Marineland canister filter

[weagle117]

I bought a Marineland H.O.T. filter and am having an awful time getting it to work. It took me hours the 1st time but it did finally work. I stopped it to clean &..... big mistake. It pumps all the water out but doesn't pull any in so after a few seconds it just starts sputtering. Has anyone had any trouble with this type canister pump? I have followed the directions, watched the video on UTube, & called Marineland. They told me to get aquarium silicone lubricant. I tried but that didn't even work. It seems to leak around the bottom lip of the plastic top but I can't really tell because it says to fill it to the very top to cover the inside part so I've been filling it until it overflows a little to make sure it's full. I don't really expect an answer to my problem... would just like to know if anyone else has had this trouble.