How to Replace the Flaps of a Hayward Aquabug

The flaps on the Hayward Aquabug maintain the unit's front and rear cleaning areas. These two hard plastic assemblies are spring loaded so they can move to cover the slight irregularities of a vinyl pool's bottom as the Aquabug runs during its cleaning cycle. They are very durable components, but they do wear out eventually. It's literally a snap to remove and replace them. Here's how to do it.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Flat-bladed screwdriver
• New front flap
• New rear flap

1. Turn the Aquabug upside down on a work bench to access the front and rear flaps.

2. Recognize that the front and rear flaps are not interchangeable. Fortunately, they are easy to tell apart because the front flap is stamped "Front" and the rear flap is stamped "Rear."

3. Remove the front flap by pushing the flap down against the bottom housing and working the blade of a screwdriver between one edge of the flap and the frame. Gently twist the blade to pop the flap's nipple out of its seat in the frame.

4. Pull the old flap out of the frame.

5. Repeat Steps 3 and 4 with the rear flap.

6. Install the new front flap (making sure it is stamped "Front") by seating the spring leg against the bottom of the frame housing and angling one side of the flap so the nipple slides into the hole in the frame. Gently push the other side of the flap down and in until the nipple on that side snaps into its hole in the frame. Test for proper seating by pushing the flap down against the frame bottom. It will spring back into position at a 45-degree angle relative to the bottom if it is line up properly.

7. Repeat Steps 5 and 6 for the rear flap.