OK, so a quick update. After almost a week, I'm still getting air in the system.
I tried the water hose test in the video, and couldn't locate a leak.
Things I've done to troubleshoot are as follows?
1) Silicone Lubed brand new basket lid heavily.
2) Replaced O Ring in diverter valve on suction side (allows me to choose more suction at one skimmer than the other)
3) replaced and siliconed O Ring of Union on suction side.
4) Physically taped off every one of the joints on the suction side
Days of efforts, to no avail.
At higher RPM, the pump's running fine but a consistent bubble tornado about the size of a nickel. At lower speeds, though cavitation is a real issue and the air takes over. I'm afraid to let it run a program unless I'm at home. I'm afraid it'll lose prime and burn up a brand new VSP.
So, is it time to start cutting pipes? Again, thank you in advance!