It doesn't make sense, but since the engine was operating (smoothly) I drove around the block to test it a little, then put the cover back onto the ECU, taped up the un-used  ring terminals from the distributor junction block,  and the rev counter started working.  It still needs a proper tuner some adjustments, but I  put about 12 miles on it today.

I still plan to put on a kill switch for the new module.  Would you prefer to break te switched 12V line, or the connection from the + pole on the coil to the B terminal on the  module?  I think the first location would be preferred, as that is what occurs when you turn onn the keyswitch.  I have a remote 10A relay that would be  ideal for that.