Rocky's 5A In Ground Pool Solar Reel - Up to 24 Feet Wide

Rocky's Reel is the 4th different reel that I have had over the past 25 yrs. This is the only reel that actually works as advertised. The pole does not bend when the cover is rolled up and the mechanism allows easy 1 person operation for both taking off and putting back on. The reel stays in place and the cover rolls off very easily and we didn't even add the recommended concrete bolts yet. There are a couple of things to note about this cover reel: First, it is more work to build this reel than other reels. There are a lot of parts and a lot of screws to put in, however, the construction is really solid and it is made to last a very long time. Second, the height of the reel when the cover is fully rolled up is just a couple of inches too high to fit under the diving board. Since we are older and do not use the board, it is not a problem, however, if you have a board, pay attention to the overall height of the rolled cover. The straps that come with this reel are not the typical nylon material and they are really tough and according to other reviews, will last 10 years. I believe it after installing these on the cover. Overall, this is an outstanding reel making the use of our solar cover very easy. No more struggling to get the cover on or off.

The reel is very solid and works great. However, the straps that come with this are terrible. We have an irregular shaped pool, so there was only enough material for 5 straps. Also, I mounted them to the tube as directed and two of them have already pulled off the reel.

Lets say I wish I spent the money on this first instead of the $200 on different one that advertised for a 24" pool. Multiple comments have the assembly as a CON and being "tricky". Personally, I thought this reel was easy to assemble. Read the instructions, watch the VIDEO, and get the required tools together. If you have a question, call their 1800 number to get directly connected to someone. So far I am very impressed and hope to not have to by a 3rd reel!

Better be sure this is the roller you want. Return shipping would have exceeded $350 so we're keeping it despite having chosen to go with a more narrow cover for our irregularly shaped pool.

We looked at a lot of reels before purchasing. This was the sturdiest we could find. It is metal with a metal handle. We know the wear and tear it will take so plastic pieces won’t do. We are pleased with the design and size. It does take a little bit to put together, but comes with instructions with pictures!

Great quality. Doesn’t sag. Much thicker metal than my previous roller.

Makes it easy to put cover on and off. Grommets break during storms unless you wind it back 1 or 2 cranks. Can be uncovered with 1 person but 2 people can do it better. Product very well made.

I used it for a 20 by 40 16 mil solar blanket. Works great as expected. It holds the cover easily. I recommend it for that cover size. It’s not hard to put together, but does take some time.