Blog Header Logo

How to Replace a Pool Pump Motor

Your pool pump motor has died. What now? If repairing the motor isn't an option and buying a new pump isn't necessary, it's time for a replacement motor. Pool pump motor replacement is a common practice among pool owners.

Replacing a Pool Pump Motor

The most common reasons why a motor would need to be replaced include failed bearings, corrosion inside and/or outside the motor, failed start and run capacitors, and motor age.

Here are a few important tips to remember while replacing your pool pump motor:

Pool pump oower off
Turn pump power off during replacement

Wrench and tools
Gather the proper tools and supplies

Proper motor reassembly
Double check your work after reassembling

  • Gloves 
  • Safety Glasses
  • Closed-Toed Shoes
  • Replacement Motor
  • Go-Kit specific to pump
  • Pool and Spa Lube
  • 9/16” Socket or Wrench & 7/16” Wrench
  • Standard and Phillips Screwdrivers
  • Strap Wrench or Impeller Puller

Steps to Replace a Pool Pump Motor

Shut off power to the pump at the breaker to prevent unintended operation of equipment and for safety precautions. Remove the electrical whip from the rear of the motor. Using tape and a pen, mark the hot, neutral, and ground wires.

Depending on the pump model, remove the clamp assembly or 9/16” bolts holding the seal plate to the pump housing. Carefully remove the motor and rear of the pump from the pump housing and place it on a table or workbench. Remove the diffuser.

Use the 7/16” wrench or appropriate size wrench to hold the rear of the motor shaft and prevent motor shaft rotation. Using the strap wrench or impeller, puller remove the pump impeller.

Remove the mechanical pump seal from the seal plate and impeller. Wipe down and clean the components being reused during assembly. Using the appropriate Go-Kit (per the pump model), replace the mechanical pump seal.

Remove the new motor from its packaging and place the seal plate on the motor in the appropriate orientation and complete installation with the 9/16” bolts.

Use the 7/16” wrench to hold the rear of the motor shaft and prevent the shaft from rotating. Install the impeller on the now secured motor shaft until the impeller is hand tight.

Bring reassembled motor and rear of pump to pool area and slide the motor and rear of pump into the pump housing. Secure the seal plate to the pump housing using the clamp assembly or 9/16” bolts.

Connect the electrical whip securely. Turn on the breaker to provide power to the motor. Turn on the pump to test for leaks and pump operation.


There you have it. You now have the know-how to replace a pool pump motor. If any of this sounds overwhelming, don’t worry; we’re here to help. Fill out a service request online to schedule one of our trained and professional service technicians to complete the task for you. For other questions, visit or contact your local Leslie's store.

Essential Products

Pool Pump Parts

Pump Parts

Pool Pump Motors

Pump Motors

Leslie's Equipment Services

Leslie's Services



JUMP IN WITH US ON SOCIAL!
Facebook  Twitter X  YouTube  Instagram
Leslie’s makes every effort to provide accurate recommendations based upon current ANSI/APSP/ICC-5 2011 (R2022) standards, but codes and regulations change, and Leslie’s assumes no liability for any omissions or errors in this article or the outcome of any project. You must always exercise reasonable caution, carefully read the label on all products, follow all product directions, follow any current codes and regulations that may apply, and consult with a licensed professional if in doubt about any procedures. Leslie’s assumes no legal responsibility for your reliance or interpretation of the data contained herein, and makes no representations or warranties of any kind concerning the quality, safety, or suitability of the information, whether express or implied, including, without limitation, any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.