So I got a couple of hours to play today... wired up (1) new Facet pump (with suppressor), and wouldn't you know it, she ran!
What I determined after surprising myself today, was that the throttle cable on this one seemingly needs to be adjusted or replaced (pulling out and locking is fine, but no hertz adjustment). Actually I take that back, I can hear the rpms correspond slightly to my turning efforts, but the gauge does not respond in kind.
Also the ammeter is showing load (just below 25%) with nothing attached, nor the breaker flipped on.
Need to read up more on both of these topics. Just happy to see that I don't have a complete dud! Will wire up the second aux pump hopefully soon, and cross my fingers... all will still work.