Is this Demon just junk or am I just junk at dealing with it?

Not meaning to overstep anyone.
I agree it looks too tight
Disconnecting that linkage and seeing if it comes back to fully closed will tell you if it needs adjustment. (I'd loosen it up anways)

If that doesn't help the only idea I have left is taking the pump cam off and making sure it isn't holding things up. ( like forced on backwards or something)