How to Remove the Pods of a Hayward Aquabug

The pods on the Hayward Aquabug hold the wings that determine the width of the cleaner's suction area and the shoes that propel the cleaner around the pool bottom. The pods themselves control the direction the Aquabug travels. Sometimes they crack or warp, and you will need to remove them for inspection, repair or replacement. Here's how to remove the pods.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Flat-bladed screwdriver
• Electric drill with a 1/4-inch bit socket

1. Lay the Aquabug bottom side up on a work bench and, using the electric drill with a Phillip's head bit, remove the 5 screws holding the bottom assembly to the rest of the cleaner. Set the screws aside in a coffee can or other container so they won't roll away.

2. Pull out the bottom assembly to which the pods are attached, and set the rest of the Aquabug aside.

3. Remove the wing by popping out the pod plug above the wing with a flat-bladed screwdriver, then lift the wing off the pod's hooks and set it aside.

4. Locate the screw hole in the center of the side of one of the pods. A hex-headed stainless screw holds each pod onto the shaft.

5. Insert the electric drill's ¼-inch bit holder (after removing the Phillip's head bit) into the screw hole over the hex head of the stainless steel screw and, with the drill set on reverse, back the screw all the way out, and set the screws in a coffee can or other container so they won't roll away.

6. Insert the blade of a flat-head screwdriver between the inside of the pod and the Aquabug's frame. Gently twist the blade of the screwdriver until the pod pops off the shaft. Remove the pod for inspection.

7. Repeat Steps 1 through 4 to remove the other pod.