Zodiac Baracuda Pacer Owner's Manual

Owner’s Manual

2

Important Information

Notice for Vinyl Liner Pools: Before installing your Zodiac Automatic Pool Cleaner, examine the interior of your pool carefully. If the vinyl liner is brittle or has stones, wrinkles, roots or metal corrosion in contact with the underside of the liner, or has damage to the base material or supporting walls, do not install the cleaner before having a qualified professional perform the necessary repairs or liner replacement. Zodiac will not be responsible for liner damage caused by a cleaner which is in disrepair, pattern removal

from a vinyl liner, or a cleaner used in a pool having an aged or deteriorated liner. Please see the

Limited Warranty.

• To help prevent suction entrapment accidents, wall vacuum fittings should have a safety vac lock installed. Contact your builder or retail pool professional for details.

• Clean the skimmer basket, pump basket and pool filter before installing the Zodiac cleaner and on a regular basis thereafter.

• Always disconnect the cleaner from the pool wall or skimmer before cleaning or backwashing the pool filter. After cleaning or backwashing, let the filtration system run for at least five minutes before re-connecting the cleaner.

• Remove the cleaner from the pool before chemical or shock treatments. Wait a minimum of 4 hours after super chlorination before re-installing the cleaner.

For customer service or support:

Zodiac Pool Care, Inc.

2620 Commerce Way

Vista, CA 92081-8438

1-800-822-7933 www.zodiacpoolcare.com

Zodiac Pool Care Canada, Inc.

2115 South Service Road West, Unit 3

Oakville, ON, Canada L6L 5W2

1-888-647-4004 www.zpc.ca

To ensure prompt warranty service, should it be required, please:

• Complete and return the Zodiac Warranty Card.

• Record your purchase information.

• Attach a copy of your purchase receipt to this document.

Date of Purchase: ___________ Purchased From: __________________________________

Serial Number (Located on underside of cleaner) ___________________________________

If service is required, simply present your owner’s manual with the attached receipt at any

Zodiac authorized warranty center nationwide.

For sale and use in the United States, Canada and Mexico only. This pool cleaner is not warranted or guaranteed outside of the United States,

Canada or Mexico. This pool cleaner is covered by one or more of the following patents:

US patents: 5,421,054; 5,315,728, 6484,743 and D343034. Canadian patents: 2,134,220 and 2,442,894. Canadian rd. no. 67767.

Other patents pending.

Introduction

Congratulations on the purchase of your new Zodiac Pacer automatic pool cleaner, and thank you for choosing Zodiac. Powered by Baracuda technology, the Pacer is designed and manufactured for easy installation, and years of carefree operation.

The Zodiac Pacer connects to a dedicated cleaner (suction) line or a pool skimmer. As water flows through the cleaner, dirt and debris are pulled directly into the pool filtration system.

Before installing the cleaner, please take a few moments to become familiar with its components and to review the items listed under Important Information on the previous page.

Wheel Deflector

Cleaner Body

Hose Section

Finned Disc

Hose

Weight(s)

Flow Gauge

FlowKeeper Valve

6

6 5 4 3 2 1 0

45 23 01

Valve Cuff

Foot Pad

45° Elbow (2)

4-1/2" Connector

Hose

Protector Net

3

4

Prepare the Pool

1.

Manually vacuum the pool if excessive debris is present, and make sure the pool filter and pump basket are clean.

2.

Close the pool main drain line.

3.

Adjust the return lines to blow downward to break up surface circulation and

ensure complete cleaning coverage.

• Loosen the fitting lock ring

• Redirect the eyeball downward

• Retighten the lock

If the return fitting cannot be adjusted, the fitting MUST be replaced with a Zodiac return line diverter (part #W90153 for 1-1/2", #W90155 for 2" or #W24100 for pools without return fittings).

Assemble the Cleaner

Stretch the disc over the foot pad with the fins pointing up. The disc should fit securely in the groove and rotate freely on the pad.

Slide the wheel deflector onto the extension pipe, clips up, and secure between the two lowest pipe ridges. The deflector should rotate freely.

Assemble the Hose

For corner or end installations, connect enough hose to reach the farthest point of the pool and then add one more section.

For center installations, connect enough hose to reach the farthest point of the pool and then add two more sections.

Skimmer or

Dedicated Suction

Cleaner Line

1 Hose

Section

Hose

Weight(s)

Skimmer or

Dedicated Suction

Cleaner Line

Hose

Weight(s)

2 Hose

Sections

Position the hose weight(s), two for US/Mexico installations and one for Canadian, in the middle of the second hose section, about 60" (1.5 m) back from the end of the hose.

Connect the Hose

Submerge the hose completely, removing all air. Installation Tip: Turn on the pump, place the hose in front of the return line until it is flooded. Turn off the pump.

To connect to a dedicated suction line:

1.

Insert the male end of the hose into the large end of the 45° elbow.

2.

Connect the elbow to the safety vac wall fitting.

3.

Angle the elbow upward towards the water surface.

Elbow

Hose

Elbow

Dedicated

Cleaner Line

To connect to a skimmer:

The FlowKeeper valve must always be used in single skimmer

installations. It is pre-set at the factory for the cleaner but offers three settings to adjust the flow. The lower the setting number, the lower the flow. To adjust, pull the handle and move setting up or down.

The red tab can be used to open the valve and stop the cleaner.

If the pool has more than one skimmer, connect the hose to the one closest to the pump.

The parts used to connect the hose, and the sequence in which they are installed depends on the type of skimmer.

Deep Skimmer Shallow Skimmer

FlowKeeper

Adjustment

45 Elbow

4-1/2" Connector

FlowKeeper

Valve

Valve Cuff

45 Elbow

Hose

Protector

Net

FlowKeeper

Valve

Valve Cuff

Hose

Protector

Net

4-1/2"

Connector

1.

Remove the skimmer basket.

2.

Insert the valve fitting and connect the FlowKeeper with the arrow pointing down towards the skimmer pipe.

3.

Attach the hose protector net to the hose section that goes into the skimmer.

4.

Choose the fitting combination that best suits the skimmer to complete the connection.

5

6

Test and Adjust for Proper Flow

Keeping the hose submerged, attach the Flow Gauge to the hose and turn on the pump.

Verify that the red indicator in the gauge (viewed from the side) is at the Number 3 setting.

6

6 5 4 3 2 1 0

45 23 01

If necessary, use the valves in the pool equipment area to adjust the flow.

• For skimmer connections on pools with one skimmer, flow is automatically regulated by the

FlowKeeper Valve. The red indicator should be at the proper setting.

• For skimmer connections on pools with more than one skimmer, leave the valve on the skimmer connected to the hose open and slowly close the other until the proper setting is reached.

• For dedicated suction line connections, leave the vacuum line open and slowly close the skimmer line until the flow is at the proper setting.

If flow is in the low range (0-2):

• Check and clean the pool filter and baskets if necessary.

• Verify that valves controlling the suction lines are in the correct position.

If flow is in the high range (4-6):

• Verify that valves controlling the suction lines are in the correct position.

• Lower the flow setting on the FlowKeeper Valve.

• Open the main drain slightly to further reduce flow.

Connect the Cleaner

Turn off the pump. Keeping the hose underwater, remove the Flow Gauge.

1.

Submerge the cleaner and flood it with water.

2.

When bubbles stop coming from the extension pipe, connect the hose to the cleaner.

3.

Allow the cleaner to drift to the bottom of the pool.

4.

Turn on the pool pump and begin cleaning.

Operation and Maintenance

Fine Tuning Cleaner Performance

The Pacer cycles on/off with the pool filtration pump vacuuming and cleaning all surfaces randomly throughout the pool. The coverage of the Pacer is dependent on the pool’s shape and available water flow.

In some applications, adjustments may be necessary to optimize cleaning coverage.

The hose weight is positioned to compensate for the buoyancy of the hose.

A properly balanced hose will create a

45-degree angle to the cleaner and the bottom of the pool.

In pools 8-1/2 feet or deeper, an extra hose weight (part #W83247) may be necessary.

Add the weight 5 to 8 feet from the cleaner.

Incorrect Correct

Balance

Incorrect

A return line can be used to guide the cleaner away from steps or areas with V-shaped corners, and reduce patterning.

Direct the return to gently push the cleaner hose by positioning the return directional so it aims towards the wall on the opposite side of the pool, and surface movement is visible 8 feet out from the return.

In this example, any return within the grey area can be used.

Routine Maintenance

To maintain performance:

• Never coil the hose. Straighten a coiled hose with warm water or by laying it in the sun for a day.

A kinked or coiled hose will adversely effect the Pacer’s coverage of the pool.

• When not in the pool, keep the finned disc flat to avoid warping.

• Periodically inspect cleaner parts for wear. Replace the footpad when the depths of the channels between the treads are 1/8" or less.

• Empty the pump basket regularly. The more debris in the pool, the more often it should be cleared.

• Always disconnect the Pacer before cleaning or backwashing the pool filter. After cleaning, let the filtration system run for at least five minutes before re-connecting the cleaner.

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8

Clearing the Diaphragm

Use the easy-access system to quickly clear the diaphragm or check it for damage.

1.

Turn handnut counter-clockwise to loosen the outer extension pipe. Remove the pipe.

2.

Turn the cleaner over. Grasping the diaphragm flange, pull out the diaphram and inner pipe.

3.

Pull off the diaphragm.

Inspect it for debris or wear, and rinse it thoroughly with water. Replace if necessary.

To install:

1.

Verify that the retaining ring is on the diaphragm.

2.

Push diaphragm onto inner pipe.

3.

Aligning the flange of the diaphragm with the slot in the cleaner body, push the diaphragm assembly into the cleaner until it is flush against the inlet plate.

4.

Reinstall outer extension pipe and secure handnut. Do not over tighten.

Diaphragm

Retaining

Ring

Inner Pipe

Replacing the Foot Pad

The foot pad should be replaced when when the depths of the channels between the treads are 1/8" or less. Contact your Zodiac Dealer for assistance with replacing this part.

Channel Between Threads

Storage and Winterizing

Never coil the hose. Store the Pacer out of direct sunlight.

When storing for the winter, drain all water from the cleaner. Remove all connectors and adapters from the dedicated suction line or skimmer. Store finned disc flat, and hose sections disconnected, drained and straight.

If you experience a problem with your Pacer, please follow the troubleshooting steps below to restore performance. If further assistance is required, contact Zodiac Customer Service. Please have your serial number and date of purchase available when you call.

Problem

Cleaner does not move or moves slowly.

Solution

• Confirm that the main drain is closed.

• Use Flow Gauge to verify proper flow. Note: In water

60° F (16° C) or less, it may be necessary to increase flow to compensate for the reduced flexibility of the hose and diaphragm.

• Check diaphragm for damage or wear.

• Backwash filter and empty pump basket.

• Check for air in system. If water level in pump basket drops or you see excessive air bubbles in the pump basket or coming from the return lines, there is air in the system. Check hose connections, tighten all fittings at pump and check gasket in pump basket for wear.

Cleaner patterns, does not cover entire pool. • Use Flow Gauge to verify proper flow. Increase flow to improve climbing. Reduce to move cleaner off the walls.

• Ensure return fittings are directed down. Add a return diverter if necessary.

• Make sure hose is not kinked or coiled. If necessary, lay hose in sun to straighten.

• Verify correct hose weight positioning: about

60" or 1.5 m back from cleaner.

• Confirm proper hose length.

Cleaner gets stuck at steps.

• Use Flow Gauge to verify proper flow.

• Confirm proper hose length. Shorten if necessary.

• Use return jets to guide cleaner.

Cleaner stays on walls or edge of pool.

Cleaner won’t climb walls.

• Using Flow Gauge as guide, reduce flow to the cleaner.

• Verify correct hose weight positioning: about

60" or 1.5 m back from cleaner.

Note: Cleaner may not climb walls in some vinyl pools or pools with safety ledges.

• Using Flow Gauge as guide, increase flow to cleaner.

• Verify correct hose weight positioning: about

60" or 1.5 m back from cleaner.

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Zodiac Pacer Parts Diagram

6

9

9

8

5

4

3

2

17 18

13

14

1

6

6 5 4 3 2 1 0

45 23 01

12

11

15

16

7

10

No. Part Description

1 W69647 Wheel Deflector - 12"

2 W69983 Outer Extension Pipe

3 W56525 Inner Extension Pipe

4 W81600 Diaphragm Retaining Ring

5 W81701 Diaphragm

6 W83381 Weight / Float Assembly

7 W74000 Compression Ring

8 W69982 Inner Body

9 W69721 Foot Pad

10 W70032 Disc, 24 Finned

11 W70335 Flow Gauge

12 W33160 41/2" Connector

13 W60050 FlowKeeper Valve

14 W70263 In-ground Valve Cuff

15 W70244 45° Elbow

16 W33800 Hose Protector

17 W38260 Hose, 1 meter

18 W83247 Hose Weight (US/Mexico)

W83247 Hose Weight (Canada)

Qty.

1

1

2

1

1

1

1

1

12

2

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

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Zodiac Pacer Limited Warranty

This Zodiac Pacer cleaner was carefully inspected before shipment from our warehouse. Upon unpacking, if any part proves defective or missing, please notify Zodiac Pool Care, Inc. or Zodiac Pool Care Canada, Ltd. (“Zodiac”) immediately. Please refer to the information in this manual for complete instructions on the installation and operation of your Pacer.

ZODIAC WARRANTS THIS PACER POOL CLEANER:

AGAINST ALL MANUFACTURING DEFECTS:

AGAINST WEAR AND TEAR:

IN US/MEXICO

ONE (1) YEAR

ONE (1) YEAR

IN CANADA

TWO (2) YEARS

ONE (1) YEAR

ZODIAC WARRANTS THE PACER HOSE AGAINST DEFECTS, AND WEAR AND TEAR FOR ONE (1) YEAR.

ALL WARRANTIES ARE EFFECTIVE FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE.

Should this product prove defective in workmanship, materials or wear during the applicable warranty period, the consumer’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be such repair or replacement of the product as provided below.

THE LIMITED WARRANTY PROVIDED HEREIN IS THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE WRITTEN WARRANTY WITH RESPECT TO

THE PACER POOL CLEANER. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES IMPOSED BY APPLICABLE LAW, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED

WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE LIMITED TO THE DURATION OF THE

EXPRESS LIMITED WARRANTY. SOME JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED

WARRANTY LASTS, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.

Notice: As a term of any warranties provided above, you must contact Zodiac immediately upon the happening of any event upon which you make a warranty claim. Failure to provide this prompt notice may result in your forfeiting warranty rights and claim.

THIS LIMITED WARRANTY EXCLUDES THE FOLLOWING:

1. Discoloration of the Pacer pool cleaner. This is caused by reaction to ultraviolet rays and the chemicals used in the pool water.

Discoloration does not affect the operating ability of the Pacer. Therefore, this Limited Warranty does not cover the replacement of discolored parts.

2. Damage to or malfunction of the unit resulting from excess chlorination or improper water chemistry balance.

3. Replacement of parts which fail or become defective as a result of improper installation, negligence, misuse, abuse or tampering by unauthorized repair personnel.

4. Age, pool water imbalance, and improper installation can cause vinyl pool liners to become brittle or unduly wrinkled. Corrosion of the supporting walls and /or irregularities in the pool base may also cause liner failure. The use of this product in such an environment is at the pool owner’s risk. Therefore, the pool owner hereby releases the manufacturer from any and all claims for damage where these conditions exist.

5. The Pacer is designed for use in in-ground pools only. If unit is used in any other application, the pool owner hereby releases the manufacturer from any and all claims. This misuse will void all warranty on the unit.

6. In no event shall Zodiac be liable in contract or in tort, or under any other legal theory, for lost profits or revenues, loss of use or similar economic loss, or for indirect, special, incidental, consequential or similar damages, even if it has been advised of the possibility of such claim. Some jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.

IMPORTANT WARRANTY NOTICES FOR VINYL LINER POOL OWNERS

• Certain vinyl liner patterns are particularly susceptible to rapid surface wear or pattern removal caused by objects coming into contact with the vinyl surface, including pool brushes, pool toys, floats, fountains, chlorine dispensers, and automatic pool cleaners.

• Some vinyl liner patterns can be seriously scratched or abraded simply by rubbing the surface with a pool brush. Ink from the pattern can also rub off during the installation process or when it comes into contact with objects in the pool. Zodiac is not responsible for, and the Limited Warranty does not cover, pattern removal, abrasion or marking on vinyl liners.

• Vinyl liners are subject to deterioration or damage due to age, the effect of chemicals, corrosion or failure of the supporting walls; as well as improper installation, maintenance or cleaning of the supporting walls or base.

• Before installing the Pacer, examine the interior of your pool carefully. If your vinyl liner is brittle or has stones, wrinkles, roots or metal corrosion in contact with the underside of the liner, or has damage to the base material or supporting walls, do not install the

Pacer before having a qualified professional perform the necessary repairs or liner replacement.

ZODIAC WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR LINER DAMAGE CAUSED BY (1) A PACER CLEANER WHICH IS IN DISREPAIR,

(2) PATTERN REMOVAL FROM A VINYL LINER, OR (3) A PACER CLEANER USED IN A POOL HAVING AN AGED OR

DETERIORATED LINER.

WARRANTY PROCEDURES

No claim under this Limited Warranty will be recognized unless the registration card, included in your box, is completed and returned within thirty (30) days of the purchase date. Only the original purchaser may submit a claim under this Limited Warranty.

Purchaser’s claims against Zodiac shall be limited to those claims which may be asserted under the Limited Warranty relating to any defect, malfunction or wear of the Pacer.

To obtain warranty replacements or repair, call Zodiac for authorization. When submitting a claim, always supply the serial number, evidence of purchase date, retailer and a brief description of the problems/defects encountered. Zodiac reserves the right to repair or replace all defective or worn parts covered by this Limited Warranty, and return same to purchaser, freight collect.

Zodiac assumes no responsibility for any warranties or representations made by other individuals or businesses beyond the express terms contained in this Limited Warranty. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.

For sale and use in the United States, Canada and Mexico only. This pool cleaner is not warranted or guaranteed in any other country.

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ZODIAC POOL CARE, INC.

2620 Commerce Way

Vista, CA 92081

Tel: 800-822-7933

Fax: 877-327-1403 www.zodiacpoolcare.com

©2008 Zodiac Pool Care, Inc. All rights reserved. TL-2075 2/08