@psherman Thank you for the information! I had heard of the flash short trick but was unsure if it would restore ethernet telnet access as every example I had read about was suggesting following it up with serial access. It is reassuring to hear that you have done this before.
An update on my side: I'm confounded on how to get the case open. I know there are plastic clips holding the top in place, but have been unsuccessful in prying them open. Do you have any advice on what tool might work well? I almost stabbed myself with a flathead screwdriver earlier and am loathe to repeat that.
I think the biggest propblem I will face with the LEDE install is getting the 5ghz radio to work. I was planning to follow the advice here: Linksys e3000 with LEDE - is this accurate to your knowledge? If I intend to do any other risky things in the future, I'll consider the extroot - again thank you for sharing that. It could be invaluable in saving me time some day 