Yep, curiousB, it was low-coolant and air blockage which prevented water from flowing through the TB. The sensors assumed the engine was cold and tried to rev it up accordingly. At least I'm fully versed in spark plug R&R as I took the old ones out, put new ones in, took the new ones out, put the old ones in, took the old ones out (again) and installed the new plugs, again. All for nothing. Crazy waste of time.
And I will order a gasket and remove the TB for a thorough cleaning later on this summer - if it ever gets here.
Thanks again.
Cheers,
Kevin