The plan was to cut the return line (number 1) to match the height of the 3 suction lines (2 skimmers, and bottom) and tie in right in front of the pump (number 2) and put a valve in between to be able to adjust suction or turn off. My pump motor is 1 HP. I'll probably put a T fitting on (number 1) so I can have the option to convert back and forth.

And yes I surely plan to use the safety cover on the connection!

Side note: This pool was already here when we bought the house... I've been wanting to replace those cheap return valves with jandy valves. Maybe this is a good time to do that. Although upgrading all of those will cost almost as much as the Aquanaut!