Update:
My buddy stopped by....and we adjusted timing a bit...he worked on the air/fuel mixture on the carb. Idleing much better although still seems to be running a bit rich....meaning when you "crack" the throttle she bogs just a split second.....like the engine is loaded with fuel.
I still suspect the power valve in the carb....it maybe leaking some and adding more fuel in during idle.....which you have to open the air up to get to run...which obviously keeps you at a higher idle or she dies because of the excess fuel.......my thinking.
Next steps:
Going to purchase a temp gun to check the exhaust temps on each cylinder just to see if we have anything funny going on. Those guns have become really resonable in price and a quick way to check individule cylinder issues.
My buddy is going to make some calls today and see if we can get our hands on another carb just to throw on to verify we have a carb issue......it may be time to do a rebuild kit.
Track is open tonight...so may take it up to test under load.
Still digging.....but making progress.