Thanks for all the help, Graynomad!
The other 'RS485 functioning' module features a 328P microprocessor as well. Only the master module has a 1284p on it, and this appears to be the one with a bum RS485 chip. At least I hope. Because if the serial pins have wandered from where I expect them to be, then I am in a lot of trouble. However, I doubt it's the serial pins since they appear to be hard coded by Atmel, no? As for the modules communicating with the master, I am planning on using the EasyTransfer library to make the transfers pretty painless.
Anyhow, I have a question that I hope you can answer... I am currently planning on using Ethernet wiring with RJ45 jacks. Two pairs are dedicated to power transmission (i.e. 5v and GND)while one pair is used for RS485 data communication. The remaining pair is scheduled to carry a clock signal (1Hz) and a spare line that may be useful for signaling (i.e. "bus about to be used, do not try to use also"). Would you endorse the use of a buffer chip on these remaining two lines or would it be overkill?
Thanks again for all the hand-holding and enjoy your stay on the east coast! My wife and I drove up to Brizzie from Sydney on our honeymoon, it was further than we thought! XD