Pentair / Sta-Rite 24901-0003 Lateral Assembly for System:3 Sand Filter (S8S70)
The Pentair / Sta-Rite 24901-0003 is an OEM replacement lateral assembly used inside the
Sta-Rite System:3 SS-Series sand filter model S8S70. Laterals distribute water evenly through the sand bed during
filtration and collect water during backwash. Replacing cracked or broken laterals helps restore proper flow and prevents sand from
returning to the pool.
Compatibility
- Fits: Sta-Rite System:3 SS-Series sand filter S8S70
- Typical quantity used: 16 laterals per filter (verify on your parts diagram)
Key Details
- Part number: 24901-0003
- Type: Sand filter lateral
- Approx. size: 6-1/4″ long x 1-1/4″ high x 1-1/4″ wide
What This Part Does
- Supports even water distribution through the sand bed for consistent filtration
- Helps prevent channeling in the sand and improves overall filter performance
- Reduces the chance of sand blowing back to the pool when laterals are intact and properly seated
Common Signs You Need New Laterals
- Sand returning to the pool through the return jets
- Cracked, split, or missing lateral fingers found during service
- Uneven filtration performance or abnormal pressure/flow after ruling out pump and plumbing issues
Installation Notes
- Shut off the pump and relieve all pressure before opening the filter.
- Lower the water level in the tank and remove sand as needed to access the lateral hub/manifold.
- Replace any damaged laterals and inspect the hub/manifold for cracks or worn threads.
- Hand-tighten laterals snuglyavoid over-tightening plastic threads.
- When refilling, add water first before adding sand to help cushion laterals and reduce breakage risk.
- After reassembly, rinse/backwash per your normal start-up procedure and confirm no sand returns to the pool.
Related Products (Aqua Pool Supply)
- Pentair / Sta-Rite 24901-0003 Lateral (Search)
- System:3 S8S70 Filter Parts (Search)
- Pool Filter Sand (Search)
- Sand Filter Multiport Valve Gaskets (Search)
- Pool-Safe Silicone O-Ring Lubricant (Search)
Maintenance Tips
- Never change multiport valve positions with the pump runningthis helps protect laterals and internal valve seals.
- Backwash when filter pressure rises about 810 PSI over your clean starting pressure.
- If sand returns after a proper backwash/rinse, inspect laterals and the standpipe/hub for damage.
- Keep water chemistry balancedextreme pH and high calcium can shorten the life of plastic internals over time.








