Air Leak in Ball Valves

[woodchip]

I have 3 ball valves that are in the three inlet lines to my pump, when I move them I hear a varying air leaking sound. I am thinking that they are leaking air. Can these be taken apart and repaired, do I need to maintain them in any way? Could this be what is causing massive air coming out through my returns? I am also having alot of trouble sealing my pump strainer lid. I bought a new gasket and have tried putting some sealant around the edges to stop the leak. Is there anything else you can recommend for this problem.
Thanks

 

[X-PertPool]

check the front fitting on the motor, sometimes they loosen up from dry running the pump. As for ball valve maintenance to be sure why not just replace them entirely?