Most direct (best) way to activate a new HR54 Genie

After the hard drive in our 5 year old HR54 failed several days ago, I've now just received (from Directv) a new (to me) HR54-500C-R.  I have tons of notes from the last time I activated the previous box 5 years ago but right out of the gate, I had problems back then that I'd like to avoid if possible this time...  

Basic question is how do you recommend one do this activation???  Try the directv.com/activate (appears not to have worked five years ago but maybe now???) or just go directly to calling the number 800-388-6597 that they gave me on the Equipment Activation document...???  

And do I do the 987 remote reprogramming before the activation???  Looks like yes but just wanting to see if I can find the best way forward...  

thanks for any help...