Cant find suction side leak, basket wont prime

[Rob73]

Hi, guys.

I have a 20 year old pacfab challenger filter pump and a separate pump for my infloor system.

The past few weeks, noticed dirt wasn't cleaning off pool floor very well. Water in strainer basket was slowly getting lower. Removed housing to check impeller, everything looked ok.

Since then, can't get the basket to prime. I replaced drain plug gasket, o ring on pump lid, put shaving cream all over unions and basket looking for air leak. No luck.

6 months ago, pump housing sprung a leak, so replaced. Am thinking maybe a small leak in strainer basket, so waiting for new one to arrive to install, but I'm not convinced that's the issue.

Any other tips to try? TIA

 

[Texas Splash]

When you replaced the O-rings, I'm assuming you coated them with pool silicone correct? Regardless, I would start at the top (above ground) and eliminate each area systematically. Don't forget 3-way valves if you have them. Maybe post a pic of your equipment pad and update your signature so we can see everything you have to work with.

Suction Side Air Leaks

If you see air bubbles coming out of the return lines in your pool, you likely have a leak. Some signs that a suction side plumbing leak has occurred include: Read more

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[Rob73]

Thanks for the reply. Yes, I did. However, pulled the trigger and have the repair guy coming on Wednesday. Will update then. Thanks!