Hey Todd,
What you are looking for is a 'Skimmer Float Check Valve' I just drained and patched my pool and cleaned the entire system with an air compressor, water hose and a leaf blower. It was surprising what came out of the pool. I found a link that you should check out that relates to your problem and has a picture diagram that shows exactly how your pool is set up and why your not getting suction like my pool hince the forum I found and now replying to you at.
http://www.pentairpool.com/pdfs/U-3SkimmerIG.pdf
Go to page 2 of 4 and BAM!!! right there.
Hope this helps.
Im from Dallas as well living in Rowlett now, after 5 years active duty Marine Corps and Doing Home Improvment/Landscaping.
Lavishlandscapes1@gmail.com (found on Facebook)
If you need any advice as Im sure I have gone through the same delima.
Nathan