Fixing a Reversed Pump Delay on a Toro ECXTRA Timer

I recently installed a three-zone sprinkler system using city water, a 1 HP Flotec pump (wired for 110V), a pump relay (also 110V), and a Toro ECXTRA timer. The pump delay feature on the timer seems to be working backwards: when a station activates, the pump starts immediately, then the valves open after the delay period (set to 2 seconds). Is this a wiring error?

Diagnosing the Wiring

First, disconnect the wire from the pump start/master valve terminal at the controller. Then manually activate each station one at a time from the timer. If the pump kicks on when you activate station #1, the pump start relay wire is likely connected to station #1 instead of the dedicated pump start/master valve terminal. Repeat this test for stations #2 and #3. If the pump never starts with the relay wire disconnected, your wiring is probably correct.

Next Steps

If the problem persists after verifying the wiring, take the timer to an irrigation supply store. Most will test it for free to rule out a defective controller. This simple check can save hours of troubleshooting.