well, changed it out with the pressure fittings. plus got clear primer. duh! sure enough took 10 minutes, let it set for an hour, and she is cranking away. pressure in the 50 psi max cartridge filter is 33psi. looks like stronger circulation at the pool so hope the powered cleaner works better. plus the pump runs much cooler to the touch than the super pump.
well thanks for the help. not too often this "ol dog" learns new tricks!