Intex swimming pools are outdoor, above-ground swimming pools that are stretched over a steel frame and powder coated to resist rust and other forms of environmental decay. A major feature of these pools is that they don't require any tools to assemble as long as you use the Intex pins to put the pool together. However, there are alternatives out there that can be used as replacements, though you need to be sure that the alternative is suitable for your purpose.
Intex Pins
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Intex brand pins are plastic pins that are pushed through the frame to hold it in place. These pins are made of a flexible but strong plastic, and they slide right into place, the ends snapping out to hold the frame of the pool in shape. There aren't any tools required because these pins can just be pushed in by hand when it comes time to assemble the pool.
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Alternative Plastic Pins
Intex isn't the only manufacturer of plastic pins on the market. However it is important that the pins you use, if they aren't Intex pins, are the same size and that they will hold the same load as an Intex pin would. If not it can lead to problems with your pool assembly, as a single connection that isn't holding up properly can lead to a leak, if not an outright breach in your pool.
Metal Fasteners
The plastic pins can also be replaced by metal pins or bolts. If you have a metal pin or a metal bolt and nut that will occupy the same space and take the same burden as the Intex pin would have, then you have a viable replacement piece. It's also a good idea to use aluminum or stainless steel to ensure that the bolt doesn't rust over time.
Replacement Part Dangers
It's always a good idea to use an Intex pin whenever you are constructing an Intex pool. The system was specifically designed for the use of the Intex pins, and while other parts will function, they are not the parts that the system was intended for. This can lead to complications such as tearing the pool, buckling under the load and violating any sort of warranty because you used the wrong parts.