Yes, I am pretty sure the pressure gauge is reading right. It usually stays on about 14psi.. now about 10psi. I can turn the pool cleaner on (pressure side cleaner) and flow is down to nothing out of the returns... usually not the case.
I will get the horsepower of the pump but I'm thinking 1hp Pentair Whisperflow. You were right, sand filter.
I am still leaning toward something in the suction side pipe. I did have the skimmer basket off while dumping out some oak tree worms so it was off for about 25 seconds, but there was really nothing in the pool I can think of that would have fit down the pipe... other than the thermometer.(That's why I was leaning that way but did find it in the deep end).
I did try a snake (later read it was a bad idea) from the skimmer toward the pump for about 30 feet with no results. I thought about trying the skimmer/drain valve apart again and maybe running a snake from that end down the skimmer line and see. I had just read there's a possibility of getting it stuck. I did read about the Drain King at Home Depot that blasts.. might try that as well.
I just don't understand why if it's a skimmer line blockage, why can't I get good pressure from the main drain line (switching off the skimmer line) since they are two separate lines, correct ??
I really appreciate you helping me out Poconos. Your name has been popular for years on the forum.... you do good work !! Thanks again !!