I'm not a turn counter either Dave. I start 3 turns out on the hsn for all my overhauls and that's always been too rich. Just surprised I had to open it further to keep from pitching props.
Thanks on the threading issues. I have a new hsn I can try to see if that helps. Looks like I'll be buying the whole inlet/spraybar kit for this high time engine.
What's the story with the rtv on that pic you posted earlier? Are the big blocks notorious for vacuum leaks at the carb/manifold junction?