What make/model of pump? Should not be any need to lube every time the lid is taken off, just make sure the sealing surfaces are clean. In 9 seasons I've never replaced the gasket in mine and lube it usually at beginning of season...sometimes. As I said it only takes a tiny leak when the basket is not loaded with water for it to fail to prime, especially on low speed. Does the water drain out when the pump is off? If so you may have a leak somewhere else in the system that lets water drain back through the skimmer. In any case, glad it's working again.
Al