Pentair 1 HP pump won't start usually

[jeffreywilens]

I have a 1HP Pentair pump that is only used to throw water down a water slide. It has been working fine for 8 years. Suddenly, it won't start cleanly. When activated there is clicking and buzzing noise like it is starting but no water flows. After 30 seconds or so it shuts off.

Then another minute or so later, it goes through this cycle again.

I assumed the pump is not primed right but there is water in the little basket and everything seems to be okay.

After going through this cycle 5-6 times, suddenly it comes to life on the next attempt and runs just fine.

But the next week or whenever it is used again, the same problem returns.

Any ideas?