jeepman.. i can't really comment on business debts here.
Ultimately, if you've signed contracts, can the creditor sue you? do they want to sue you. If you haven't signed contracts, does the creditor have any recourse?
Do you have copies of the original contracts with the creditors?
Gaming the system means that you have enough money to pay but are trying to get the creditor to settle by telling them whatever story you need to.
R9 is described here at equifax.com
http://www.equifax.com/EFX_Canada/consumer_information_centre/faqs_e.html#ques14
Rating What it Means
R0 Too new to rate; approved but not used
R1 Pays (or paid) within 30 days of payment due date or not over one payment past due
R2 Pays (or paid) in more than 30 days from payment due date, but not more than 60 days, or not more than two payments past due
R3 Pays (or paid) in more than 60 days from payment due date, but not more than 90 days, or not more than three payments past due
R4 Pays (or paid) in more than 90 days from payment due date, but not more than 120 days, or four payments past due
R5 Account is at least 120 days overdue, but is not yet rated "9"
R7 Making regular payments through a special arrangement to settle your debts
R8 Repossession (voluntary or involuntary return of merchandise)
R9 Bad debt; placed for collection; moved without giving a new address