Well, I got it. It's not 100%, but it's better than good enough. All that is remaining is a very slight "alternator whine" which is quite acceptable. And by acceptable I mean that on the CD player's volume scale of 0 - 80, the alternator whine cannot be heard below 70, and I never go past 65.

A more professional ground of the sled should finish the job, but that will wait until after the car has had some minor work done.

I performed each of the 3 steps that I outlined yesterday, so either one or all three in combination did the job. I feel so much better.

Again, thanks for help and suggestions, everyone.