you think maybe the installer glued it in? .. I noticed (in your vid) looks like a couple of notches on the inside.. is there a removal tool. Any suggestions on how to get this stubborn thing out? I want to install a fountain.

[@abovegroundpros]

There is no tool for it, but maybe you could wedge something in the slots to get it out. It is possible that there may be glue on it (it shouldn't be that hard to get out) but I would call the installer to find out before you muscle it off.

[@juans3728]

I noticed that the third piece that if stuck can be removed with pliers and a towel as to not damage the threads, well can you tell me is there a key that can be inserted because i noticed two cut outs in that third piece that look as though a plastic key would be inserted and you would turn counter clockwise to loosen. I'am i correct or am i seeing thing?

[@abovegroundpros]

I'm not sure who carries the part you are looking for, but frankly I think the towel and pliers trick is the better way to go.

[@samanthakirby9196]

Can this be done if it is under water or should I drain it?

[@abovegroundpros]

Can be done underwater

[@thakorpatel2868]

i have pushin pool eyeball jet need to pull old one what easyway to

[@carolynluker4382]

Do you cut your pump off while doing this?

[@abovegroundpros]

Yes

[@trymo9141]

What it called? The one holding the eyeball? From Philippines

[@abovegroundpros]

The eyeball ring

[@tif321dc]

Instead of putting pliers on the plastic threads. Look inside you will see two slots. Those are used for tightening and loosening the inside piece.

[@jacobalfaro8982]

This video is a God send 🙌 🙏🏽 ❤

[@arthurbrion160]

the pull up n twist valve on the adapters for my above ground intex pool. wont pull up n turn. i closed them to clean the pump, but cant get it back up n turn it. plz help. the skimmer side is working fine it is the out put side that wont work. what could be the problem?

[@abovegroundpros]

I haven't yet heard of this. Maybe you should contact Intex and see what they say. It may just need to be replaced.

[@LubaLuba1]

I have little sand near one of the returns only and not at the other returns but the one also blows bubbles too only one that does that too.

[@sonniechamberlain9522]

What if that last piece is so tight that the threads it won't unscrew

[@willisshields647]

I have same problem did you figure it out?

[@megstradley2952]

I need help fixing my return leak while my 24foot intex metal frame pool is full of water... help!!!!:/

[@abovegroundpros]

Usually the problem stems from either the return not being tight enough or the gaskets not on properly. Check this first. If this is fine then I would call a pool guy out to check it out.

[@Fist2thenecK]

are these returns and "eyeballs" on all above ground pools the same diameter threads?

[@abovegroundpros]

On all metal wall pools yes

[@kimberlyevans3813]

Same question

[@jamesrigsby8460]

I used a plastic tool remover and it still won't come out it just bends

[@nunabizness]

They make a real cool fountain cleaner called Jett Flo that they sell on amazon that screws into your return that works great.

[@GetAlong2GetAlong]

Well done 👍

[@praingmantis1]

The retaining ring over the eye piece will not come off the entire flow vent. They are both plastic. Tried lube and a vice and with more pressure I'm sure they will break. In the video he simply unscrews the retaining ring. Fat chance! Mine is stuck in place. Guess I have to order a new one to work with the new eye piece directional flow I just bought today.

[@willisshields647]

Did you figure it out.? I have same issue

[@praingmantis1]

@@willisshields647 I have ordered another. Still waiting for it to arrive. But I could not get the original one open.

[@praingmantis1]

@@willisshields647 I received the new one and it won't come apart either. I give up.

[@willisshields647]

I bet you I spent 3 hours on that the other day I got some different PVC pipe fittings and finally was able to adapt it over top of my vacuum hose connection it works

[@FreeStyle786]

Not that everyone would have access to one BUT you could of at least mentioned the inside eyeball piece that gets stuck has notches cut out for a 'key' tool that's makes this job much easier.

[@miguelbarker2544]

What if you can't get the eyeball seat loose? Im having the hardest time to get it to even budge. I've used the removal tool and nothing would move. Any suggestions?

[@abovegroundpros]

+Miguel Barker If its a return just like the one in the video then it probably needs to just be broken free. I use a pair of pliers for that and once its broke free it screws right off. Make sure it the same one as in the video or it may be one that doesn't come off.

[@miguelbarker2544]

I appreciate your quick response. I unfortunately have tried to get it free, but it will NOT budge. It looks exactly like that and I have tried the tool, but it just seems old and stuck. I've tried pliers, and it just starts taking chunks of the seat away.

[@abovegroundpros]

+Miguel Barker Maybe your best bet is to break it out or try again with the pliers and if it ruins the eyeball, you can always get another one to replace it that won't be old and get stuck.

[@miguelbarker2544]

Thanks, I will try it. I might try it from a different angle as well.

[@milo74156]

Miguel Barker did did you get it out and can you tell me how

[@dieselxdan]

Damn this is good info.

[@lisapan9387]

TY gonna try again tomorrow putting sprinklers

[@daniellebousquet4824]

What do you do when you can't even get the first ring out?

[@abovegroundpros]

May have to use a pair of pliers.

[@tjocus43]

Danielle Bousquet You'll probably just have to shut your pool down for the summer, lol.. I didn't even realize you could take the eyeball off.

[@lance16O1]

I put a crowbar on the inside of those flats and turn it with that. Just be mindful of which way to turn, and the amount of torque you have with something that large.

[@gilbertdoubleday5340]

Bad advice. If you tighten down the "eyeball ring" too tight it will seize to the wall fitting. And you will not be able to free the eyeball to adjust it. Better to leave everything loose.

[@scottschwartz9330]

Thank you!!!

[@polarbear4612]

Mine does not look like this. There is no outer ring to unscrew

[@Welcome2MyUTubeCasa]

Thanks for the help !!

[@edmorrison9525]

1 in putty knife fits or haword makes a tool

[@CrazyQs]

ty saved me

[@timothylisenko798]

I can not get mine off smh

[@teresalifer4897]

Thank you .

[@seven73ify]

Thanks!

[@mdinatale12]

Ive been trying to get it loose all day no luck

[@willisshields647]

Did you figure it out? Same issue

[@dmt66]

Thank you

[@robbiebell516]

I asked how to remove the inside plug not an eyeball

[@juans3728]

Wrong about how he is explaining to removing the plastic that you connect the eye ball to, you don't use pliers because you can damage, there is a plastic tool, if you look inside the plastic there are two carved out lines and this is used for that tool which acts like a screw driver head to remove the eyeball base. Check with your reputable pool dealer they will explain.

[@tomweir3857]

Had to remove my eyeball. Restricted flow of water way to much. Will figure another way to push return water in a circular motion

[@shanewalters7821]

I have to dislike this video because you should not be telling people to use pliers when there is a cheap tool that fits into the two slots inside of that ring.

[@FU420B]

Aye bawl

[@whitemok]

Great video