Erik MPS

15 years is VERY VERY good, at least compared to the pumps that are exposed to the outdoors up here. I don't think you could go wrong with the 2 Speed Hayward Superpump. That and the Pentair Whisperflo are the only two I would install new.

+1 to the springs, not the straps. I've seen the straps fail at the deck anchor holes. I'll also vouch for the Little Giant pump. Lately we've been using this pump with great success. The only benefit to the first pump is you can bypass the float switch if necessary/desired. -Erik

Most of the solid covers are pretty heavy and do not fold up in boxes well. In fact, they barely roll up well. I don't know if 200 lbs is the answer, but it'll be heavy. Does your friend FOR SURE have a solid loop-loc, or is a smart mesh/safety cover? Merlin makes a smart mesh cover that is similar to a net with a weave so tight it acts like a solid cover.