Update:
I did disconnect/reconnect USB during the screens of the Hardspl unlocking app by cmonex and then it was able to go a step further.. it asked me to update rom.
but that also fails.. because it goes from 0 to 100% in just 20 seconds or so. and i dont think it did anything..
i clicked Update
this finished in 20 seconds or so..
ill donate as soon as this thing works!