Polaris Vac-Sweep 180 User manual

Important Information
The Polaris Vac-Sweep®180 automatic pool cleaner comes ready to connect to a threaded 1-1/2"
female pipe fitting on a dedicated cleaner line. Other connections are possible, but they require addi-
tional fittings (see Section B on page 4).
The Polaris 180 is intended for use with a Polaris Booster Pump. You should have a licensed electrician
install the cleaner's booster pump. The booster pump must be installed according to the electrical
codes applicable in your area. Improper installation can result in serious or even fatal injury.
The following are important points to remember when installing and operating the Polaris 180.
•Always turn the filtration pump on before turning on the booster pump.
•Always disconnect the Polaris from the pool wall when cleaning or backwashing the pool filter.
•After cleaning or backwashing, let the filtration system run for at least five minutes before
reconnecting the Polaris.
•New plumbing lines should be flushed out before installing the Polaris.
•The Polaris should not be used to remove plaster dust in new pools.
•Always remove the Polaris before swimmers enter the pool.
•Always handle the Polaris with care. Do not let children or pets play with the Polaris; it is not a toy.
•Except when checking the wheel RPM, do not handle the Polaris while it is operating (see page 7).
•Never pick up the Polaris by the head float.
•Always remove the Polaris from the pool before chemical shock treatments. As a general rule, any
pool water that is unsafe for swimming is unsafe for the Polaris.
•Carefully cut the hoses following the instructions on page 5.
By following these simple guidelines, you can help protect against injury and prolong the life of your new
Polaris 180.
Polaris 180 U.S. Patents: 4,618,420; D 288,373. Unique product shape is a registered trademark.
Before the Polaris is installed, please take a moment to record the serial number. For the location of
the serial number, refer to the Exploded Parts Diagram on page 14. You will be asked for this
number when you contact our Customer Service Department.
Serial # A ______________________

Table of Contents
I. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
II. Installation Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
A. Polaris 180 Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
B. Possible Pool Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
1. Dedicated Cleaner Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2. Over-the-deck Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
C.Installing the Universal Wall Fitting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
D.Cutting the Feed Hose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
E. Assembling the Polaris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
F. Checking Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
G.Fine Tuning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1. Thrust JetAdjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2. Head Float Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
3. Sweep Hose Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
4. Universal Wall Fitting Pressure Restrictors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
5. Checking Wheel RPM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
III.Operation and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
A. What to Expect From Your Polaris 180 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
B. Turning On/Off the Polaris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
C.Operating Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
D.Connecting/Disconnecting the Polaris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
E. Cleaning the Filter Bag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
F. Periodic Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
1. Filter Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2. Wear Rings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
3. Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
4. Sweep Hose Scrubber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
G.Backwashing the Pool Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
H.Backwashing the Polaris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
I. Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
J. Winterizing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
K. Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
1. Sweep Hose Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2. Ladder Guard Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
3. WaterStars and WaterStars WF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
4. Leaf Bag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
5. Disposable Sand/Silt Bag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
6. SpaWand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
IV.Troubleshooting the Polaris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
A. Problems and Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
B. Troubleshooting Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Polaris Booster Pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Exploded Parts Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

I. Introduction
Congratulations on the purchase of your new
automatic pool cleaner, and thank you for
choosing a Polaris Vac-Sweep®180. The Polaris
180 is designed to give you years of dependable
and efficient service. With the Polaris 180, you
and your family can spend more time enjoying
your pool and less time cleaning it.
The Polaris has been built with the finest mate-
rials available. The Polaris 180 is backed by the
Polaris limited warranty that protects against
defects in parts and workmanship (see the war-
ranty on page 17). Like most mechanical devices,
it will require periodic adjustments, routine main-
tenance, and the replacement of certain
hardworking parts. Be sure to have the Polaris
checked occasionally by your local Polaris dealer.
Always insist on genuine Polaris replacement
parts. You can be sure you are buying genuine
Polaris parts if they come in Polaris part bags or
have the Polaris logo on them. Non-Polaris
parts are not made to our specifications. They
may have an adverse effect on the operation of
your Polaris or may even damage it. If you are
unable to find genuine Polaris parts in your area,
contact us at 1-800-VAC-SWEEP (USAand
Canada only) or [phone] to receive the
name of the participating Polaris dealer nearest
you.
For best results, the Polaris 180 should be
installed by a pool professional. For those with
experience and confidence in handling plumbing
and mechanical equipment, installation instruc-
tions are included in this manual.
Please Note: Installation instructions for the
Polaris Booster Pump are included with the
pump.
➔Look for this symbol throughout the
owner's manual for helpful hints in the
use of your new Polaris 180.
The numbers in parentheses found throughout
the manual refer to the index numbers in the
Exploded Parts Diagram on pages 14-16. There
are also part numbers listed in parentheses to
help identify the replacement parts available at
your participating Polaris dealer.
Once again, thank you for choosing a Polaris.
3

II.Installation Instructions
A. Polaris 180 Components
The Polaris 180 box contains (the numbers below re-
fer to the exploded parts diagram on pages 14-16):
1. All-Purpose Bag (#24)
2. Sweep Hose (#4)
3. Head Float (#31)
4. Cleaner Head
5. Complete Feed Hose
6. Back-up Valve (#51)
7. Sweep Hose Scrubber (#28)
8. Quick Disconnect (#44) with Universal
Wall Fitting (#40)
9. Universal Wall Fitting Pressure Restrictors
(one red and one blue) (#39)
B. Possible Pool Connections
1. Dedicated Cleaner Line
A 1-1/2" dedicated cleaner line is recommended.
It should be approximately 6" below the water
level and have 1-1/2" female threads. If it has 3/4"
female threads, you will need to purchase the
3/4" x 1-1/2" coupling (part #G-9).
2. Over-the-deck Installation
If the pool does not have a dedicated cleaner
line, the Polaris can be installed by obtaining an
over-the-deck kit (part #G-12) and running an
aboveground feed line from the booster pump
over the pool deck to the pool wall.
C. Installing the Universal
Wall Fitting
1. Turn on the filtration pump and flush out the
plumbing line.
2. Remove the universal wall fitting from the
quick disconnect. The universal wall fitting has a
blue pressure restrictor installed to help the
Polaris operate at its optimum level of efficiency.
Screw the universal wall fitting and the blue
restrictor into the return line by hand.
3. Turn the quick disconnect into the universal
wall fitting clockwise and pull away to secure.
4. Turn the quick disconnect by hand to tighten
the universal wall fitting; do not overtighten.
Once the universal wall fitting is secure, the quick
disconnect can be removed without removing the
universal wall fitting.
4
Universal
Wall Fitting
Quick
Disconnect
Pressure Relief
Valve
Pool Wall
Universal Wall
Fitting Pressure
Restrictor
Universal Wall
Fitting
White Hoses Are Cut to Equal Lengths Clear Hose is Equal to
Greatest Depth of Pool
Entire Feed Hose Reaches Within 6" of Farthest Point of Pool*
Floats Are Evenly Distributed
(1-1/2 to 3 Feet Apart) 2-3 Feet Apart
*Please Note: The illustrations in this section do not necessarily represent the farthest point for every pool. You
must determine where the farthest point is in your pool.
Properly Sized Feed Hose
For proper cleaner performance, the hose must be sized to fit your pool. To size correctly, follow the steps in
Section D. Once sized, the feed hose should look like the one below.

D. Cutting the Feed Hose
1. Straighten the feed hose by soaking it in hot
water or laying it in the sun.
2. Measure and mark the deepest part of the
pool (usually the main drain) with a telepole. If
the pool depth is 10 feet or more, do not cut
the clear hose and skip to step 5.
3. Lay the telepole next to the clear hose. If the
clear hose is longer than the mark on the tele-
pole, cut the excess from the end attached to the
white hose. Do not cut off the float.
4. Reattach the clear hose to the white hoses.
➔It is easier to reinstall the swivels when
the hose and swivels are wet.
5. Attach the quick disconnect at the end of the
white hose to the universal wall fitting.
6. Stretch the hose to the farthest point of the
pool. (The Polaris will not usually climb onto the
top step, so do not count it in your measurement.)
If the hose is within 6" of the farthest point of the
pool, go to Section E.
If the hose is more than 6" short, add a 10-foot
section of white hose with floats (part #9-100-
3104), two nuts (part #D-15), and one swivel
(part #D-20). Do not add more than one 10-foot
hose section.
7. Measure the amount of hose that extends
past the farthest point of the pool. This is the
overage measurement. Do not cut the hose yet.
8. Lay the hose on the deck. Go to the swivel
between the 10-foot white hoses. Slide the floats
away from the swivel and remove the swivel.
9. Cut an equal amount of the overage mea-
surement from each 10-foot white hose.
10. Reinstall the swivel with the flow arrows on
the swivel pointing toward the Polaris. (Refer to
the “Proper Nut Placement”diagram.)
5
Overage
Measurement
Universal
Wall
Fitting
Farthest
Point from
Universal
Wall Fitting
Greatest Depth of Pool
Mark Water Level
Telepole
Cut Clear Hose
Equal to Greatest
Depth of Pool
Water Level Mark
Telepole
SwivelWhite Hoses
Remove Excess
Hose From This
End
Feed
Hose Nut
Swivel
Water Flow
To Polaris
Overage Measurement
Remove
Here
White Hoses are
Cut to Equal Lengths
Floats
Swivel
Floats
Remove
Here
Proper Nut Placement

11. On the clear hose, make sure one float is
against the back-up valve on the side opposite
the cleaner and another float is upstream within
2-3 feet. On the white hoses, space the floats no
less than 1-1/2 feet and no more than 3 feet apart,
so the white hoses do not sag. It may be neces-
sary to remove floats to maintain proper spacing.
12. When the feed hose has been cut properly, it
should look like the one in the “Properly Sized
Feed Hose”diagram on page 4.
E. Assembling the Polaris
1. Put the nut on the feed mast. Attach the clear
hose to the feed mast and tighten the nut. If there
is a curve at the end of the hose, align it with the
curve of the feed mast.
2. Pull out the bag and fasten the velcro strip
loosely around the clear hose.
3. Turn on the pool filtration pump. Wait at least
30 seconds and turn on the booster pump.
F. Checking Operation
When operating correctly, the Polaris 180 will
travel randomly throughout the pool, vacuuming,
sweeping and scrubbing the bottom, sides, and
most of the steps and swimouts. The Polaris will
clean an average pool in 3 hours or less.
The Polaris comes equipped with an automatic
pressure relief valve in the quick disconnect. If
the Polaris is receiving too much water pressure,
it will release water at the quick disconnect. The
wheel RPM of the Polaris should be between 28
and 32.
Approximately every 2 minutes the Polaris 180
will go into back-up mode. At this time the back-
up valve will pull the Polaris away from potential
obstacles and increase its random pattern.
The sweep hose operates in a gentle sweeping
motion to prevent debris from becoming trapped
in hard-to-reach corners of the pool.
If the Polaris does not operate as described
above, turn off the pumps and make the neces-
sary adjustments below.
G. Fine Tuning
1. Thrust Jet Adjustment
The position of the thrust jet determines the
direction of the Polaris. Its standard position is
straight back.
To change the direction of the thrust jet, loosen
(but do not remove) the screws, and move the
thrust jet to the desired position. Retighten the
screws, being careful not to overtighten. For the
location of the thrust jet, see the exploded parts
diagram on page 14.
6
Assembling the Polaris

2. Head Float Adjustment
The head float keeps the cleaner stable and in an
upright position. Its standard position is between
1/2 to 1 inch from the feed mast. Moving the float
out from the feed mast will keep the nose down.
Moving the float completely forward, toward the
feed mast, will increase the climbing ability. For
the location of the head float, see the "Assem-
bling the Polaris" diagram on page 6.
3. Sweep Hose Adjustment
The sweep hose should move in a gentle
sweeping motion. To decrease its motion, turn
the sweep hose adjustment screw clockwise. See
the “Assembling the Polaris”diagram on page 6.
Make sure the sweep hose scrubber does not
block the water flowing from the sweep hose.
4. Universal Wall Fitting Pressure
Restrictors
The universal wall fitting comes with a blue
restrictor installed and an optional red restrictor
for use if needed. These special restrictors are
designed to work in combination with the pres-
sure relief valve. Together they will release
excess water pressure so the Polaris can operate
at its optimum level of efficiency. The red
restrictor provides maximum water restriction,
while the blue restrictor provides less restriction.
To determine whether a restrictor is needed,
follow the instructions below.
5. Checking Wheel RPM
To determine whether the Polaris is receiving pro-
per water pressure, turn off and carefully remove
the Polaris from the pool. Mark the outer edge of
a tire. Place the Polaris back in the pool and turn
on the pumps.
Hold the Polaris suspended on its side just
below the water level. Hold it away from the
wall with the marked tire up.
➔Hold the sweep hose to avoid being squirted.
Count the revolutions of the marked wheel for
exactly one minute, beginning after the Polaris
has completed a back-up cycle. This gives you
the cleaner's wheel Revolutions Per Minute
(RPM).
For proper operation, the wheel RPM should be
between 28 and 32.
If the Polaris is operating above 32 RPM:
•Remove the universal wall fitting by attaching
the quick disconnect. Pull it away from the pool
wall as you unscrew the universal wall fitting.
•Push the blue restrictor out of the universal
wall fitting and snap in the red restrictor.
•Reinstall the universal wall fitting.
•Recheck the wheel RPM.
If the Polaris is still operating above 32 RPM,
unscrew the pressure relief valve (#43 on page
16) until the proper RPM are reached.
If the Polaris is operating below 28 RPM:
•Remove the universal wall fitting by attaching
the quick disconnect. Pull it away from the pool
wall as you unscrew the universal wall fitting.
•Push the blue restrictor out of the universal
wall fitting.
•Reinstall the universal wall fitting.
•Recheck the wheel RPM.
If you still have less than 28 RPM:
•Clean the filter screen in the quick discon-
nect. A dirty filter screen will restrict the water
flow from the pump to the Polaris.
•Check the hoses, connections, and swivels
for leaks that could cause loss of water pressure.
•If there is a gate valve installed on the
booster pump or the Polaris cleaner line, open it
completely so water can flow freely to the Polaris.
•Clean the skimmer and pump baskets.
Please Note: If the above suggestions do not
work, contact our Customer Service Department
at 1-800-VAC-SWEEP (USAand Canada only) or
[phone].
7
Vacuum
Tube
Sweep
Hose

A. What to Expect From Your
Polaris 180
When operating correctly, the Polaris 180 will
travel randomly throughout the pool, vacuuming,
sweeping and scrubbing the bottom, sides, and
most of the steps and swimouts. The Polaris will
clean an average pool in 3 hours or less.
The Polaris comes equipped with an automatic
pressure relief valve in the quick disconnect. If the
Polaris is receiving too much water pressure, it
will release water at the quick disconnect.
The wheel RPM of the Polaris should be between
28 and 32.
Approximately every 2 minutes the Polaris 180
will go into back-up mode. At this time the back-
up valve will pull the Polaris away from potential
obstacles and increase its random pattern.
The sweep hose operates in a gentle sweeping
motion to prevent debris from becoming trapped
in hard-to-reach corners of the pool.
B. Turning On/Off the Polaris
Never run the booster pump without the pool
filtration pump running. Turn on the filtration
pump. Wait at least 30 seconds and turn on the
booster pump. If the Polaris has been installed
with time clocks, set them so the Polaris is turned
on at least one half hour after the filtration pump
has been turned on and shuts off one half hour
before the filtration pump shuts off. Failure to
follow these instructions could cause pump
damage not covered in the Polaris warranty.
C. Operating Time
To find the optimum running time for your pool,
start by running the Polaris for 3 hours. Decrease
the time until you notice that your pool is not get-
ting clean.
➔If you have a lot of debris in your pool (i.e.
after a storm), you can run the Polaris in two
shorter cycles per day and empty the filter bag
between cycles.
D. Connecting/Disconnecting
the Polaris
To connect, turn off both pumps. Turn the quick
disconnect clockwise into the universal wall fitting
and pull away from the pool wall to secure.
To disconnect, turn off both pumps. Push the
quick disconnect in and turn counterclockwise.
➔To make connecting and disconnecting the
quick disconnect even easier, periodically
lubricate the quick disconnect o-ring with
o-ring lubricant.
E. Cleaning the Filter Bag
1. Remove the filter bag by releasing the velcro.
2. Open the velcro closure and dump out the
debris.
➔If the velcro closure begins to lose its “grip”,
rinse it, let it dry and clean it with a stiff brush.
➔Some Polaris owners have told us it is easier
to empty the filter bag when it is dry. They
alternate between two filter bags. When one
becomes full, they remove it and put on the
clean bag. They let the full bag dry com-
pletely before emptying it.
3. Reconnect the bag tightly to the vacuum tube,
slipping the velcro strip under the connection bar.
8
Universal Wall
Fitting (Installed)
Quick Disconnect
Peg
Velcro
Closure
III.Operation and Maintenance

4. Refasten the velcro strip loosely around the
feed hose.
F. Periodic Maintenance
The following wear items should be periodically
checked and replaced as needed. Note: Wear
items are not covered under warranty.
1. Filter Screen (#41)
Inside the quick disconnect there is a safety filter
to keep debris that is not caught by the pool filtra-
tion system out of the Polaris. If it clogs often,
consult your pool professional. Note: Running
the Polaris without the filter screen can damage
the Polaris.
To clean the filter screen, pull it out of the quick
disconnect, rinse it and press it firmly back into
place.
2. Wear Rings (#37)
The sweep hose is fitted with rolling wear rings
that protect the sweep hose. Replace them
before the weights on either side of the wear
rings begin to wear.
➔To maximize the life of the wear rings, rotate
them as they wear.
3. Tires (#12)
The tires provide traction and protect both the
Polaris and the bottom of your pool. Replace the
tires when the edges become rounded.
4. Sweep Hose Scrubber (#28)
The sweep hose scrubber helps keep the bottom
and sides of your pool clean. It also helps pre-
vent the sweep hose from spraying water out of
the pool. Replace the scrubber when it becomes
worn. The scrubber may need to be replaced
often depending on the surface of your pool.
➔To maximize the life of the sweep hose
scrubber, turn it as it wears.
G. Backwashing the Pool Filter
Always disconnect the Polaris from the pool wall
before cleaning or backwashing the pool filter.
Let the pool filtration system run for at least five
minutes to flush out the return lines before recon-
necting the Polaris.
H. Backwashing the Polaris
Occasionally flush out the Polaris by following the
steps below.
1. Turn off the pumps. Leaving the Polaris con-
nected to the pool wall, remove it from the pool.
2. Disconnect the feed hose and the bag.
Remove the sweep hose from the rear of the
Polaris.
3. Remove the thrust jet assembly from the
thrust jet orifice by unscrewing the two phillips-
head screws. (Make sure that you remove the
o-ring in back of the thrust jet.)
4. Look down the vacuum tube (where the bag
attaches) and you will see a jet. Insert the feed
hose down through the vacuum tube over the top
9
Quick Disconnect
Slot
Tab
Filter Screen
Feed
Hose
Mast
Vacuum
Tube
Sweep
Hose
Barb
Feed
Hose
Thrust
Jet
Orifice
Velcro
Strip
Velcro
Strip
Connection
Bar
Vacuum
Tube

of the jet. Hold one finger over the feed hose
mast and one over the sweep hose barb. Have
someone turn on the pumps. Let the water run
through the Polaris for approximate one minute.
5. Turn off the pumps and reassemble the Polaris.
I. Storage
Never store the Polaris in direct sunlight or with
the feed hose coiled.
➔If coils do form, lay the hose in the sun or
soak it in hot water to help straighten it
before reinstalling.
J. Winterizing
Freeze damage is not covered under warranty.
Remove the Polaris from the pool and drain all
the water from the Polaris before storing for the
winter. Also, drain all the water out of the booster
pump by removing the drain plug (see index
number 14 on page 13).
Use the quick disconnect to remove the universal
wall fitting. Attach the quick disconnect, pull it
away from the pool wall and unscrew. In some
cases, it may be necessary to use the universal
wall fitting removal tool (part #10-102-00) avail-
able from your participating Polaris dealer.
Note: If quick freeze conditions exist, be sure the
filtration pump is running and forcing water
through the booster pump. If there is a gate valve
installed, open it completely so water will flow
through the booster pump.
K. Accessories
1. Sweep Hose Weight (Part #B-2)
If the sweep hose or the thrust jet tend to break
the surface of the water –squirting nearby win-
dows, pool decking, or innocent bystanders –a
sweep hose weight can be installed.
2. Ladder Guard Kit (Part #G-21)
The ladder guard kit will help prevent the Polaris
from getting hung up around the pool ladder or
handrails.
3. WaterStars (Part #7-400-00) and
WaterStars WF (Part #11-100-00)
Both of the Polaris WaterStars fountains come
equipped to connect to a universal wall fitting.
Once the Polaris 180 is installed, you can quickly
and easily switch from pool cleaner to Polaris
fountain and back again.
4. Leaf Bag (Part #A-15)
The leaf bag is a large bag made of a more
durable material. It is specifically designed to
collect larger, heavier types of debris such as
large quantities of leaves and acorns. It can be
especially helpful after a storm.
5. Disposable Sand/Silt Bag
(Part #G-45)
The disposable bags are used in conjunction with
any of the other bags. They are made of an ultra
fine material that will help catch even the finest
silt. They will also make cleaning your bag even
easier. Disposable bags are sold in packs of
four.
6. SpaWand (Part #5-100-00)
This simple, effective hand-cleaning device
allows you to rapidly clean your spa without
hoses or hookups. It's also great for fish ponds
and other small bodies of water.
10

For best results, follow the troubleshooting solu-
tions in the order they are listed below. The num-
bers in parentheses refer to the Exploded Parts
Diagram on pages 14-16.
A. Problems and Solutions
Problem: Hangs up on corners or obsta-
cles longer than 2 minutes.
Solution: 1. Check the wheel RPM. See page 7.
2. Verify the back-up valve is cycling.
The jet should come on and go off. It
should stay off longer than it stays on.
3. Adjust the thrust jet (#26). See
page 6.
4. Remove unnecessary pool hard-
ware or install a ladder guard kit (part
#G-21). See page 10.
Problem: Sweep hose sprays too much
water out of the pool.
Solution: 1. Check the sweep hose scrubber
(#28) and replace it if it's worn or
missing (part #9-100-3105).
2. Decrease the sweep hose
action. See “Sweep Hose Adjust-
ment”on page 7.
3. Add a sweep hose weight
(part #B-2). See page 10.
Problem: Polaris goes in circles and
does not clean the entire pool.
Solution: 1.Check the wheel RPM. See page 7.
2. Adjust the thrust jet (#26) to make
the Polaris go in more of a straight
direction. See page 6.
3. Verify proper hose cutting and float
placement. See page 5.
Problem: Polaris will not climb walls.
Solution: 1. Check the wheel RPM. See page 7.
2. Position the thrust jet (#26) to
12:00 o'clock for maximum climbing
ability. See page 6.
3. Push the head float forward toward
the feed mast. See page 7.
4. Verify that the rear wheel is being
driven by the idler wheel. If not, push
the idler wheel (#2) downward to
dislodge any sand or dirt. If it will still
not move freely, remove the wheel
screw (#10) and pull the idler wheel
off the axle. Clean away any debris
caught under the wheel. It may
help to move the swing axle (#8)
downward several times. Reattach
the idler wheel.
Problem: Sweep hose is sucked into the
vacuum tube.
Solution: 1. Make sure the opening at the end
of the sweep hose (#4) is not block-
ed by the sweep hose scrubber (#28).
2. Adjust the sweep hose (#4) to a
gentle sweeping motion. See page 6.
Problem: Polaris runs on its side.
Solution: 1. Empty the bag (#24).
2. Check the head float (#31). If it's
full of water, remove and replace it
(part #A-20).
3. Check the floats (#48) on the feed
hose to make sure they are floating
and spaced evenly. See the “Prop-
erly Sized Feed Hose”diagram on
page 4.
Problem: Feed hose tangles or ties itself in
knots.
Solution: 1. Make sure the feed hose has
been cut properly. See page 5.
2. Verify the floats (#48) are floating
and spaced properly. See number
11 on page 6.
3. Check the wheel RPM. See page 7.
4. Make sure the swivels (#47)
are turning freely and the flow
arrows on all of the swivels are
pointing toward the cleaner.
5. Verify the back-up valve is cycling.
The jet should come on and go off. It
should stay off longer than it stays on.
Problem: Polaris will not stay on the
bottom; it floats around the pool.
Solution: 1. Check the wheel RPM. See page 7.
2. Verify the back-up valve is cycling.
The jet should come on and go off. It
should stay off longer than it stays on.
3. Move the head float away from the
feed mast.
11
IV.Troubleshooting the Polaris

4. Empty the sand/silt bag.
5. Verify the feed hose length and
float placement. See page 5.
Problem: Polaris moves too slowly.
Solution: 1. Check the filter screen (#41) in
the quick disconnect and clean, if
necessary.
2. Clean the skimmer, pool filter
and pump basket if they are dirty.
3. Check all of the hoses for
holes that could cause loss of
water pressure.
4. Verify that the rear wheel is
being driven by the idler wheel.
If it is not, refer to step 4 under
"Polaris will not climb walls" on
page 11.
5. Make sure the Polaris is
receiving adequate water pres-
sure. See number 5 on page 7.
Problem: The feed hose keeps discon-
necting from the wall fitting.
Solution: 1. Make sure the quick discon-
nect is firmly attached to the pool
wall. Align the two tracks on the
quick disconnect with the two
inner pegs of the universal wall
fitting. Twist clockwise 1/4 turn
and pull away from the pool wall
to secure.
2. Check the universal wall fitting
to ensure that the inner pegs are
not damaged.
Problem: The feed hose keeps discon-
necting at the swivels.
Solution: The nuts may have been installed
backwards. See the “Proper Nut
Placement”diagram on page 5.
12
Please Note: It is important to use genuine
Polaris replacement parts, because non-
Polaris parts may adversely affect the unit's
performance. Filter bags are an excellent
example; "generic" bags are not specifically
designed to work with the Polaris and can
cause operating problems.
B. Troubleshooting Worksheet
If none of the troubleshooting solutions worked,
please fill in the following information and either
contact your participating Polaris dealer or our
Customer Service Department at 1-800-VAC-SWEEP
(USA and Canada only) or [phone].
Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. PST.
In order to provide faster and more convenient
service, have the following information avail-
able at the time of your call or when taking the
Polaris in for service.
1. Serial #: ___________________
(See page 14 for the location of the serial #.)
2. Wheel RPM:________________
(See page 7.)
3. Is the back-up valve cycling?
(Watch the jet on the back-up valve. It should come
on and go off. It should stay off longer than it stays on.)
Yes No
4. Is the hose the proper length?
(See the diagram at the bottom of page 4.)
Yes No
Length of the clear hose: _____________
Length of the white hoses:____________
5. Is the hose floating properly?
(See number 11 at the top of page 6.)
Yes No
6. How often do you clean the
filter screen inside the quick
disconnect? (See page 9.)
Never Once a week
Twice a week Once a month
7. Is the vacuum jet obstructed?
(While the cleaner is operating, hold it upside down
and look into the vacuum tube. There should be
one distinct, even jet of water.)
Yes No

13
Polaris Booster Pump - Sold Separately
Minimum
of 3 feet
From
Pool
Filtration Pump Pool Filter Heater
Polaris
Booster Pump
Note: Plumb the booster pump up-
stream of all air inducing equipment.
To
Pool
Chlorinator
Solar
System
R
O
T
A
T
I
O
N
PUMP
SUPPLY
PUMP
DISCHARGE
13
1
3
5
6
2
8
9
10
12
11
9
14
4
7
YEL/BLK
BLACK
ORANGE
BROWN
WHITE
YELLOW
LOW VOLTAGE
LINE
LINE
1
4
5
6
YEL/BLK
BROWN
BLACK
ORANGE
WHITE
HIGH VOLTAGE
LINE
1
3
4
5
YELLOW LINE
6
NON
REVERSIBLE
No. Part # Description Qty
1 P-5 Volute (Includes drain plug) 1
2 P-15 Impeller 1
3 P-55 Seal, Stainless Steel Cup/Spring 1
4 P-95 O-ring, Bracket 1
5 P-10 Bracket 1
6 P-35 Bolt, Stainless, Bracket to Motor 2
7 P-40 O-ring for Shaft 1
8 P-61 Motor, 3/4 HP, Threaded Shaft 1
9 P-25 Bolt/Nut, Stainless, for Volute to Bracket 6
10 P-80 Rubber Strip, Motor/Bracket 1
11 P-70 Pump Stand with Feet, Strip 1
12 P-75 Rubber Feet 4
13 P-65 Bolt, Stainless, Stand to Bracket and Motor 2
14 P-20 1/8"NPTM Plug, Plastic 1
Typical Installation
PLEASE NOTE: All of the parts fit the PB3 Booster Pump produced in 1978 except P-20 and P-25. Call 1-800-VAC-SWEEP (USA
and Canada only) or [phone] for more information on the Polaris Booster Pump.

24
Install dished
side out
Serial
Number
26
19
3
11
18
10
10
27
12
21
18
3
3
21
1
36
16
23
11
11
9
11
31
33
18
19
M
A
D
E
I
N
U
S
A
25
11 30
29
6
4
37
28 35
2
3
1
33
19
15
27 3
17
7
5
8
13
3
14
To insure proper operation and long life for
the Polaris, be sure to insist on genuine
Polaris parts.

No. Part # Description Qty
1 C-45 Lock Washer for C-36 7
2 C-16 Idler Wheel, Small, White 1
3 C-60 Ball Bearings, Wheels 8
4 B-5 Sweep Hose Complete 1
5 C-25 Spring for C-36 1
6 C-30 Screw, 4-40 x 3/16" SS Pan Hd 1
7 C-32 Screw, 6-32 x 1/2" SS Pan Hd 1
8 C-36 Swing Axle Kit 1
9 A-10 Bottom, White with Bracket 1
10 C-55 Wheel Screw, Plastic 4
11 C-40 Screw, 10-32 x 3/8" SS Pan Hd 10
12 C-10 Tire, White 3
13 9-100-7170 HoseClamp forWater Management 2
System
14 C-120 Hose for C-110, 7 1/2" 1
15 A-5 Top, Blue 1
16 B-20 Adjustment Screw, Sweep Hose 1
17 C-65 Axle, Large (Rear Wheel Only) 1
18 C-70 Axle Plate for C-65/C-66 3
19 C-75 Screw/Nut, 10-32 x 7/8" SS Pan Hd 6
20 C-86 Drive Shaft Assembly 1
21 C-6 Wheel, Large (No Bearings) 3
22 C-110 Turbine Cover with Elbow 1
23 C-115 Elbow for C-110 or Feed Mast 2
24 A-16 All-Purpose Bag 1
25 C-80 Ball Bearings, Turbine 2
26 C-131 Thrust Jet Kit 1
27 C-64 Wheel Washer, Plastic 4
28 9-100-3105 Sweep Hose Scrubber 1
29 C-145 Frame, Exchange Only 1
30 C-83 Turbine Shaft Tubes 1
31 A-20 Float, Head 1
32 A-30 Screw,#10 x 1/2" SS Pan Hd, Self-tap 5
33 C-66 Axle, Large (with Sand/Gravel Guard) 2
34 A-40 Turbine Shaft Shield 1
35 B-25 Orifice Tip with Orifice Tip Guard 1
36 B-15 Sweep Hose Attach Clamp, White 1
37 B-10 Wear Rings 8
14
22
32
12
30
20
32
34
23
15

No. Part # Description Qty
38 9-100-9001 UWF Connector Assembly 1
39 10-108-00 UWF Restrictor Kit 1
40 6-500-00 Universal Wall Fitting 1
41 6-504-00 Filter Screen, UWF/QD 1
42 6-505-00 O-ring, UWF/QD 1
43 9-100-9002 Pressure Relief Valve, Black 1
44 D-29 Quick Disconnect, UWF 1
45 D-15 Nut, Feed Hose 10
46 *Adapter Hose, 8-1/2" 1
47 D-20 Swivel, Ball Bearing 3
48 D-10 Float, Feed Hose 9
49 D-45 Feed Hose, White, 10 Foot, Hard 2
50 D-50 Feed Hose, Clear, 10 Foot, Soft 1
51 G-52 Back-up Valve Kit 1
52 G-54 Case Kit for G-52 1
53 G-57 Collar, Back-up Valve 1
54 G-53 Mechanism for G-52 1
Parts Not Shown
A-15 Leaf Bag
A-47 Polaris 180 Factory Rebuild Kit
A-49 Polaris 180 Factory Tune-up Kit
B-2 Weight, Sweep Hose
C-11 Tire, Black
G-5 Feed Hose Complete w/UWF,
No Back-up Valve
G-9 Coupling, 1-1/2" NPTF x 3/4" NPTM
G-12 Over-the-deck Kit, UWF
G-21 Ladder Guard Set, 2 Panels
G-45 DisposableSand/Silt Bags, Pkg. 4,
6-550-00 Universal Wall Fitting, Black
9-100-3104 Feed Hose with Floats, White
9-100-3108 Feed Hose with Floats, Clear
9-100-9003 Street Ell
10-102-00 UWF Removal Tool, Plastic
11-203-00 Adjustable Plug, UWF
16
Pool
Wall
Second 10-foot
White Hose
10-foot Clear Hose
First 10-foot
White Hose
38
48 49 49
50 50
43 44424139 45 46 45 47
To The
Polaris
53
51 52
54
40
*Not sold separately.

17
Limited Warranty
Polaris Vac-Sweep 180 Automatic Swimming Pool Cleaner
This limited warranty is extended to the original consumer purchaser of this Polaris Vac-Sweep 180
Automatic Swimming Pool Cleaner manufactured by Polaris Pool Systems, 2620 Commerce Way, Vista,
California 92083-8438, USA.
Polaris warrants the cleaning unit it manufactures, including all parts and components thereof, to be
free of defects in material and workmanship. The booster pump is excluded in this warranty and carries
its own separate warranty. We do not cover bags, tires, sweep hoses or sweep hose scrubbers which have
been worn out by use. These are normal replacement items. We do not cover improper installation of the
Polaris 180, but our instruction manual is complete enough to solve any problems — particularly if it is
read before, rather than after, the installation. If you have any questions regarding your Polaris 180, please
feel free to write us. Be sure to include the serial number of your unit.
The warranty commences on the date of installation of the Polaris. The Polaris 180 frame is warranted
for a period of five years. The rest of the Polaris parts are warranted for a period of one year, but in no
event shall be in effect for more than two years from the date of manufacture of the unit as established by
the serial number. The one year limited warranty will be extended to two years from the date of installa-
tion if you return your completed warranty registration card to Polaris.
This limited warranty does not apply if the failure is caused or contributed to by any of the following:
improper handling, improper storage, winter freezing, abuse, improper installation, removal of the UWF
filter screen, unsuitable application of the unit, lack of reasonable and necessary maintenance, or repairs
made or attempted by other than Polaris or one of its Authorized Service Centers. Polaris will repair or
replace, at its option, a unit or part proved to be defective within the warranty period and under the con-
ditions of the warranty.
The consumer must deliver or ship the unit or warranty parts freight prepaid to the nearest Polaris
Authorized Service Center or return it freight prepaid (after proper authorization) to the plant of manu-
facture. Authorization to return a unit or part to the plant of manufacture must be obtained from the
Polaris Customer Service Department. Check with your dealer for the local procedure before exercising
this warranty. If further directions or instructions should be required, contact the Customer Service
Department at 1-800-VAC-SWEEP (USA and Canada only) or [phone]. Be sure you insure your
shipments against loss or damage in transit.
Polaris is not responsible for the cost of removal of the unit or part, damages due to removal, or any
other expenses incurred in shipping the unit or part to or from the factory or its Authorized Service Cen-
ters, or the installation of the repaired or replacement unit. The consumer must bear these expenses.
This warranty does not cover repair or replacement of a unit or part except at our factory or a Polaris
Authorized Service Center.
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED,
INCLUDING THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTIC-
ULAR PURPOSE, AND ALL SUCH OTHER WARRANTIES ARE DISCLAIMED EXCEPT TO THE
EXTENT ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY MAY BE IMPOSED BY STATE CONSUMER LAW. ANY SUCH
IMPLIED WARRANTY IMPOSED BY STATE CONSUMER LAW IS LIMITED IN DURATION TO ONE (1)
YEAR FROM DATE OF PURCHASE.
IN NO EVENT SHALL POLARIS BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES
OF ANY NATURE OR KIND OR FOR DAMAGES TO PERSONS OR PROPERTY, INCLUDING ANY
DAMAGE RESULTING FROM THE USE OF THE POLARIS 180 AUTOMATIC POOL CLEANER WITH
A SUBSTANDARD POOL CIRCULATION SYSTEM.
Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, or the exclusion or limita-
tion of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations may not apply to you.
This limited warranty is valid only in the United States of America, Canada and Australia, and it does
not apply to Polaris 180 Automatic Swimming Pool Cleaners sold or installed in any other country.

18

19