Finally got this all installed, and its working beautifully. That cartridge filter did the trick on the algae cleanup. I plumbed it all in with PVC and left it running overnight on HI and the next morning ( with a few bottles of chlorine ) the pool was clear again, vacuumed today and the filter didn't allow an ounce back in and its fully clean. I'm hoping tomorrow I can switch it to LOW where it will stay and we can finally enjoy the pool!

Thanks for the tips, I also ordered a second filter so I can alternate cleaning them. I'm curious if when I shut the pump off and close the valve between the pump and the filter if when I open the air release the water should flow out of the filter through the jet into the pool? I did position the filter such that the casing seperation point is about 12" above the water level in hopes this would be the case and it would mean I lose no water really during filter changes.