Adult violin self teaching.....?

I did Suzuki starting at age 23, but with a teacher, and I already read music. So basically we were just using the music, not the technique. As for getting a good note out, it might just be the violin - much of the stuff on eBay is crap and unlikely to do much for you besides frustrate you. You could have rented a much better violin for less than you paid for that - still could, so consider that. And also very strongly consider getting a teacher, at least for a few lessons - it's far too easy to let yourself move on before a teacher would tell you you're ready, and to ignore things like intonation and bowing.