What ingredient is in the quick shock?

Wait and see what your pH and alk are before adding the pH rise or pH minus. Post your numbers here and we'll advise you if using those two are needed and or ok to use.

Yes, stabilizer is cya. Read the label for how much to add based on your volume, and then add only half that much. Also, sometimes those labels tell you to broadcast it into the pool but don't do that. It dissolves slowly and you don't want acid granules just sitting there on your new liner! Either pour it slowly into the skimmer and let it dissolve in the filter (keep pump running and don't backwash for about a week or you'll throw it right out, though.) Or, you can fill a stocking or old sock with it and hang it in front of a return jet. Regardless of how you decide to add it, wait a week and then test for it before deciding if you need to add more. Better to gradually get to your target than overshoot because the only way to correct high cya level is to do a partial drain.

You are correct about the calcium hardness -- don't need that stuff in a vinyl pool.

Glad we were able to save you some money by directing you to a good price for the kit!