New variable speed pump loosing prime at low speed

[lucas2]

I messed with the valve last night after work. It is an Ortega. I think I can hear air being sucked in around the shaft when I move it while pump is in high speed. I am going to try to get some o rings today. The valve is 30 yrs old and has been under extra suction due to the addition of a pool cleaner.

[PoolDoc]

good luck!

[lucas2]

Replaced the o ring in valve today. Seems better, but pump is still loosing prime. What should I check next? Is there some other reason this could be happening?

[PoolDoc]

Suction leaks are hard to find, but I don't know of any other option for you. I always caution customers that, when I find *a* leak, that there's no guarantee that it was *the* leak.

Air in the pump basket (on high) and air in the filter (released with the release port, if you have one) will betray the presence of a continuing suction leak.

[lucas2]

OK, the problem I am having now, is that I cannot get the vaccum pool cleaner to work. I have been messing with it for 2 days and it is almost like there is a partial restriction in the suction line, and the vaccum puts it over the edge with the extra friction. Is this possible? I am thinking of back flushing it today with a hose and seeing what happens. Wondering if the suction leak was helping pump before?

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Also, I have replaced all above ground piping, super sealed all joints, removed unions, brand new pump, new o ring in 3 way valve. There is nothing left to check except underground pipes. How do I go about this, and what should I be looking for?

[PoolDoc]

You won't enjoy *this* answer:

I've never been good at finding underground suction leaks, myself. If you do find a good solution, before you describe it here, consider whether it's patentable or marketable. If it is, and works well, you may not want to share.

Sorry.

[lucas2]

so I dug everything I could up today to see how it works. Found that jacuzzi air pump pipes into suction line. cut and capped it to rule it out. Running now. Will post results.