Thanks for the compliments, fellas.
I spent some time with the car today -- set the idle by adjusting, then getting in the car and putting it in gear while holding the brake, then repeating about a dozen times. Not the way the process is described in the factory Service Manual, but it worked.
I think I've scored a 2-groove water pump pulley from a member over at the 301 Garage, so my smog pump delete should be under way shortly (no more bent smog pulley and screeching belt!!).
I also think I've figured out my parking brake problem -- or at least part of it. The parking brake cables are routed under the mufflers (which currently aren't being supported by anything other than booger welds on the downpipe...), which doesn't seem right to me. I think the rear calipers are sticking, as well, so looks like I'll be getting the car up in the air and pulling the rear wheels to see what's going on.
It's a good thing this is my "therapy car," or I'd be stressed out over all the PO's neglect and ill-conceived mods.