Hm, having a bit of trouble uploading pics. While I wait for the webmaster to reply to me, here's an update:
I plugged in a code scanner before trundling off to the smog tester and came up with some problems.
- P1259: VTEC pressure switch circuit or VTEC solenoid valve circuit problems. I suspect that this is the reason for the bogging down/bucking when the engine gets to 4k rpm in first gear under moderate to heavy throttle input. The oil is like mud, so changing it's the first thing I'll do before following the service manual troubleshooting steps.
- P1542: Climate Control Signal Circuit High Voltage. Some googling suggests that this isn't anything to worry about and that I should just reset the codes to see if it goes away. As you'll see when I get pics up, the vehicle has no radio. Are the climate control unit and radio interconnected?
- The dreaded P1449 
: IMA battery pack problems. This is obviously related to my lack of charge/assist. Any suggestions welcome. I'm going to read all the threads I can on fixing up the battery pack. Bumblebee Batteries gets props on here, so I'll give them a call, too, and see what advice they have.
Forgot to mention, no CEL or IMA light.