After more adjustments, unfortunately little progress. I was able to see that the V101, when adjusted controls where the laser moves to some extent. For instance by turning it 1/3rd, the result is that the laser won't travel to the outer edge to read the game, but the game also doesn't proceed unless the laser goes to the edge..
What I find unusual is that I can boot up a CDR game, and play some of it. Once it goes to the edge, the same problem occurs as with an official game, something's wrong with the travel point of the outer edge, and the disc wanting to turn backwards. I actually had the backup CDR moving really fast backwards for a while, it was just after the lens went to the edge and about 10 minutes in to the game.
I guess changing the pots might do it, I'll double check my laser caps again to make sure I haven't reversed or created a bad connection.
Also should note that at one time, I had it running so that the laser would go to the edge, and return about an inch and continue to read games. I haven't been able to get it there again. I wonder if I've burned the laser out with so many adjustments.
Finally the C102 Cap, which is supposed to be 3.3uf 50V, is 3.3uF 35V. I've read that this Cap needs to be 50V, but I'm not sure how important that is.