I attempted the 2 scenarios:
1)
setting up with wasted spark: I could not get this to work because it appears I need the logical, or stepper ignition output to make this work. I have 5 independent coils wired to 5 drivers (see image of the coils on page 2 of this thread). When I attempt to set the ignition values, I am limited to the 8 physical drivers; also the UI keeps resetting my 'cylinders' value (in engine setup) from "10" to "1" when saving. This seems to be a software problem, but maybe it's just that my current configuration is clashing with what I'm trying to do.
It seems like wasted spark won't be an option without some re-configuration of my entire ignition solution though.
2) I did start the car in the garage and then unplugged the secondary. There was no hesitation or stumble when I did this, so I proceeded to rev it up, and I still observed the "Less pr. trig" error when I reached that point. (This was done using my current 'best' configuration)
I did adjust the Crank sensor to be very close to the trigger wheel, at about 1.0 mm; this got me to 3800 RPMs before the trigger error, so a mild improvement. The fact that moving the sensor is the
only thing that has shown any kind of change throughout all of this troubleshooting makes me think that VR sensor is the issue.
I ordered a new sensor, the type from an Audi/VW 1.8t so we'll see if that helps. It won't arrive until Wed unfortunately so more waiting...
Guess I'll work on another project in the meantime.