I don't have any words of wisdom for you. Just want you to know how badly I feel that you guys are having such a hard time getting this pool up. You will eventually get it. Just keep thinking about the enjoyment you will have when it is finally fixed, filled and you are floating around in it soaking up the sun. Keep your chin up! We are all rooting for you! And, hopefully somebody here can offer you some advise to help remedy the situation.