I think the clear coat is starting to peel, the 1500 will be fine, just go easy because you will be leveling up the top down to whats left, and the bottom coat will be thin.
Intonation is simple. If you are flat shorten the string, if you are sharp lengthen the string. I have had strings that just would refuse to work. Hope the next guitar is better.
Theres lots of issues here. Even USA made dont really mean all parts are made in the usa. And im betting that most parts are imported and put together in the usa.
Send a email to every member asking what they think would help the process better, keep on the right side of friendship for now. It may turn out great in the end. Or it might be just a short practice session.