thebumble (they bounce, don't they? )

I don't 'play' with the Intex pools (only because we don't sell them and I've never been called to go service one). It sounds like you have a suction side air leak, I believe these pumps/ filters are connected to the pool with corrugated hoses, secured by clamps - like most AG pools, but don't know if the filter is part of the pump or separate. Make sure that the suction line isn't drawing air, if it is - fix the leak. For most filters, if the pump draws air, it will collect in the filter which reduces the filtering ability and makes bubbles come out of the return jet.

The real reason I'm replying is that you should NEVER!!!! use a petrolium product on the gaskets or O-rings!!! Petrolium lube will make the gasket material swell up and wrinkle (like your toes or finger prints when you've been in the pool or bath too long), so it no longer keeps a good seal. You can use K-Y to lube them, but it's water based and will 'wash away' - what you want to lube the pool gaskets with is a silicon or teflon based lube!

I'd imagine that others will 'chime in' with more advice on the air problem, but I really wanted to let you know not to use Vasoline on the gaskets - Waste