Sta-Rite 2″ Cover O-Ring 14971-SM20E7

The Sta-Rite 14971-SM20E7 is the cover o-ring for 2 inch multiport valves. It is carried for the 2 inch Cristal-Flo top mount valve model 14971-TM-22-L and for the Sta-Rite 1-1/2 inch and 2 inch side mount multiport valves.

Where it sits

The o-ring rides in the joint between the valve cover and the valve body. Everything inside the valve is under filter pressure whenever the pump runs, so this single seal is what stands between that pressure and a puddle on the pad.

Recognizing a failed cover o-ring

The tell is a slow, persistent drip from the top of the valve that returns as soon as the pump comes back on, and that does not respond to tightening the cover down harder. Over tightening a valve cover onto a hardened o-ring can crack the cover, so replace the seal instead. With the valve open it is worth inspecting the spider gasket at the same time, since a valve that leaks past the cover has usually done enough seasons to have worn that as well.