When you power cog block with just a redstone torch, it is acting like redstone dust. (First block - 15, Second block - 14 and going down by 1 each next)

But when powered with torch + dust or torch + repeater it is acting wrong. (First block - 15, Second block - Still 15 and only then going down by 1 each next)

That is correct behaviour. Repeaters and upward facing torches are strong signal sources which power the block they touch. If you replace the first cog block with stone in all 3 cases you'll see what I mean. (One issue down quite some more to go lol)