StarzTruck® Automatic Suction Pool Cleaner for Concrete and Vinyl/Fiberglass Pools
Model Number
Aqua Blue/White
SZT1601-H Concrete
SZTV1601-H Vinyl/Fiberglass
Support Files
Features
Programmed movement for better cleaning
Efficient, quiet operation
Highly engineered for durability
Simple installation, no additional tools required
Easy grip roll bar handle
Private label grill insert available
Patent-pending design
Kit includes cleaner, nine connector hoses, one leader hose, regulator valve, skimmer cone, safety vacuum lock wall fitting, flow gauge and owner’s manual
1 per case, 16 per pallet
Also available:
SZTxxxx Cleaner only (no hoses) – concrete
1 per case, 64 per pallet
SZTVxxxx Cleaner only (no hoses) –
vinyl/fiberglass
1 per case, 64 per pallet
Product Dimensions
Click to enlarge
StarzTruck FAQ
Click on a question to see the answer. If you do not see your question below scroll down to the bottom to send us your question.
What should I know before installing the StarzTruck?
Before installing the StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner:
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Check the suction levels using the flow gauge the unit comes with. Ensure that the suction is between the Min and Max line. Failure to do this may result in premature wear of the cleaners mechanical parts. If the flow is beyond the Max line, use the regulator valve (HWN161) to reduce flow.
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Manually clean/vacuum the pool and clean all skimmer, pump and debris baskets.
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Clean or backwash the filter.
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Check that the water is at its proper level.
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Check water chemistry. Make sure the pool is free from excess algae to ensure proper operation of the StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner.
Never use the StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner to remove plaster/pebble debris in new or remodeled pools.
Always remove the StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner before backwashing or chemically shocking the pool.
Always store the hoses for the cleaner straight. DO NOT COIL!
Always remove the StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner and hoses before swimmers enter the pool. It is not a toy and is not intended for children to play with.
THE STARZTRUCK CLEANER IS NOT INTENDED TO PULL OR TOW ANY THIRD-PARTY ATTACHMENTS. ANY ADDITIONAL UNINTENDED DRAG CAUSED BY THIRD-PARTY ATTACHMENTS CAN PREMATURELY WEAR DOWN THE COMPONENTS AND MAY
VOID THE WARRANTY DUE TO IMPROPER USE.
How does the StarzTruck install?
Step 1: Connecting and submerging the hoses and cleaner
There are nine connector hoses and one leader hose with a gray hose cuff. The hose cuff connects to the top of the StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner (see Fig. 1).
Connect the StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner hose sections by pushing and twisting the tapered male connector end of each hose firmly into the open female end of the adjacent hose section (see Fig. 2). Depending on the size and shape of your pool, all hose sections might not be used. The hose should reach from the skimmer or safety vacuum lock wall fitting to the furthest point in the pool plus one extra hose section. If the hose is not long enough, it will be necessary to purchase additional hose sections from your pool dealer. After the correct hose length has been assembled, fill the hose completely with water by lowering the attached StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner and then vertically pushing the hose down, allowing all the air to escape. If optional leaf canister is purchased, install between first and second hose sections (see Fig. 3).
Step 2: Connecting to suction
Connect the skimmer cone adapter to the regulator valve and then insert the skimmer cone into:
A. The suction port of the skimmer (see Fig. 4) or
B. The wall port safety vacuum lock without a three-way or ball valve (see Fig. 5)
Without the skimmer cone and regulator valve, insert the male end of the hose directly into the safety vacuum lock wall fitting port with a three-way or ball valve (see Fig. 6)
Step 3: Testing the flow
Connect the skimmer cone adapter to the regulator valve and then insert the skimmer cone into:
A. The suction port of the skimmer (see Fig. 4) or
B. The wall port safety vacuum lock without a three-way or ball valve (see Fig. 5)
Without the skimmer cone and regulator valve, insert the male end of the hose directly into the safety vacuum lock wall fitting port with a three-way or ball valve (see Fig. 6)
Step 5: Adjusting your StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner
The rear flap tension adjuster is preset to II. When the StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner seems to be spending too much time against steps, vertical walls and other obstructions, turn the rear flap tension adjuster to position I (see Fig. 9). Sometimes adjusting your flow valve up or down will also help. Custom pools with interior bar stools, fountains, planters, etc., will require someone to physically free the cleaner in the case that its becomes trapped. The StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner will climb vertical walls in concrete and fiberglass pools (not vinyl) if there is at least a 12-inch radius where the floor meets the walls. The cleaner will not climb or go all the way up the wall every time due to the programmed gearbox. If the StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner is not sticking to the wall, set the rear flap tension adjuster to position III (see Fig. 9) and/or adjust your regulator valve(s). If the cleaner climbs above the waterline and sucks in air, set the rear flap tension adjuster to position I (see Fig. 9) and/or adjust your regulator valve(s).
Step 5: Adjusting your StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner
The rear flap tension adjuster is preset to II. When the StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner seems to be spending too much time against steps, vertical walls and other obstructions, turn the rear flap tension adjuster to position I (see Fig. 9). Sometimes adjusting your flow valve up or down will also help. Custom pools with interior bar stools, fountains, planters, etc., will require someone to physically free the cleaner in the case that its becomes trapped. The StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner will climb vertical walls in concrete and fiberglass pools (not vinyl) if there is at least a 12-inch radius where the floor meets the walls. The cleaner will not climb or go all the way up the wall every time due to the programmed gearbox. If the StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner is not sticking to the wall, set the rear flap tension adjuster to position III (see Fig. 9) and/or adjust your regulator valve(s). If the cleaner climbs above the waterline and sucks in air, set the rear flap tension adjuster to position I (see Fig. 9) and/or adjust your regulator valve(s).
Does the StarzTruck work with third-party products?
Although the StarzTruck may be able to operate with third-party products, we have found that attaching third-party accessories to the StarzTruck cleaner can cause pre-mature wear.
Attachments such as floating skimmers can cause additional drag on the unit that can quickly wear out mechanical parts.
Using third-party products with the StarzTruck cleaner may void the warranty unit. Please use only approved AquaStar accessories to ensure proper functionality.
Troubleshoot - Cleaner climbs to the surface and sucks air
These are the three common reasons why your cleaner is experiencing these problems and their solutions. Please troubleshoot in the order they are listed:
Cause #1 - Too much/improper water flow through cleaner
Start by checking the suction.
Ensure that the hose is full of water and that your pump is running. Remove the StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner from the hose, then insert the flow gauge into the leader hose. Make sure the flow gauge is underwater and with the opposite end of the hose attached to a dedicated suction or skimmer port observe the flow gauge. The optimal level is between the MAX and MIN lines of the flow gauge. If the setting is higher than the MAX marking, it will be necessary to reduce the flow using the Regulator Valve.
Adjust water flow by attaching your Regulator Valve (HWN161) before connecting the first hose, this would be a dedicated Vacuum Lock Wall Fitting or directly into your Skimmer Cone (HWN152).
Cause #2 - Improper tension on rear flap
Turn rear flap adjuster to I.
The rear flap tension adjuster is preset to II. When the StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner seems to be spending too much time against steps, vertical walls and other obstructions, turn the rear flap tension adjuster to position I. Sometimes adjusting your flow valve up or down will also help.
Custom pools with interior bar stools, fountains, planters, etc., will require someone to physically free the cleaner in the case that its becomes trapped.
The StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner will climb vertical walls in concrete and fiberglass pools (not vinyl) if there is at least a 12-inch radius where the floor meets the walls. The cleaner will not climb or go all the way up the wall every time due to the programmed gearbox.
If the StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner is not sticking to the wall, set the rear flap tension adjuster to position III (see Fig. 9) and/or adjust your regulator valve(s).
If still climbing too much, reduce water flow until the proper operation is achieved.
Cause #3 - Steering Failure
1. Check and clean rear screen
2. Check to see that cone gear is free and rotates smoothly in both directions
3. Check medium turbine and spindle gear assemblies for malfunction. This will require the unit be disassembled, if you are not comfortable with the cleaner’s assembly please seek professional help.
Troubleshoot - Cleaner head floats
Cause #1 – Cleaner head or return line has air in it
Remove all air from cleaner head.
Stop all air from entering the pool through the return lines.
If cleaner head and hose are covered with fine bubbles, give the hose a good tug. This will release the air bubbles and allow the cleaner head to settle to the bottom of the pool until the hose is covered with bubbles again
Cause #2 – Improper cleaner model
StarzTruck comes in both a concrete and vinyl model. If the improper model is being used it may result with the cleaner head floating.
Ensure you are using the correct model by turning the unit upside down and reading the part number on the access cover of the unit. For concrete pools the model number should read HWN149xx and for vinyl it should read HWN149Vxx.
Troubleshoot - Slow/no forward movement
These are the five common reasons why your cleaner is experiencing these problems and their solutions. Please troubleshoot in the order they are listed:
Cause #1 - Too much/improper water flow through cleaner
Start by checking the suction.
Ensure that the hose is full of water and that your pump is running. Remove the StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner from the hose, then insert the flow gauge into the leader hose. Make sure the flow gauge is underwater and with the opposite end of the hose attached to a dedicated suction or skimmer port observe the flow gauge. The optimal level is between the MAX and MIN lines of the flow gauge. If the setting is higher than the MAX marking, it will be necessary to reduce the flow using the Regulator Valve.
Adjust water flow by attaching your Regulator Valve (HWN161) before connecting the first hose, this would be a dedicated Vacuum Lock Wall Fitting or directly into your Skimmer Cone (HWN152).
Cause #2 – Partial obstruction of StarzTruck throat
Should the StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner stop moving or become sluggish due to debris trapped in the throat or inside the unit, the turbine/vacuum chamber is accessible following these instructions.
1. Turn off the pump.
2. Remove StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner from the pool.
3. Disconnect StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner from leader hose.
4. Turn StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner upside down.
5. Locate and loosen the captive screw behind the throat in the center of the bottom.
6. Lift fixed access cover.
7. Clean turbine/vacuum chamber.
8. Check turbine for free movement.
9. Reinstall the fixed access cover by lining it up with the two slots. Slide the cover in place and tighten the captive screw.
10. Reinstall StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner in pool per installation instructions.
Cause #3 – Worn Shoes
The pod shoes have wear indicators on their sides and should occasionally be checked to determine if replacement is needed. The shoe wear indicator is a line on the side of the pod shoe that appears as a difference in texture. When this texture difference is no longer visible at the bottom of the shoe when viewed from either side, the shoes must be changed.
POD SHOES REPLACEMENT PART NUMBERS
HWN114 – Pod Shoes: Vinyl and Fiberglass (4 Pack)
HWN115 – Pod Shoes: Concrete (4 Pack)
POD SHOE REPLACEMENT
A. Turn the unit upside down.
B. Insert a screwdriver between foot and shoe on one of the pods.
C. Using a lifting motion, remove the shoe from the foot.
D. Dip a new shoe in water and attach the shoe to the foot, making sure to put the small post into the small hole and the large post into the large hole. These posts and holes are different sizes to prevent the shoes from being improperly installed.
E. Repeat steps b, c and d for each shoe.
POD SHOES REPLACEMENT PART NUMBERS
HWN114 – Pod Shoes: Vinyl and Fiberglass (4 Pack)
HWN115 – Pod Shoes: Concrete (4 Pack)
Cause #4 – Worn Wings
The pod shoes and wings have wear indicators on their sides and should occasionally be checked to determine if replacement is needed. The wing wear indicator is located on the side and is a horizontal line which has three vertical lines above it. When you can no longer see the horizontal line, the wings must be replaced.
WINGS REPLACEMENT PART NUMBERS:
HWN11701 – White Wing Kit: Left and Right Wings
HWN11703 – Light Gray Wing Kit: Left and Right Wings
WING REPLACEMENT
A. Using a screwdriver, remove the plugs from both pods.
B. Remove the old wings by bending the wings up toward the sides of the cleaner, and lift them off their hooks. If any of the wing hooks are broken, take the StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner to your dealer for pod replacement as the cleaner will not function properly if the wings are not properly attached.
C. Attach new wings, making sure that you match the “L” (left) and “R” (right) wings to the corresponding pods.
D. Replace the pod plugs and tap them into place
WINGS REPLACEMENT PART NUMBERS:
HWN11701 – White Wing Kit: Left and Right Wings
HWN11703 – Light Gray Wing Kit: Left and Right Wings
Cause #5 – Worn Pods
POD REPLACEMENT PART NUMBERS
HWN11601 – White Pod Kit: Left and Right Pods, Plugs, Screws, Washers
HWN11603 – Light Gray Pod Kit: Left and Right Pods, Plugs, Screws, Washers
POD REPLACEMENT
A. Using a screwdriver, remove the plugs from the pod (see Fig. 14).
B. Unscrew and remove the hex bolt that was covered by the plug.
C. Remove pod by placing equal pressure on both ends of the pod until it releases from the cleaner body.
D. Install new pod and replace and tighten hex bolt. Ensure that the pod moves smoothly and freely.
POD REPLACEMENT PART NUMBERS
HWN11601 – White Pod Kit: Left and Right Pods, Plugs, Screws, Washers
HWN11603 – Light Gray Pod Kit: Left and Right Pods, Plugs, Screws, Washers
Troubleshoot - Cleaner is going in circles
These are the four common reasons why your cleaner is experiencing these problems and their solutions. Please troubleshoot in the order they are listed:
Cause #1 – Tubing Is Being Stored Improperly
Tubing must be stored straight and NEVER COILED otherwise the tubing can become permanently coiled and cause the cleaner to go in circles. For new tubing use the following part numbers.
TUBING REPLACEMENT PART NUMBERS
SZTH01 – 4 Foot Regular Hose
SZTHL01 – 4 Foot Leader Hose
HOSE REPLACEMENT PART NUMBERS
SZTHL – 4 Foot Leader Hose
SZTH – 4 Foot Regular Hose
Cause #2 – Worn Shoes
The pod shoes have wear indicators on their sides and should occasionally be checked to determine if replacement is needed. The shoe wear indicator is a line on the side of the pod shoe that appears as a difference in texture. When this texture difference is no longer visible at the bottom of the shoe when viewed from either side, the shoes must be changed.
POD SHOES REPLACEMENT PART NUMBERS
HWN114 – Pod Shoes: Vinyl and Fiberglass (4 Pack)
HWN115 – Pod Shoes: Concrete (4 Pack)
POD SHOE REPLACEMENT
A. Turn the unit upside down.
B. Insert a screwdriver between foot and shoe on one of the pods.
C. Using a lifting motion, remove the shoe from the foot.
D. Dip a new shoe in water and attach the shoe to the foot, making sure to put the small post into the small hole and the large post into the large hole. These posts and holes are different sizes to prevent the shoes from being improperly installed.
E. Repeat steps b, c and d for each shoe.
POD SHOES REPLACEMENT PART NUMBERS
HWN114 – Pod Shoes: Vinyl and Fiberglass (4 Pack)
HWN115 – Pod Shoes: Concrete (4 Pack)
Cause #3 – Worn Pods
POD REPLACEMENT PART NUMBERS
HWN11601 – White Pod Kit: Left and Right Pods, Plugs, Screws, Washers
HWN11603 – Light Gray Pod Kit: Left and Right Pods, Plugs, Screws, Washers
POD REPLACEMENT
A. Using a screwdriver, remove the plugs from the pod (see Fig. 14).
B. Unscrew and remove the hex bolt that was covered by the plug.
C. Remove pod by placing equal pressure on both ends of the pod until it releases from the cleaner body.
D. Install new pod and replace and tighten hex bolt. Ensure that the pod moves smoothly and freely.
POD REPLACEMENT PART NUMBERS
HWN11601 – White Pod Kit: Left and Right Pods, Plugs, Screws, Washers
HWN11603 – Light Gray Pod Kit: Left and Right Pods, Plugs, Screws, Washers
Cause #4 – Steering Failure
Though it is rare, this issue could be cause by a steering failure.
1. Check and clean rear screen
2. Check to see that cone gear is free and rotates smoothly in both directions
3. Check medium turbine and spindle gear assemblies for malfunction. This will require the unit be disassembled, if you are not comfortable with the cleaner’s assembly please seek professional help.
Troubleshoot - Cleaner sticks at steps, corners, etc.
Below are the five common reasons why your cleaner is experiencing these problems and their solutions. Please troubleshoot in the order they are listed:
Cause #1 - Too much/improper water flow through cleaner
Start by checking the suction.
Ensure that the hose is full of water and that your pump is running. Remove the StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner from the hose, then insert the flow gauge into the leader hose. Make sure the flow gauge is underwater and with the opposite end of the hose attached to a dedicated suction or skimmer port observe the flow gauge. The optimal level is between the MAX and MIN lines of the flow gauge. If the setting is higher than the MAX marking, it will be necessary to reduce the flow using the Regulator Valve.
Adjust water flow by attaching your Regulator Valve (HWN161) before connecting the first hose, this would be a dedicated Vacuum Lock Wall Fitting or directly into your Skimmer Cone (HWN152).
Cause #2 – Worn Shoes
The pod shoes have wear indicators on their sides and should occasionally be checked to determine if replacement is needed. The shoe wear indicator is a line on the side of the pod shoe that appears as a difference in texture. When this texture difference is no longer visible at the bottom of the shoe when viewed from either side, the shoes must be changed.
POD SHOES REPLACEMENT PART NUMBERS
HWN114 – Pod Shoes: Vinyl and Fiberglass (4 Pack)
HWN115 – Pod Shoes: Concrete (4 Pack)
POD SHOE REPLACEMENT
A. Turn the unit upside down.
B. Insert a screwdriver between foot and shoe on one of the pods.
C. Using a lifting motion, remove the shoe from the foot.
D. Dip a new shoe in water and attach the shoe to the foot, making sure to put the small post into the small hole and the large post into the large hole. These posts and holes are different sizes to prevent the shoes from being improperly installed.
E. Repeat steps b, c and d for each shoe.
POD SHOES REPLACEMENT PART NUMBERS
HWN114 – Pod Shoes: Vinyl and Fiberglass (4 Pack)
HWN115 – Pod Shoes: Concrete (4 Pack)
Cause #3 – Worn Wings
The pod shoes and wings have wear indicators on their sides and should occasionally be checked to determine if replacement is needed. The wing wear indicator is located on the side and is a horizontal line which has three vertical lines above it. When you can no longer see the horizontal line, the wings must be replaced.
WINGS REPLACEMENT PART NUMBERS:
HWN11701 – White Wing Kit: Left and Right Wings
HWN11703 – Light Gray Wing Kit: Left and Right Wings
WING REPLACEMENT
A. Using a screwdriver, remove the plugs from both pods.
B. Remove the old wings by bending the wings up toward the sides of the cleaner, and lift them off their hooks. If any of the wing hooks are broken, take the StarzTruck automatic pool cleaner to your dealer for pod replacement as the cleaner will not function properly if the wings are not properly attached.
C. Attach new wings, making sure that you match the “L” (left) and “R” (right) wings to the corresponding pods.
D. Replace the pod plugs and tap them into place
WINGS REPLACEMENT PART NUMBERS:
HWN11701 – White Wing Kit: Left and Right Wings
HWN11703 – Light Gray Wing Kit: Left and Right Wings
Cause #4 – Hose is too short
Install additional hose
TUBING REPLACEMENT PART NUMBERS
SZTH01 – 4 Foot Regular Hose
SZTHL01 – 4 Foot Regular Hose
Cause #5 – Steering Failure
Though it is rare, this issue could be cause by a steering failure.
1. Check and clean rear screen
2. Check to see that cone gear is free and rotates smoothly in both directions
3. Check medium turbine and spindle gear assemblies for malfunction. This will require the unit be disassembled, if you are not comfortable with the cleaner’s assembly please seek professional help.