David,
Problem solved.
I took the carb barrel out, and the air bleed hole was definitely smaller than 1/8 inch. So I drilled it out. While I was at it, I cleaned the regulator, but I didnt' really see anything in it, so I don't think that did anything. But while I had the carb barrel out, I noticed that the bottom O ring on the intake manifold had been pushed down and out of its seat, and was 1/2 hanging in the carb. So I took the engine off, took the carb back plate off, slid out the intake, fixed the O ring, and put it back together.
All of this, and I was able to richen the regulator back to flush, and it will idle all day at 2100 to 2400. And I'm getting good smoke all the way through the range. And, the top RPM's on my 16X10 APC went from 8400 to 8700 like that, and it's still a bit rich....Probably turning 9 in the air....perfect.....
All of this and no onboard glow! Today I ran two tanks (48 oz) through it, and it never once died unless I killed it with the trim slide. I was able to idle down on final without worrying about if it was going to die or not. I did countless touch and goes with no problems.
This engine is a horse!!!
Now, if my Bridi Killer Bee maiden in the morning goes this well then I'll be VERY happy!!!
thanks again!!!
Carl