Reliable Multiport Valve Replacement for Smooth Pool Filtration

Product Description

Give your multiport valve a professional refresh with the EARTHeCO MPV Top Kit (Black). Designed to replace a worn or leaking valve top, this kit restores full control of filter, backwash, rinse, waste, recirculate, and closed modes.

It includes:

• A durable black MPV top suited to pool chemical environments

• A wagon wheel gasket (spider seal) with 197 mm diameter to match standard valve designs

• A replacement O-ring for tight sealing

• 50 ml contact adhesive to install components securely

This kit fits EARTHeCO sand filters and is also compatible with many other brands using the standard 197 mm spider seal. The wagon wheel gasket ensures that water is routed precisely between valve ports, eliminating internal leaks or bypasses. With everything included, you’ll avoid multiple orders and get your valve restored in one repair.

FAQ;s

How do I install the kit?

1. Turn off pump and relieve pressure.

2. Remove old MPV top and gasket.

3. Clean and dry sealing surfaces.

4. Apply contact adhesive to the gasket and valve body.

5. Wait ~5 minutes before positioning gasket.

6. Install the new MPV top and O-ring.

7. Leave the valve open for 24 hours to allow the adhesive to cure before full use.

What if the gasket is worn or torn?
If the wagon wheel (spider) seal is damaged, water can bypass internal ports, reducing filtration efficiency and causing leaks.

Can I use this kit on non-EARTHeCO valves?
Yes — as long as the valve uses the 197 mm wagon wheel gasket design.

How often should I replace it?
Inspect yearly. Replace when you notice leaking, difficulty switching valve positions, or degraded performance.

Does adhesive last?
When applied properly and cured, the included contact adhesive provides reliable bonding under normal pool conditions.

Key Features & Benefits

• Full replacement kit: top, spider gasket, O-ring, adhesive

• Restores all valve functions (filter, backwash, etc.)

• Compatible with EARTHeCO and other standard valves using 197 mm gasket

• Stops internal valve leaks and ensures correct port routing

• Durable black plastic construction resists pool chemicals

• DIY friendly, saves time and sourcing parts separately

Technical Specifications

• Kit Type: MPV Top Replacement Kit

• Gasket Type: Wagon Wheel / Spider Seal

• Gasket Size: 197 mm diameter

• Color: Black

• Components: MPV top, wagon wheel gasket, O-ring, adhesive

• Compatibility: EARTHeCO filters and standard systems using 197 mm spider seal

How to Change Your Pool Multiport Valve Handle Assembly: A Complete DIY Guide

What is a Multiport Valve Handle Assembly?

When Should You Replace Your Multiport Valve Handle Assembly?

• Difficulty turning the handle between positions
• Cracks or breaks in the handle or top assembly
• Leaking from the top of the valve
• The handle won’t stay in position or feels loose
• Worn or damaged internal components affecting valve operation
• Water flowing from the backwash pipe when the valve is set to filter or bypass position – a clear sign of internal seal failure

Choosing the Right Replacement MPV Top Assembly

Universal Options (Fits Most South African Sand Filters):

• EarthEco MPV Top Kit (White) – Universal fit, available in black and white
• Aqua Max MPV Top Kit (White) – Universal fit, available in black and white

Brand-Specific Options:

• Speck MPV Top Assembly – Recommended to use the original Speck brand for optimal fit and performance
• Collins filters – Recommended to use original Collins brand parts

Tools and Parts You’ll Need

• Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips head)
• Size 10 spanner (or adjustable wrench)
• Clean cloth for wiping surfaces

• Replacement multiport valve top assembly (see options above)
• Spider/Wagon Wheel Gasket with Adhesive (highly recommended)
• MPV Top Lid O-Ring (spare, if needed)
• MPV Top Bolts and Hex Nuts (spare, if needed)

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Multiport Valve Handle Assembly

Step 1: Turn Off Your Pool Pump

Step 2: Release Pressure

Step 3: Remove the Bolts and Lift Off the Old Top Assembly

• EarthEco, Storm, and Aqua King sand filters: Use a size 10 spanner to remove the bolts
• Speck sand filters: Use a large Phillips head screwdriver
• Aqua Max, Uni, Quality, and Ultrazap sand filters: Use a large flathead screwdriver

Step 4: Inspect and Remove the Spider/Wagon Wheel Gasket

• Cracks or tears in the rubber
• Worn or flattened areas
• Hardening or loss of flexibility
• Any visible damage or deterioration

1. Locate the center hub – The gasket sits on a central post in the valve body
2. Gently lift one edge – Use your fingers or a flathead screwdriver to carefully pry up one section of the gasket
3. Work around the perimeter – Slowly work your way around the gasket, lifting it evenly to avoid tearing
4. Lift off the center post – Once loosened, lift the entire gasket straight up and off the central hub
5. Clean the seating area – Remove any debris, sand, or old gasket material from the valve body and center post

Step 5: Clean the Valve Body

Step 6: Install the New Spider Gasket (if replacing)

1. Apply contact adhesive – Use contact adhesive (not permanent adhesive) on the bottom of the gasket and the valve body seating area. If you purchased the spider gasket with adhesive kit, the adhesive is included. Contact adhesive will hold the gasket securely in position during installation but still allows for easy removal during future maintenance. Important: Never use permanent adhesives like super glue or epoxy, as this will make future gasket replacement extremely difficult and may damage the valve body.
2. Allow adhesive to become tacky – Follow the contact adhesive manufacturer’s instructions, typically waiting 1-2 minutes until the adhesive becomes slightly tacky to the touch.
3. Position the gasket over the center post, ensuring the star-shaped ports align correctly with the valve body openings.
4. Press down firmly around the entire perimeter to seat it properly and activate the contact adhesive bond.
5. Check alignment – Verify that each “spoke” of the spider aligns with its corresponding port before the adhesive fully sets.

Step 7: Install the New Top Assembly

1. Replace all bolts around the perimeter of the valve top assembly.
2. Tighten in a crisscross pattern – Similar to tightening car wheel bolts, work in a star or crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure distribution across the entire assembly.
3. Snug, not over-tight – Tighten the bolts firmly but do not over-tighten. Excessive force can crack or break the plastic housing. The goal is a secure, even seal, not maximum torque.

• Do not turn the handle for 3-4 hours after installation. This allows the contact adhesive to fully cure and set properly.
• Wait at least 3 hours before testing the system to ensure the spider gasket is securely bonded in place.

Step 8: Test the System

Pro Tips for Success

• Take photos before disassembly to help with reassembly
• Check the spider gasket while you have the valve open – if it’s worn, consider replacing it at the same time
• Don’t force anything – if parts don’t fit easily, double-check alignment
• Use silicone lubricant on O-rings to help with installation and create a better seal
• Replace parts as a set when possible for optimal performance
• Keep spare parts on hand – Having spare bolts and O-rings can save you time on future maintenance

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not turning off the pump before starting work
2. Forgetting to check O-rings and gaskets for proper placement
3. Not testing for leaks before walking away from the job
4. Forcing parts that don’t align properly
5. Using permanent adhesive on the spider gasket
6. Over-tightening bolts and cracking the plastic housing
7. Operating the valve before the adhesive has fully cured

When to Call a Professional

• You’re uncomfortable working with pool equipment
• You discover additional damage to the valve body
• The valve continues to leak after replacement
• You need to replace the entire multiport valve unit

Maintenance Tips to Extend Valve Life

• Backwash regularly to prevent excessive pressure buildup
• Turn the handle slowly and deliberately between positions
• Don’t force the handle if it feels stuck
• Lubricate moving parts annually with appropriate silicone lubricant
• Inspect for wear during routine pool maintenance

Cost Considerations

Conclusion

What’s Included in the Box:

• 1 × EARTHeCO MPV Top (BLACK)

• 1 × Wagon Wheel Gasket (Spider Seal – 197mm)

• 1 × MPV Top O-Ring

• 1 × 50ml Contact Adhesive

⚠️ Safety Tip:

Never operate the pool pump while switching MPV settings. Always shut off the pump before adjusting positions to avoid damaging the valve.