>So if I try "maxcoind getbalance" - "error: couldn't connect to server"
All I get to know is that "maxcoind anyword" get this error. Use maxcoind --getbalance.
Meanwhile this doesn't get me any info.
I had that issue for a while. I'd suggest editing your maxcoin.conf file to add all the nodes listed here
http://pastebin.com/ZV52qKti . Then, once you start it, give it a couple minutes, then see if it responds.