sfoanna,
Don't give up! It will be all worth it in the end. We have a Hot Springs Prodigy hot tub, and we just can't say enough good things about it. You have a good tub, work with it, and you will be soaking before you know it.
Perhaps you can call a Hot Springs dealer near you and ask for advice, I'm sure they will be glad to help a prospective customer.
BARRYRAY gave you some good pointers.