Hi, Syd, hi, Jen. Syd, the saves didn't work. Still getting bad data. However, I was finally able to work this puzzle out myself. I was totally shocked when it happened and for future gamers, here's what my problem seemed to be: I was jamming the conveyer too soon or too late. Just as the flaming scuttlefish went behind the back pole, I jammed the paintbrush in then ran to the kitchen, poured the grog and I must have gotten the ship in the right position finally cause I got the famous cutscene at last.
Now I'm actually starting to enjoy this game. Thanks again for your help!