ASM Skimmer Collection Cup Lid - Difficult to remove and re-install

leftygerbino

leftygerbino

New member
Does anyone have a magic method for removing and re-installing the collection cup lid on an ASM skimmer? It's a pain in the butt to get on and off. I'm afraid I'm going to break it if I use something other than my hands and if I don't put it on tight enough there's no seal. It still appears to be producing then it's not locked on. Any input would be great.
Thanks!
 
I use an ASM G1X and I can't wait to get another skimmer. It's a good bang for the buck skimmer though.

I have a replacement pump on mine and even though it's the same pump it comes off so often when I'm trying to get the collection cup off. I end up twisting the skimmer body slightly and end up pumping the bubbles all over my sump. You could possibly lube it up to help it slide. I have issues with mine too though.
 
Lube... High-purity and preferrably viscous silicone lubricant both on the O-ring and the threads will help out a lot. Lubricating the O-ring will help it seal to the body, and just a dab on the threads will help them slide easier. I always re-lube my O-rings and unions whenever I remove them
 
I don't have trouble with mine 2 4xxs. Dump skimmate every few days. . Didn't drill them either ;not a bad mod though . I just line it up twist gently till it falls into pace and lock it in. Works for me.
 
I loved the performance of mine but it was a huge pain in the butt to remove the cup. Sometimes the cone would come off or the rubber gasket would come off. Like you I was terrified I was going to snap it or have the whole thing go flying.

I'll second the silicone lube. Cheap & works well. Get it in plumbing section at HD, Lowes, or other preferred.
 
I use a couple of these . I just slide them together without locking them.. just line up the tabs . they have enough friction to hold together just fine. the only issue I have is when the impellor needs replaced every couple years. I think the simplicity is key.
 
FWIW this is one of the reason that I bought a euroreef skimmer when I did. Same pump and style as the ASM's, but a big giant collar with lots of threads and a huge gasket that comes apart real easy. I always wondered if the ASM one would be a little sticky.
 
Thanks a lot guys! Just to clarify my issue is not with the interlock with the gasket where the collection cup attaches to the larger (bottom) portion of the skimmer but with the "lid" of the collection cup itself. I can simply just put the lid on without turning it and just leave it in place I just wasn't sure if there needed to be a seal where the plastic meets the plastic (no gasket). I have been fighting with it to get it opened and closed but didnt want to break it. I'm thinking as long as the skimmer is producing I'll be fine. Since I bought the skimmer used I just wondering if I was missing something.
Thanks again guys!
 
Just leave the lid sitting on top no need to lock it... It's a pita of you lock it

Sent from my HTC One X using Tapatalk 2
 
I had that problem when mine were newer and I tended to twist the lid tightly. Just place it on and turn it lightly into a half locked position and you should be fine.
 
Just slap a lil petroleum jelly on there. I use it to help seal the o-rings and it also works as a lubricant for easy maintenance. :)
 
I don't lock my lid ever. I've had three ASM skimmers and two of the three did that. It works fine and doesn't cause any issues.
 
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