Apologize in advance for long thread. I was having issues getting my pump to prime when opening this year. Then I replaced all gaskets except those in the pump, replaced above ground PVC due to age and a few leaks on return side, and replaced multiport valve internal spring and stem gasket due to leak at valve handle. After this the system seemed to operate fine. A few days later I am having trouble getting my pump to prime again after a heavy vacuuming session to clean up dirt, leaves, and DE from my pool (see video) I hooked the vacuum line directly to bottom of skimmer (now I know better). I don’t feel anything on the impeller but will pull the pump off for a detailed visual inspection. I was thinking that the underground suction line may be partially clogged. However the water flow seems fine from what I can tell (see video). What are your thoughts on water flow? Would a worn diffuser gasket cause this priming issue? During troubleshooting I’ve lubricated and replaced the union gaskets, the pump lid gasket, the multiport internals, removed and reinstalled two drain plugs with Teflon tape and fixed the return side leaks. I tried best I could to test for suction air leaks with incense smoke and water with no luck finding anything. I also have the multiport set to recirculate just to eliminate the filter. Not sure where to go next. Do you think I should look at pump impeller and seals and then if that doesn’t solve the issue assume it is a suction line partial clog? I also noticed a water leak in the threaded PVC on the pump return side but I don’t think that would cause priming issues would it? I can also see air bubbles coming out of the pool return jet. I only have one skimmer and one return so I can’t isolate the plumbing. Thanks! Link to video SF
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