Hi all, new here and to the spa world.

Obviously I love hot tubs (who wouldn't) and I have a chance to purchase a used hot tub that needs a little work.

It is a 4-year old Sonoma Spa Model: Symphony 910

The good: It is a beatifull hot tub, acomodates 5 people, with 45 jets, 2x Aqua-Flo Dual 4.8 HP 2-speed pumps, Balboa digital controls and Ozonator. Also has a nice cover in good condition. Overall in good condition.

The bad: There are at least 2 leaks. Current owner bought the house last summer and although he drained it completely for the winter, he did not read the manual and a little water was left in the system. This is Chicagoland and obviously damage ensued. There is one manifold that is leaking badly and I think a second one has a little leak too. Also, it is obvious that either a side-top jet is leaking or a pipe going alongside the top is leaking. Also, one flange leading to the Spa pack is leaking a little.

Now, reading through all the posts here the last 3 days, I am fairly sure I can tackle all the plumping issues one way or another. I am handy and know a few things around plumbing.

The one thing that puzzles me is that most of the electrical equipment is located on the side, outside the shell! Obviously there is a cover around it. But is that standard practice?

Now, I have that person down to $500. He does not have time to fix this (does not seem like the handyman type at all), does not want to spend the money and would rather clear the area, break down the cracking old cement patio and put in a big deck.

Is this a good price and do you think this is worth the time and effort? The insulation around the tub is dense foam that can be taken apart with a strong hand which helps. The frame is in very good condition although I would redo the side panels with carsiding for the looks.

By the way, a friend suggested that if I was to put the tub on it's side it would be easier to work on the plumbing. I think it is the stupidest idea I have ever heard, what do you think?

The biggest problem about all this is that the tub apparently weighs 800 pounds!! without the frame, so about 1000 lbs total! How on earth do you move a beast like that? I will also post in the forum about moving but does anybody have any ideas?

If I was to rent a low-rise trailer/truck with ramps and a commercial pallet mover or similar, is it possible to use that to pick up the tub (empty obviously) or will it hurt the shell?

Thank for all the help, info and insight.

Andrew

Hi, I`m new here too.. live in Mchenry, Illinois. I picked up a Heldor Hot tub the other day... for 100 bucks, seats 5 and looks like its in great shape. Me and a buddy moved it, geshh my back is still killing me. when and if you move it... get 4 guys, your back will thank you. i had mine on the side, upsiade down and every witch way, so i see no prob puting it on its side, or even fliping it when you work on the plumbing. this is a big project for me, but I`m sure it will be well werth it in the end. good luck... I no i need it " title="Smile" />

Thanks rusty. Gl with your project.

Anyone from the regulars, significantly experienced people?

I am afraid that putting a 1000lbs tub on it's side is a recipe for disaster as I think it will result in a whole bunch of cracks on the shell due to the uneven load and the stress. Opinions?

The most important question is: has anyone tried to move a tub with a forklift and is it a good idea?

Thanks!