So, based on Jsloan's advice above I went through the process of a paid upgrade on an upcoming, two class flight. And voila if you click through to terms and conditions they state, in part, "Fare rules associated with your original itinerary will also apply to your new itinerary.". So, indeed the stench of economy fare rules do follow you to the mid-front of the plane even with the upsell

Thus ends my strange, maddening journey into the bowels of UA's MileagePlus program. I've decided to accept the $250 travel voucher that UA offered a couple days ago.

What did I learn?

1. UA agents, supervisors and others, even at the 1K desk, have no idea about the arcana of upgrade priority. Maybe it's because PE and PlusPoints are relatively new? The fact that I was advised, months ago, prior to purchase, that the PE upgrade would prioritize my reservation above economy still irks me
2. I continue to believe, based on the website language, a fully paid PE seat should take priority over a GS in economy for Polaris upgrades
3. This forum has a lot of extremely knowledgeable people. I thank all of them