I know "alot" of people have had problems with the C&L's....but not sure if that might be it or not...although you did say that the problem persists whether the chip is in or not correct? I've got the PMAS 3" protube on mine and I can crank it up and drive it around with 60# injectors with just a stock computer.... Mine ran decent enough (albeit with a $h!T ton of exhaust leaks) just like that but I was scared about boosting it and running it lean....
Have you tried a different meter?