I'm new here...sorry it's a bit long winded. I did try and search, but my search skills are terrible.

Just got a Intex 18'x4' metal frame (about 6500 gallons.) We spent the extra cash for the saltwater set up (wife want's to go green!) I filled the pool with well water and put the salt in yesterday. I've been running the pump for about 24 hours now and will start the SWG when I get home. I took a sample to local pool supply place. Aparently my TA is 280. The guy said he couldn't recomend muriatic acid for a vinyl pool (not sure why?) Anyway, I've been reading alot of different things about bringing down the TA and I've been getting just as many suggestions, so I wanted to see what's up? I guess my question is: Will it be OK to use the muriatic acid...and should I leave the pump running when I add it, or turn the pump off for a few hours (I think they were calling that the slug method?)

I saw the method that uses areation (sounds good and makes sense) but I wasn't sure how much acid to add? If I put 1/2 a gallon of acid in while the pump is running and check it again tomorrow would that be the best thing?

The guy at the pool place also said I need to put in 1lbs of shock and 3lbs of conditioner. Does this sound right?

I'm a little confused about why I'm putting in a bunch of chemicals when I'm trying to go to a less chemical set up? Any advise or help would be great.