Ok, I busted out the screwdriver and flashlight to do some more digging. I removed the panel just to the right if the circuit board so I could see what was going on. The first thing I noticed was that the circ pump was smoking. I immediately turned the breaker off. Whereas yesterday it was just warm, today it was scalding hot. This leads me to conclude that the pump is responsible in some way. I think at this point since I'm neither handy or lucky, it may be easiest to replace the pump. I'm not sure I could identify enough parts on or related to it in order to fix it as opposed to just putting a new one in. It could just be a valve or clogged up with hair. I just don't know.
FWIW, I found that the tub is indeed a Capri, made in 1998. I also pulled some numbers off the pump. Model is sm-909-nhw-18. Part # is 6226.9. A few other #'s I pulled were 230v, 1ph, 60hz. It also said 30 psi (2bar). I googled the model number and found quite a few options for a replacement. The cheapest replacement I found was about $100, all the way up to $200+.
If it is allowed, could someone link me to a reputable site with the right replacement part so I don't buy the wrong thing? I currently have an order pending from a site that I ordered a new filter, some fix-a-leak, and a couple other items. The problem is that the only shipping option was FedEx ground, which in reality meant Smartpost. This means I might get my order by 2015. Price isn't that big an issue, but getting the correct part in a timely manner is. I just don't have enough experience ordering spa parts yet and thus don't know the good sites to use. I've worked at UPS for almost 15 years and trust them, but again, I just don't want to wait 2+ weeks for the pump to arrive. I wish I was handy enough to fix it myself as I have a feeling that it's something minor. That's just how it works for me.
I apologize for the wall of text, but I wanted to provide as much info as possible so you experts can help me in the best way. In fact, I typed all this from in the spa on my phone. I'm in love with it and can't wait to gain more knowledge and get this thing working properly. I've already learned a ton by lurking and reading posts. Again, thanks to those that took the time to read all this and answer my questions.
Regards,
Don