I am curious about the principle of self-priming pumps. From what I can find they can't actually "prime" a pump for start-up but rather keep it primed in the event air gets into the line. Is this true or is it possible to get a self-priming pump that will prime a pump for start-up so that a second priming pump for manual pump isn't required?

Is this true or is it possible to get a self-priming pump that will prime a pump for start-up so that a second priming pump for manual pump isn't required?  

Yes they are readily available in many styles.  What are you trying to pump and what is the suction lift required.  Positive displacement pump will create a vacuum lift however; ensure that the pump you select is suited for the dry running that takes place during the vacuum lift.  Some turbine pumps are also suitable for suction lifts.  

Gear pumps used to be the standard for lifting fuel from below grade tanks.  These self priming pumps have all but disappeared from the automotive filling stations, but are still used for fuel oil burners on boiler for homes and industry.  Now submersibles are common-place at the filling stations.  

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