So I did open up the framework. I followed the Touchpad Rubbing Fix Guide - Framework Guides but also unscrewed the unit completely and removed the plate in front of it to actually be able to pull it slightly out without having to disconnect all those ribbons as in Touchpad Replacement Guide - Framework Guides…
I scrubbed the pads under the two tabs on the sides of the touchpad module. Hard to explain where that is:
The above image outlines a screw at the bottom left of the module. The tabs are at the top-left (and top-right), slightly to the right and below that top-left screw, I circled the area in red. I think those are actual connectors that when the touchpad is pushed, the are open which makes the “tap” be detected… But I’m really just guessing here.
Things look a bit better at first glance… but now I’m docked so I’m not actually using the touchpad… will report later.