I just unbricked a router through its serial port using an arduino. As much as I wished to go back in time and leave the router alone during the process, when I saw the console in my laptop screen I had a wonderful Eureka moment.
After a whole day of trying (and failing) to replace my ISP router, I could use a win, even if that just meant leaving everything exactly as it was this morning.
It certainly looks like you’ve past the point of no return… I admire your determination!
Good work!