Yeah, by planewave data I mean they own the dataset that eqmod uses to solve. I think there are three datasets or methods to chose from? I just use the auto and it seems to chose that one. Its probably not something to think about. If yours is solving at all, it has a dataset to refer to.
Insofar as moving it a bit off the pole, I think a small movement would be a good start, perhaps 3 or so degrees in both dec and RA, in line with Paul's suggestion about direction, too
Sounds like you're very close to having it dialled it!