Thanks for all the input!! Good ideas... I will look at the carb this weekend first. I will also check the boot as well. I hear 2 conditions... lean & rich. I am going to start with rich possibilities b/c I know that small flames can be seen comming out of the silencer too... it makes sense that it is getting too much fuel.
On the other hand, I originally thought it was LEAN due to high temp. Being this is a different motor for me to work on, I may have a 4 stroke friend help some. I will post the outcome & verify the issue(s) so you guys know what happend.
Thnaks!! Scoot