I'd set my needles 1-1/2 turns from fully closed to get the engine started initially. Out of the box mine was set at about 4 turns, engine sounded like it was having a seizure. Re-adjusted them and it smoothed out nicely. The first gallon of gas should be with premium gas blended 40:1 with a petroleum based 2 stroke oil. I used 2 stroke oil from honda. John, I would try to order some oil if you can't find it locally. I would be hesitant to run synthetic for breakin. Hope your not using synthetic motor oil. Follow the instructions that came with the engine. Initially getting the engine to fire took alot of effort. I squirted a little gas in the carb, this helped. Did you remove the carb from the engine and disassemble the carb? Why would the carb butterfly be reversed? I'd be willing to bet that your idle problems is caused by your low needle being out of adjustment.