Well, its time for me to put on the Stupid Hat. I re-mounted the engine on the test-stand, BOUGHT A TACH, and now it humms along at 8600 RPM with a 13x6 prop on it. Good idle (a little lean at first) and good transition- and I can literally feel that it will improve as it runs in. Geez, do I feel stupid! [:@]

Sorry, guys.