SwimEx SX400S User manual

OWNER'S MANUAL
An Instruction Manual For The SwimEx Aquatic Exercise Machine
Models SX400S, SX480S, SX500S & SX600S
SwimEx Systems
846 Airport Rd, Fall River, MA 02720
800-877-7946

TABLE OF CONTENTS
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS………………………..Preface
HOW THE SWIMEX WORKS/ SAFETY FEATURES………….. 1.0
WARNINGS & PRECAUTIONS…………………………………. 2.0
HOW TO OPERATE THE SWIMEX, A USER’S GUIDE………. 3.0
VARIATIONS & MAINTENANCE……………………………….4.0
TROUBLESHOOTING…………………………………………… 5.0
WATER QUALITY GUIDELINES………………………………..6.0
CUSTOMER SERVICE INFORMATION…………………………7.0
REPLACEMENT PARTS LIST………………………………… 8.0

HOW THE SWIMEX WORKS
The enclosed paddlewheel at the rear of the tank pulls water from the swim area and propels
it down and under the false-bottom floor, or side channels, of the SwimEx. The water is
guided forward, and when it reaches the front of the unit, it is turned back towards the swim
area, where it flows through the grille and into the swim area.
The water current is 18" to 36" inches deep, depending on the model, and is as wide as the
swim area. This current travels down the length of the swim area and is pulled through the
rear grate where the paddlewheel again propels the water through the system to create a
smooth, continuous water current.
Pneumatic (air) control buttons are used to "Start" and "Stop," and to adjust the water
current using the "Slow" and "Fast" buttons. These are located on the front wall of the swim
area. There is also a "Stop Bar" located on the top lip above the paddlewheel grille. In
addition to the "Stop" button located on the front lip of the pool, pushing or depressing the
“Stop Bar” with your hand will stop the paddlewheel. When air pulses, generated when you
depress a button, travel through the air tubes that connect these control buttons to the AC
Tech controller, they enter a sensor that turns them into electrical currents. Two types of air
pulses can be generated. By quickly depressing a button and immediately letting it up, a short
air pulse is generated. This is ideal for the “Start” and “Stop” buttons. Secondly, by
depressing and holding in a button for up to 3 seconds, a longer air pulse is generated which
will cause the electrical current in the AC Tech controller to last for the 3 seconds. This is
ideal for the “Fast” and “Slow” commands, as it allows for a longer response to increase or
decrease the water current speed.
The electrical current that is controlled by the air buttons regulates the power (amps) going
from the AC Tech controller to the paddlewheel motor. The amount of power sent to the
paddlewheel motor will determine the paddlewheel rotation speed, thus, controlling the water
current speed. Once it is set, the power output to the paddlewheel motor will remain steady,
ensuring that the water speed you have selected will remain constant.

SAFETY FEATURES
All SwimEx pools are made to the industry’s highest standards. These pools are made for a
lifetime of safe, fun swimming and exercising. Listed below are some of the major safety
features of SwimEx pools.
* Pneumatic (Air) Button Swimmer Controls: Stop, Start, Slow, and Fast air push
buttons let you adjust the current from inside the pool.
* Rear Shut-Off Bar: air tube mounted along the entire length of the rear of the pool -
push anywhere on the tube to immediately stop the current.
* E.T.L. (Electronic Testing Laboratories) Approved: the entire SwimEx pool and the
options have been tested and approval by E.T.L. under UL specifications for spas &
hot tubs (UL1563).
* Front and Rear Safety Grilles: 3/4" thick stainless steel front and rear grilles protect
the swimmer from the paddlewheel propulsion system. Additionally, the rear grille
(intake) openings are only 1/8" wide.
* Front and Side Handrails: stainless steel grab rails surround the water area for added
safety.
* Non-Skid Surface: the entire pool floor is manufactured with a non-skid surface that
will not wear down.
* Main Drain & Filter Intakes: the main drain is not accessible from the swim area.
There are two filter (water) intakes, or suction lines: one is not accessible from the swim
area, and the other is housed in a basket located in the skimmer.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
High speed settings can be threatening. Set water speed at a comfortable level for
each individual.
When set at full speed, the SwimEx is designed to provide strong swimmers with a
strenuous work-out. Warning: Improper use may result in serious injury or death.
Wear goggles every time you swim.
A qualified instructor must always be present.
Never dive in the swim area.
Never turn on the machine when the floating cover is in place.
Never enter the swim area unless the floating cover is completely removed and stored
away.
Never press your body against the rear grate. Do not permit objects to block the
grate.
Do not take apart, or attempt to adjust the electronic controller. Serious injury or
death may occur. Contact a licensed electrician or the SwimEx Customer Service
Department.
Never run the filter system's pump when the shut-off valves are in the off position.
This will cause severe damage to the system, and will burn out the pump. (The shut-
off valves are located on the water lines running from the SwimEx: 2 valves to the
filter system and back from the filter system to the SwimEx, and 1 valve at the eyeball
inlet.)
Keep the water level at the prescribed amounts. Low water levels will cause noisy
operation due to air in the system. Also, high speed operation at low water levels
could damage the machine. High water levels will not damage the SwimEx but will
cause excess splashing and will create waves, not the smooth current that is desired.
Always check the water quality and temperature before using the SwimEx, and adjust
as needed.

HOW TO OPERATE THE SWIMEX
Make sure to read this entire manual BEFORE using your SwimEx. Read and comply with
the directions on the instructional decal located on the inside front wall of the SwimEx.
The following is the SwimEx User's Guide. We recommend keeping the original copy intact
with this manual, and also keeping a waterproof copy near the SwimEx for easy reference, or
for guest's use.

SWIMEX USER'S GUIDE
Always consult your physician before using the SwimEx, or before beginning any
exercise or therapy program.
Never swim alone.
Never dive into the SwimEx.
Wear swim goggles at all times, and a bathing cap when necessary.
Make sure the floating thermal blanket is removed from the swim area and stored
away before starting the paddlewheel.
Keep water filled to the prescribed level:*
1/4" above the front lip for the 5 HP drive system
1/2" above the front lip for the 7.5 HP drive system
*The following is a more accurate way to adjust the water level: Fill the unit slightly
higher than normal. Submerge yourself up to your neck. By pressing the fast button,
bring the water current up to full speed. Slowly drain the water from the pool until
the water current (coming out of the front grate) is smooth and FLAT. (No Waves or
Air Bubbles!) Stop draining. This is your ideal water level.
Check the water temperature and chemical levels, and adjust as needed.
1) Enter the swim area via the ladder or stairs located in the rear of the SwimEx.
2) Move to the front of the swim area where the swimmer's control panel is located.
3) Press the START button (this activates/starts the paddlewheel).
4) Press the FAST button until desired water speed is reached -- allow approximately
30 seconds for the current to reach this speed.
5) Slightly adjust the water speed, as needed. To change the water speeds, use either
the SLOW or FAST buttons until you reach your desired speed. (Remember to

allow approximately 30 seconds for the SwimEx to reach the desired speed.)
6) Start swimming against the current and pace yourself to stay in a stationary
position.
7) Keep your head over the arrow's cross (located on the SwimEx’s floor); this will
keep you in the ideal swimming location. When swimming on your back, use an
overhead mark to keep yourself in the ideal swimming location.
8) Do not allow anything to obstruct the front or rear grates.
9) To stop swimming, walk or swim up to the swimmer's control panel and depress the
STOP button. This will stop the paddlewheel. The rear shut-off tube can also be
used to stop the paddlewheel.
10)Exit the SwimEx using the ladder or stairs.
11)Replace the floating thermal blanket, or other suitable cover.

VARIATIONS
Various swimming aids may be used in the SwimEx to enhance training, or for variation.
Among the items available are:
* Kickboards * Hand paddles/swim mitts
* Mask, fins, snorkel * Flotation vests/Aquajogger
* "Pull" buoys/boards * Life Line (Rope)
NOTE: Do not let these aids get pulled into the rear grate. This may cause severe damage
to the paddlewheel drive system. After you are done using these swimming aids, store them
outside of the swim area.
MAINTENANCE
DAILY:
* Check/Test water quality, adjust as needed.
(See Section 6.0)
* Local water conditions, usage, temperature, evaporation rate and other factors must
be taken into consideration when planning and maintaining your water quality control.
See your local water chemical supplier for information. It is best to take a sample of
your pool water with you for accurate analysis and local professional advice.
Remember that the SwimEx holds approximately 2,600 gallons of water (3,200 gallons
for Models SX480S & SX600S), therefore, requiring only small amounts of chemicals,
if needed.
* Check/adjust water level.
5 HP SwimEx: 1/4" above front inside wall
7.5 HP SwimEx: 1/2" above front inside wall
* Check skimmer for any objects.
* Check water temperature; adjust heater thermostat if needed.

WEEKLY:
* "Bleed" the filter (release the air- please refer to Manufacturer's Manual). For heavy use,
bleed the filter daily.
* Check the hair catcher, which is located just before the filter pump, for any objects, and
remove if needed.
* Clean the sides of the SwimEx at the water line (scum line). We recommend wiping the
side walls with a clean, wet towel/rag, at least once a week or as needed.
* Check to make sure all electrical equipment is functioning properly: i.e. Ozonator,
heater, etc. (See Manufacturer's Manual)
MONTHLY:
* Check filtration pressure. (Refer to Manufacturer's Manual)
* Clean filter cartridge. (See Manufacturer's Manual)
Light use: Every 3-4 months
Medium use: Every 2-3 months
Heavy use: Weekly or as needed
NOTE: Use the following as a guide for usage rates.
Light use: 0-2 hours of daily operation/3-4 x week.
Medium use: 2-4 hours of daily operation.
Heavy use: Over 4 hours of daily operation.
* Check all electrical connections, all ground wire connections, and test all circuit
breakers for proper function.
YEARLY:
* Replace filter cartridge (See Manufacturer's Manual). Check manual for size. Most local
pool stores carry replacement filters, or you can call the SwimEx Customer Service
Department. For heavy use, replace filter often, as needed.
* Clean out the air vent holes on the filter pump motor (use a vacuum or a blow unit using
compressed air- See the Manual).

MAINTENANCE CONTINUED
* Lubricate and grease paddlewheel shaft bearings using a waterproof, lithium-based
grease.
Light use: Every year
Medium use: Every year
Heavy use: Every 6 months
* Change paddlewheel motor gear box oil per manufacturer's instructions.
Light use: Every 2 years -- fill to "continuous oil level"
Medium use: Every year -- fill to "continuous oil level"
Heavy use: Every year -- fill to "continuous oil level"
SwimEx recommends using synthetic gear oil, such as "Mobil SHC 634", which is the gear
oil supplied in the gearbox. (The capacity for the 7.5 HP gearbox is 8 pints -- the 5 HP’s
capacity is 4 pints.) SwimEx stocks this oil. Contact the SwimEx Customer Service
Department for details at 800-877-7946.
* Lubricate the electric (paddlewheel) motor per manufacturer's instructions.
Light use: Every year
Medium use: Every year
Heavy use: Every year
* Check all control-button air-tube lines to make sure they are securely attached to the air
buttons and to the controller. Also, inspect for any crimps or obstructions in the air
lines.
AS NEEDED
* Vacuuming: For the mini vacuum system - follow manufacturer's instructions.
* Cleaning of Fiberglass Surfaces: A "Fantastic" or "Soft-Scrub" type of cleaner works
well. For mineral stains, "Lime-A-Way" is the recommended cleaner. They can all be
found in most retail stores’ cleaning agent section. Use a clean, dry cloth, and be careful
not to get the cleaner in the swim area water. If the SwimEx needs to be drained to
reach these stains, simply open the main drain water shut-off valve located under the
front section of the SwimEx. (Refer to SwimEx Installation Manual.) Turn this valve to
the closed position before refilling with fresh water. For tough stains, a fiberglass
polishing compound should be used. Buff out the stain with a clean buffing pad. If this

compound is used, the fiberglass surfaces should be waxed. Do not wax the top lip of
the pool. A liquid polymer wax such as “Nu Finish” will stand up best, or you can use
any type of fiberglass boat wax that also stands up well to constant warm water
exposure. You should clean, polish, and wax your fiberglass surfaces if the surfaces
start to "yellow" or stain, as needed. For severe stains, call SwimEx. To prevent staining
due to minerals in your local water supply, see Section 6.0: Water Quality Guidelines.
* Maintenance Charts: The following are SwimEx maintenance charts. We recom-
mend keeping the original copies intact with this manual, and keeping waterproof copies
near the pool for quick reference.

TROUBLESHOOTING
Keep all manufacturers’ manuals handy and refer to them as needed.
* If machine shuts down and will not start:
Press the STOP button and then press the START button.
If this does not work, go to the circuit breaker panel, and flip the circuit breaker to the
electronic controller “off.” Wait 5 minutes then turn the circuit breaker back
"on". DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DO THIS WHILE YOU ARE WET! Now pressthe
START button.
NOTE: The AC Tech electronic controller will shut down the machine if unusual
electrical or mechanical problems arise. The controller has a built-in G.F.I.
(ground fault interrupter) circuit built into it for equipment protection. This
monitors the current going to the paddlewheel motor. If there is an imbalance
in the amps going to the paddlewheel motor, which can occur for a number
of reasons, this G.F.I. electronic breaker will shut off, thus, shutting down the
machine. The controller must be reset by depressing the STOP button; it will
then be ready for a start command. If the machine shuts off again, there is a
problem, and it must be handled by a licensed electrician. You may also call the
SwimEx Customer Service Department.
* If too many air bubbles are coming out of the water return eyeball: (The water
line from filter to swim area.) Note: A small amount of air bubbles is normal if you are
using an Ozonator.
Check to see that the air trapped inside the filter is released by "bleeding" the
filter (refer to manufacturer's manual).
Check for any obstructions in the skimmer basket or hair catcher.
Check for any leaks in the water lines.
* If filtration system problems (heater, pump and filter) arise:
Refer to Manufacturer's Owner's Manual or call SwimEx.
* If paddlewheel is making strange noises:

Make sure you have the proper water level.
Make sure there is nothing blocking the rear grille.
Did you lubricate the paddlewheel shaft bearings? (See maintenance section.)
* If air is getting "sucked" into the paddlewheel, causing air bubbles to flow
through the system and exit out the front grille into the swim area:
Check to make sure nothing is blocking the rear grille covering the paddlewheel.
Check swim area water level and adjust if needed.
To remove the air trapped in the system, simply stop the paddlewheel by
depressing the STOP button. This will "burp" the air out of the SwimEx. Before
re-starting, make sure there is nothing blocking the rear grille, and be sure the
water is at the proper level.

CUSTOMER SERVICE INFORMATION
The SwimEx Customer Service Department is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday
through Friday. The Customer Service phone number is 800-877-7946. Our Customer
Service Department staff is extensively trained and very knowledgeable. We ask that you call
only AFTER you have reviewed the proper procedures outlined in the SwimEx Owner's
Manual, and after you have reviewed the manufacturers’ owners manuals outlined below.
Note: Make sure to have your serial numbers and model numbers available before calling.
Pump & Filter Units:
Pentair Pool Products,
Technical Services [phone]
Any questions or problems relating to the water circulation, filter operation, etc.
Electronic Controller:
AC Technology Corp.
[phone]
Please have your electrician call with any questions or problems concerning the electronic
controller (i.e. LED warning/caution lights light-up, you cannot start the SwimEx after
reviewing and following procedures outlined in the SwimEx Installation Manual, etc.)
Ozonator (Model CD4000):
PureZone
[phone] (US & Canada)
[phone]
Any questions or problems concerning your ozonator, or water quality if you are using an
ozonator to purify your water.
.

Pool Heaters:
Electric:
Coates Heater Company, Inc.
253-872-7256
Gas:
Pentair Pool Prod.,
Model Minimax 100
800-831-7133
Skimmer:
Hayward Pool Products, Inc.
909-594-1600 (USA)
905-829-2880 (Canada)
Swimometer:
Any questions or problems concerning the swimometer, call SwimEx Customer Service at
800-877-7946.
The SwimEx Customer Service Department will gladly assist you with areas of
interest and concern NOT listed above.

SWIMEX PARTS RETURN POLICY
In order to allow SwimEx to more efficiently track parts returned to us and to properly
account for their costs, the system described below has been instituted. In order for this
procedure to eliminate parts handling problems that have occurred in the past, you as a dealer
or retail customer must assist by following the steps outlined below. If any questions arise,
please contact the SwimEx Customer Service Department PRIOR to shipping parts to us.
All parts being returned to SwimEx must have a Return Authorization number assigned to
them prior to their shipment. This R.A. number will be assigned by the Customer Service
Department only. In the case of parts to be returned after the receipt of replacement parts or
of a follow up order, a highly visible yellow shipping label indicating the R.A. number will be
included with the outgoing order. This same label will be mailed to you in the case of parts
being returned with no replacement or follow up parts order. It is an absolute necessity that
this label be used; packages arriving without such identification will be refused by the TPI
Receiving Department, and subject to return shipment or storage charges at the sender's
expense.
Parts shipped to dealers or retail customers as warranty replacement orders will originally be
invoiced to the dealer's or retail customer's account. Upon receipt and a determination that
warranty coverage is to be extended, SwimEx will move the charges from the customer's
account and transfer the order to the appropriate warranty account. If return warranty parts
are not received within 30 days, the billing for the shipment of new parts remains on the
dealer's or retail customer's account, and will be treated as a regular parts order.
Parts returned by dealers or retail customers will be subject to a fifteen percent restocking fee
in cases NOT involving defective, mis-shipped, or warranty merchandise.

WATER QUALITY GUIDELINES
After totally cleaning and rinsing the pool, fill the SwimEx with water to the proper level. No
matter how you are going to treat (purify) the water, it must first be shocked with chemicals.
Even if you are using an ozonator, this must be done. We recommend using a dry/granular
chlorine, an algaecide, and a de-mineralizer.
During the filling process you will need to add three 1/2 cup measurements of chlorine (1 1/2
cups total). The first time is when you begin filling the unit. Allow the water to rise
approximately 2" above the floor, and then spread the first 1/2 cup of chlorine over the water.
When the unit is halfway filled, spread the second 1/2 cup of chlorine. The third 1/2 cup is
spread when the unit is filled to the proper level. You should now have 1-1/2 cups of
dry/granular chlorine in your unit.
After the unit is filled, add the algaecide per directions on the container. Add the
de-mineralizer per directions on the container. Now, run your filter system for 48 hours.
After the filter has been on for 48 hours you need to:
1) Adjust your PH. The PH should always be between 7.2 - 7.6 (Ideal 7.4).
2) Clean your filter.
Now test the "total alkalinity" of the water. You should take a sample of the water to a local
pool store for this analysis. The total alkalinity should be in the 100-120 ppm range. If it is
not, ask your local pool company what kind of chemicals to put in the water, and the
amounts of each needed to bring the total alkalinity to the appropriate range. Test yearly.
Keeping the total alkalinity in the proper range will also help to stabilize your PH.
Normal water maintenance begins after the 48 hour filter period. The following is a guideline to
keep your water clean and sparkling:
NOTE: THESE ARE GUIDELINES ONLY! Local water conditions, swimmer
usage, temperature and other factors may require variations in your water
maintenance. We also recommend having a local swimming pool maintenance
company on file, in case you experience difficulty in maintaining your water quality.
If you are using an ozonator, follow the manufacturer's start-up and water preparation guidelines.
In most cases, a chemical to "de-mineralize" the water is recommended by the manufacturer. The
Aqua-Doc also does this, but over a long period of time (2-3 weeks). If you are not using ozone,
check with your local chemical supplier for proper amounts, levels, testing procedures, etc.,

depending on what type of chemicals you will be using.
WATER QUALITY GUIDELINES CONT'D.
Important Note: We recommend a water softening system be used to remove all minerals
(iron, copper, magnesium, etc.) from your water supply to prevent staining. (Chemical
additives remove a large portion of these minerals, but even small amounts can stain the pool
surface.) This system must be located on the water supply (fill) line before filling the
SwimEx with water.
If the pool's surface begins to stain (usually a light-brownish color), it could be due to
"colbalting" - a reaction of the pool's surface to the chemicals in the water. If you suspect
that this is the case with your pool, we recommend using a chemical agent called "KEETROL
PLUS". Keetrol Plus is odorless, colorless, tasteless, and will start to work immediately if
the stain is due to colbalting. It can be obtained at most local pool stores. Follow the
directions on the container.

IMPORTANT WARRANTY INFORMATION
After your SwimEx installation is completed, it is extremely important to fill out and return
the warranty cards to the respective manufacturers. These cards (packed with the individual
item) need to be on file with the manufacturer in order to complete and expedite any
warranty claims. Warranty cards that need to be returned include: SwimEx Systems, AC
Technologies, Electra Gear, and Coates.