Yep...those are the same instructions I followed precisely the 1st time (with the only difference being the one I already mentioned in the post). Same post, even.
Notice I'm asking about this working on a PORTABLE install....I'm well aware other C2 users are using Spriter. I haven't seen anyone using it on a PORTABLE install, & I haven't seen anyone having this problem I'm having, so I'm inclined to believe that's the conflict. If I'm wrong, then I'm wrong, & I'd like to know what works. Because following the instructions didn't.