I think I solved my problem with the smoke. It has been mentioned for the new PS3 engines that there are 8 steps to the smoke and to rev up the engine to go the different steps. I tried it and I am getting more smoke out, not as much as my PS2 in the MU but close enough that it not as noticeable.
Now if I can figure out why my one engine comes on by itself. It appears that it does it anywhere in the system so I don't think it is a voltage problem. Maybe the new PS3s are more susceptible to noise in the system and mistakes it for an actual signal or it thinks it should be in conventional mode.
I may try changing out the wick at some time in the future. Can you get the wicks at a full service MTH shop or do you have to order them directly?