Okay I feel like a total moron asking this but...

[Poconos]

Before you do the desparate route and start chucking stuff in the pool I'd try diluting the sample with distilled and then testing if you suspect way high TA. You can also try testing well or tap water as a sanity check. My wells and stream always show a low (<50 ppm) level of TA. If you dilute with distilled water 1:1 then double the reading. 2:1 triple etc. You can also bring a sample to a pool store and let them test it. Just don't buy any chemicals.
Al

[scootchu]

Thanks for that tip. I will try that when I get home from work today and prove myself sane... I hope.

[scootchu]

Well I tested the tap water and got much the same results as the pool water so I got a new kit and tested the TA I had 170ppm and a pH of 7.6. I have added 4.5 cups of muriatic acid and now I am down to 160ppm TA and 7.2 pH.I have the fountain on and the slide water is also on. Everything is clear and clean so I am in the ballpark. Water temp is cold at 75, but considering the 56 degree well water that was used I can't complain.