It sure looks purdy! Here is some info I've used to adjust foot controllers but I am not sure that the slowness is about the controller or whether it could be the motor. Hmmmm.. I would try adjusting the controller first.
If you hear the snap, crackle, pop, definitely make SURE it is wired correctly! I had a carbon pile type controller recently making snap crackle and hiss and it was the carbon drying out after being kept in a damp environment. Once it dried out, no more sounds! BUT, it was scary. I was wise to be nervous and thus extremely careful. Also with any snapping, be checking for a capacitor inside the motor (unplugged). i hope it's just a couple more minor adjustments!