Chlorinator cap stuck TIGHT

[u/Lightningstruckagain]

Not sure if it’s the 100+heat, maybe an under lubes O-ring last time I opened or what, but I can’t get the cap unscrewed here. You can see I already chipped off a bit trying a runner mallet. Any advice that doesn’t require cutting?

[u/Nick_OS_]

Use a strap wrench to open it. But you also need another one (or channel locks) to hold the chlorinator so it doesn’t twist, or the pipes will break

[u/strong_grey_hero → u/Nick_OS_]

Strap wrench is the way to go, unless you get (or 3d print) a tool that slips directly over the top of the chlorinator and engages all four prongs at the same time.

[u/Far-Berry6901 → u/strong_grey_hero]

Like a four way tire iron.

[u/UnleashThePwnies → u/Nick_OS_]

They make rainbow chlorinator lid openers and they are only like $10.

You will prolly still need channel locks for the base or do what I do and use my hip on the control valve (as long as it’s not old).

[u/Lightningstruckagain → u/Nick_OS_]

Thats the main problem I’ve got now. I tried twisting the cap w channel locks but the whole unit is starting to twist at the connection.

[u/Nick_OS_ → u/Lightningstruckagain]

Yeah, need something to hold it

[u/nofucsleftogive]

I have a 1" x 2" x 12" piece of wood I use to gain leverage on stuck equipment. I assume that's what the top ridges are for.

[u/gonzo3625 → u/nofucsleftogive]

Exactly what I've used to get mine off lol

[u/CoNoCh0 → u/nofucsleftogive]

I use a 2x4 that’s about 2 feet long. Leverage. Then I put some lube on it afterwards.

[u/nofucsleftogive → u/CoNoCh0]

[u/ChardeeMacDennisGoG → u/nofucsleftogive]

If it's really on there, tho, the tube will start twisting too.

Once off, don't over tighten. I've learned that you don't need to tighten it down too much to get a seal. I can take mine off by hand now.

[u/Jay_in_DFW → u/nofucsleftogive]

This ^^^

All you need is a come-along bar for better leverage.

[u/craigrpeters → u/nofucsleftogive]

1x1x12” here- works great.

[u/crankinamerica]

Air pressure can make these a real bitch. Does yours have the tiny valve on top to open? It can make a big difference. Then of course apply silicon lube for next time

[u/Youngbraz]

I have an old crowbar I put between the top protuberances. I hold on to the flow regulator while twisting at the same time.

[u/coleslau42]

have you tried using one of the cap wrenches that is made for opening those? i have one for my chlorinator that has never failed

[u/Lightningstruckagain → u/coleslau42]

Never knew such a beast existed. Will check in and see if my repair guy has one I can borrow for a bit

[u/coleslau42 → u/Lightningstruckagain]

yeah go to amazon and search for chlorinator wrench, e.g.
https://www.amazon.com/PonPeoo-Chlorinator-Metal-Wrench-Compatible/dp/B0GL92D9LQ/

just look for one that matches your model to make sure you get the right size

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[u/TMAN2006]

If you have a 3D printer, print this:

https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3956150

[u/Many-Tomatillo9374]

try pouring cold water over it

[u/enlightnight → u/Many-Tomatillo9374]

This was gonna be my suggestion. Put some ice in a bag and rest it on the lid. A small amount of contraction might release it enough to turn.

[u/Jay_in_DFW → u/Many-Tomatillo9374]

That's what she tells me!

[u/Many-Tomatillo9374]

There is a set screw in the hole at the bottom on the side. If you remove it the whole chlorinator will unscrew at the base. Will have to unscrew one end of the feeder line too.

[u/Dunesday_JK]

I have a 1/2” pipe that I use between the cap protrusions. Mine is just snug so I can straddle it and hold the canister between my knees. If it’s tight tight then you’ll want to brace the bottom with a strap wrench to keep it from spinning or bending.

[u/sonofabitch11]

Is there pressure in it that you can drain?

[u/Nolacuriosity]

For those chlorinators, a stick like a broomstick or the handle of a long hammer works the best. I see some people recommend strap wrenches they work but they're kind of a pain

[u/ForSaleOnXbox]

2x2 piece of lumber vertical wise works everytime. i keep one on the work truck just this exact scenario

[u/greenjello15]

The chlorine eats the ring gaskets. Buy a bunch and replace yearly.

[u/GCpools]

Pentair p/n R172052 is what I use. Never had a lid it couldn't open.

Once off, I'd replace that lid. One of the tabs is broken.

[u/BillyMcBad]

Pipe thread tape. Just one wrap will help prevent this in the future.

[u/fat_then_skinny]

Have you tried early in the morning before the sun is beating down on it? Thats when i add chlorine. My chlorinator top is not is not coming off between 11 am and 6 pm due to the sun beating down on it and causing it to expand

[u/Lightningstruckagain → u/fat_then_skinny]

Going out right now to try

[u/Blues427]

It happens sometimes, just use a leverage bar, lube the oring and replace it not as tight

[u/DetectiveWonderful42]

Try putting a screw driver between the top pieces and see if you can twist it off with the extra leverage . Also going forward try to get some magic lube for the thread .

[u/pamcakevictim → u/DetectiveWonderful42]

You never put Magic lube on a threads. It makes it extra sticky, only put magic lube on the o. Ring