I didnt read through all of that, but i didnt see this option as I glanced at it..
We have an 8 inch automatic siphon. When we need to prime it, we use a shop vac. We just hook up a generator and plug in the shop vac, then tape it with duct tape to the Tee. This will get it going in no time. Available electricity is the key requirement here. A very simple solution though.

I have also taken an 8' length of pipe and slid it into the 90 where the water comes out. When the water starts filling the pipe, it travels up the 90 into this length, fills it up a bit - then POOF it will shoot out and the water will come pouring out. I dont know that you need this, but its worked for us.

Last edited by Hautlynk; 12/10/12 03:33 PM.
17 ac. in East Texas. 1800 acre floodplain, Built in the drought of 2011. 17k CNBG 2012, 200 LMB 2013, 100BCP/WCP 2013, 50 CC 2013, 50 GC 2019, lots of FHM in '12, gar, grinnel and mudcats were included:)