If venturi is clean and re-installed properly, ( chk to make sure round gasket is not in upside down, holes should line up) then you probably should install a seal kit. Look at your parts breakdown and you will see the rotary disc and seal... in the parts list you will find a non illustrated part called a seal kit... this is assuming the motor and timer are okay....
I wouldnt worry about the salt unless it has set up hard... you should be using pellet salt in a sears unit, let the salt get near the bottom from time to time and see if it can be stirred with a broom handle.. never fill the brine tank above half full as this will encourage the salt to mush and set up like a brick. I have had some that I had to use a hammer and chisel to break up...