I found the 8FG to be more intuitive than the 9C, but perhaps that is because I had the 9C mostly worked out.   I agree that a Harry Higley style programming guide would be a Godsend.  That's what got me through the 9C and was much more informative as the presentation is a linear process rather than jumping around as a description of features. 

The FAQ on the Futaba Website are also very helpful; though there aren't as many tips for the 8FG.