Reliable navigation is what allows a suction-side pool cleaner to cover the entire pool instead of repeating the same path. The Zodiac MX8 / MX6 Direction Control Device V2 – Side A (R0524700) is a genuine OEM replacement part designed to restore balanced steering and proper directional changes in Zodiac MX8 and MX6 pool cleaners.

Inside these cleaners, directional control is achieved hydraulically rather than electronically. The direction control devices regulate internal water flow, forcing the cleaner to periodically change direction and avoid pattern locking. When the system is working correctly, the cleaner navigates the pool floor and walls efficiently, reaching areas that would otherwise be missed.

As the direction control device wears, these controlled changes begin to fail. The cleaner may continue running but will often move in straight lines, repeat tight loops, or neglect sections of the pool entirely. Replacing the worn component with the Zodiac R0524700 Direction Control Device V2 – Side A restores the internal steering function and helps return full, even pool coverage.

Why Direction Control Is Essential for Coverage

Suction-side cleaners like the MX8 and MX6 rely entirely on hydraulic logic for navigation. Without effective direction control, even strong suction cannot compensate for poor movement patterns.

A failing direction control device can result in incomplete cleaning cycles, excessive hose wear, and wasted run time. Many pool owners initially suspect hose length, suction levels, or track wear, when the true cause is internal steering degradation.

Proper direction control allows the cleaner to change direction predictably, break repetitive paths, and reach walls, corners, and transitions more consistently.

Designed Specifically for Zodiac MX8 and MX6 Cleaners

The R0524700 Direction Control Device V2 – Side A is manufactured to exact Zodiac specifications and is intended for a specific position inside the cleaner body. The Side A designation is critical, as this component must be installed in the correct orientation to function properly within the steering system.

Installing the wrong side or mixing components can result in unbalanced movement or continued navigation issues. Using the correct OEM replacement ensures proper internal flow regulation and reliable directional changes.

This part is compatible with Zodiac MX8 and MX6 suction-side pool cleaners.

V2 Design for Improved Durability

The V2 version reflects design updates made by Zodiac to address wear patterns observed in earlier generations. These improvements help the device maintain consistent steering behavior over longer service intervals, especially in pools with extended run times or heavy debris loads.

By upgrading to the V2 component, cleaner performance and longevity are improved when installed as part of routine maintenance or repair.

Common Signs the Side A Direction Control Device Needs Replacement

Directional wear often develops gradually, making it difficult to identify until coverage problems become obvious. The cleaner may still move and climb but fails to clean evenly.

Common indicators include repetitive travel paths, failure to change direction, or areas of the pool consistently left untouched despite adequate suction. If hoses are correctly sized and suction levels are normal, the direction control device is often the source of the issue.

Replacing the Side A device frequently results in immediate improvement in navigation.

OEM Zodiac Construction for Reliable Steering

The Zodiac R0524700 is built from pool-grade, chemical-resistant materials designed to withstand constant water flow, pressure changes, and debris exposure. OEM construction ensures internal channels maintain proper geometry, which is essential for consistent hydraulic steering.

For pool service professionals, genuine Zodiac direction control devices reduce callbacks and ensure predictable results after installation.

Ideal for Repairs and Preventive Maintenance

The Direction Control Device V2 – Side A is commonly replaced during:

• Coverage and navigation troubleshooting

• Cleaner rebuilds or mid-life servicing

• Preventive maintenance on older MX8 or MX6 units

• Repeated straight-line or looping movement issues

Replacing worn steering components restores performance without replacing the entire cleaner.

Installation Overview

Installation requires opening the cleaner body with the system turned off. The existing direction control device is removed and replaced with the R0524700 Side A component in the correct internal position.

Care should be taken to confirm proper seating and orientation before reassembly. Once installed, the cleaner should demonstrate improved directional changes and more balanced pool coverage during operation.

Professional installation is recommended for those unfamiliar with suction-side cleaner internals.

Why Proper Direction Control Matters

• Restores balanced pool coverage

• Prevents repetitive cleaning paths

• Improves overall cleaning efficiency

• Reduces hose and component wear

• Extends the usable life of the cleaner

Directional control is a functional necessity, not an optional feature.

Product Specifications

Buy with Confidence from Benchmark Pool Supply

When you purchase the Zodiac MX8 / MX6 Direction Control Device V2 – Side A (R0524700) from Benchmark Pool Supply, you’re buying from a real pool supply company that understands suction-side cleaner hydraulics—not just part numbers.

We stock genuine Zodiac replacement parts trusted by pool service professionals. If you need help confirming compatibility or diagnosing cleaner movement issues, our experienced team is here to help.