OK guys, after richening the idle a little the high speed adjustment was normal. The engine runs quite well now from idle to full power with a pretty good transition. As a result, I finally flew a 1/5 Thomas Morse Scout built by another club member more than 10 years ago, which had never had a successful flight because of both engine and radio problems.

So there really is something weird about this engine--the low speed needle is quite tolerant in its effect on the idle, but it is very sensitive in its effect on the high speed needle. So, like the old Fox carbs, you actually have to adjust the low speed first and then the high speed, but it is a bit of a guessing game because the low speed needle is pretty insensitive and it's hard to tell when it is right for the idle.

The engine problems are fully resolved; there is still a radio problem, but that's another story and another forum. The Scout was absolutely beautiful in the air. Thanks for all your help.

Jim