My VF3 that I bought used, has about 17 rows with 8 or 9 drain holes per row. I have no idea if this was the original pattern or not. When I notice a lake forming, I run the chip auger for a few seconds. This is likely necessary anyways, otherwise the lake will form on the other side of the machine eventually. I think you can program the auger to run, but I have never resorted to that yet.
Yes, chips do get through to the first stage catch basin in the chip pan. I use a piece of window screen (doubled over) to keep most of the chips from washing through the slots in the basin. Only the really fine stuff gets through and settles out in the main reservoir.
First you get good, then you get fast. Then grouchiness sets in.
(Note: The opinions expressed in this post are my own and are not necessarily those of CNCzone and its management)