This is not so much a question as it is a suggestion.

I recently purchased a Hayward W3S244T sand filter.  I read the Owners Manual twice before installation and kept it handy during install.  I got everything hooked up and turned on the pump, and behold, there was a drip coming from the drain cap.  Tightening had no effect.  After investigation I realized that the drain screen insert was protruding about 1/8 inch.  There was no way it was going to seal.  I did manage to figure out that the cap was also a tool for screwing in the sand screen.  But alas, 300+ pounds of sand and the grit of the sand was making it very difficult to reposition the screen.  It took a rather special tool and condiderable effort to get that thing to move.  I did finally get it in place and the cap now seals.

Also, my search of the internet revealed that I am not the only one with this issue.  Shame on Hayword for not assembling the filter correctly.

My suggestion is to make it very clear to customers to check this screen before installation, and to tell them how to make it right before installation.  I will be passing this information on to Hayward as well.

Thanks