Need to replace the seal in the pump... could this be causing low vacuum suction? (With picture)

[summertimesadness]

I noticed even though I turn off a skimmer when I hook up the vacuum, I'm not getting appropriate amount of suction to clean up the bottom of the pool.

I noticed there was water coming out of the side of the pump at times, a friend said its due to a worn out seal inside the pump. He's gonna replace it in the next day or so, but I am a bit concerned still on the vacuum end.

Thoughts?

 

[Texas Splash]

I don't think the lack of vacuum suction is from a tiny leak in that seal plate gasket area. Does the pump remain full of water at all times? Have you noticed any changes with the filter pressure gauge, either very high or the needle stuck and never moving? Since you probably recently opened, any chance you might have a partial suction line blockage from the skimmer to the pump? Have you tried pushing water backwards from the pump to the skimmer with a garden hose to see? Finally, have you balanced your water properly since opening and performed an Overnight Chlorine Loss Test to ensure there is no algae (visible or transparent) present in the water?