Final outcome----
Could not determine the source of air leaking so I decided to jam my 6'2" frame between the toilet and the cabinet above (about 12" clearance ) and take the pump apart --
well got to the second inners and decided it's time to put it back together. Woalah!!!!! it worked!!!
Have no idea what I did to make it work?
In taking the pump apart I had to remove the bypass line and the water in and water out connections. I think the toilet is permanently pressed into my chest.
thanks for all who gave advice to the solution