1. Cartridge filters can plug VERY quickly, when you are vacuuming live sludge -- I wouldn't do that!
2. Air can get in many ways, and it can be hard to find where. Check your vac hose for damage, but otherwise, let's leave that for later.
3. We can probably help with the valves . . . IF you send GOOD pictures to poolforum@gmail.com. I'll post them, and let folks go from there.
4. Meanwhile, use the leaf rake and keep the chlorine HIGH.