It all comes down to "does the ECU see the IDL setting and does it see the timing set jumper?". So if you can get the setting at the TPS to read properly, then you need to check if that same reading is getting back to the ECU connector. If not, there is a wiring problem between the two ends. Same with the timing check connector.

As far as what does "xxxxK" ohms mean on a given meter, the best bet is to stop by your local electronics store (like Radio Shack) and pick up a few resistors to practice with. For example, get a 1000 ohm resistor and then make sure you get get a reading that you can interpret as 1000 (+/- whatever tolerance that resistor has) ohms. I have some tips on using digital meters on my web page:
- http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTricks/TPS/index.shtml#HowToUseAnOhmMeter