i figured out the problem. my internet has been too bad to search forums lately (google searches are ok but not one forum would complete a search) and finally i got a tt.net search to finish up today. in the second link that i read, someone's response jokingly added "and make sure your calipers are on the right sides. the bleeders have to be on top or you'll never get all the air out".
20 minutes and a battery charge later, i was breaking my brakes in.