Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Sun2Solar 800 & 1200 Series Easy Gear Solar Cover Reel. This reel is designed to simplify the management of your solar pool cover, reducing the effort required for removal and deployment. It is compatible with Sun2Solar 800 and 1200 series solar covers and suitable for various pool shapes up to 20 feet wide.
Safety Information
- Always ensure the reel is stable before operating.
- Keep hands and loose clothing clear of moving parts during operation.
- Do not allow children to operate the reel unsupervised.
- Exercise caution when moving the reel, especially on uneven surfaces.
- This reel is intended for use with solar pool covers only. Do not use for other purposes.
Package Contents
Verify that all components are present before beginning assembly:
- Stainless Steel Frame Components
- Aluminum Reel Tubes (3¼" diameter)
- Easy Gear Crank Handle Assembly
- Treaded Wheels (2)
- Attachment Hardware for Solar Cover
- All necessary assembly hardware (bolts, nuts, screws)
Setup and Assembly
Follow these steps to assemble your Sun2Solar Easy Gear Solar Cover Reel:
- Unpack Components: Carefully remove all parts from the packaging and lay them out. Identify each component against the package contents list.
- Assemble the Frame: Connect the stainless steel frame components according to the diagrams. Ensure all bolts are securely tightened. The base measures approximately 22 inches wide from the outside of the wheels.
- Attach Wheels: Secure the two treaded wheels to the designated axle points on the frame. These wheels facilitate easy movement of the reel.
- Insert Reel Tubes: Slide the aluminum reel tubes together to form the main roller bar. The tubes have a 3¼-inch diameter. Ensure they are fully seated and secured with the provided fasteners to prevent rotation or separation.
- Install Crank Handle: Attach the Easy Gear crank handle assembly to one end of the reel tube. This gear system is designed to reduce the effort required for winding the cover. Refer to the image below for the gear mechanism detail.
Figure 1: Detail of the Easy Gear mechanism.
Figure 2: Fully assembled solar cover reel.
Figure 3: Reel dimensions for placement reference.
Operating Instructions
- Positioning the Reel: Place the assembled reel at one end of your pool. The reel is designed for easy maneuvering with its treaded wheels.
- Attaching the Solar Cover: Lay your solar cover flat on the pool surface. Use the provided attachment hardware to connect the leading edge of the solar cover to the reel tube. Ensure the attachments are evenly spaced and securely fastened to prevent tearing or uneven rolling.
- Reeling In the Cover: To remove the solar cover from the pool, turn the crank handle clockwise. The Easy Gear system will assist in smoothly rolling the cover onto the reel tube. Continue until the entire cover is wound onto the reel.
- Moving the Reel: Once the cover is reeled in, you can easily move the reel away from the pool area using its wheels. Lift the handle side slightly and roll it like a wheelbarrow.
- Deploying the Cover: To place the solar cover back onto the pool, position the reel at one end of the pool. Unwind the cover by turning the crank handle counter-clockwise or by gently pulling the cover across the pool surface while guiding the reel.
Figure 4: Solar cover attached to the reel.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Periodically clean the reel frame and tubes with mild soap and water to remove dirt, debris, and chemical residues. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
- Lubrication: Inspect the gear mechanism and wheel axles annually. Apply a silicone-based lubricant if any stiffness is observed.
- Hardware Check: Regularly check all bolts, screws, and fasteners to ensure they remain tight. Tighten as needed.
- Storage: During the off-season or extended periods of non-use, store the reel in a clean, dry area away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures to prolong its lifespan.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Reel tube sags in the middle. | Heavy or oversized solar cover; improper tube connection. | Ensure tubes are fully inserted and secured. For very large/heavy covers, consider additional internal support (e.g., PVC pipe insert) if necessary. |
| Difficulty turning the crank handle. | Obstruction; dry gears; misaligned cover. | Check for debris. Apply silicone lubricant to gears. Ensure the solar cover is attached evenly and not binding. |
| Solar cover attachment clips detach. | Improper fastening; excessive tension. | Ensure clips are securely fastened to both the cover and the reel strap. Consider using additional securing methods like zip ties for extra reinforcement if needed. |
| Reel is difficult to move. | Wheels obstructed; uneven ground. | Clear any debris from wheels. Ensure the path is clear. Lift the handle side to use it in a wheelbarrow style for easier transport. |
Specifications
- Brand: Sun2Solar
- Model: 919321
- Materials: Aluminum, Stainless Steel
- Maximum Pool Width: Up to 20 feet
- Reel Tube Diameter: 3¼ inches
- Reel Height (to center of pole): Approximately 18 inches
- Base Width (outside of wheels): Approximately 22 inches
- Operation Mode: Manual, Easy Gear System
- Supported Pool Types: In-ground and Above-ground
- Supported Pool Shapes: Round, Oval, Rectangular, Kidney, Roman, Free Form, Grecian, Figure 8
Warranty Information
This Sun2Solar Easy Gear Solar Cover Reel comes with a 5-year limited manufacturer warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. For specific terms and conditions, refer to the warranty documentation included with your product or contact Sun2Solar customer support.
Customer Support
For further assistance, technical support, or to inquire about replacement parts, please contact Sun2Solar customer service. Refer to the contact information provided on the product packaging or the official Sun2Solar website.