So update:
Replaced carb with brand new one mid-summer 2019, got it dialed in and motor runs flawless, although top speed is max out at 27MPH.
Winterized and stored, (I like seafoam!) I just pulled it out of storage March 2020, replaced gear oil before winter storage & after, clean plugs, fresh fuel & mix oil and started right up reinvigorated and ready for spring shakedown run.
Had it out on a chilly morning & she purrs, especially with new thermostat helping hold correct motor temp too.
Top end no issues, minimum throttle & idle no issues even with troll plate engaged, runs just fine with plate at .6 to 1.0MPH great for spring eyes.
Now here's where I run into some issues...when I go to troll for spring salmon, I need to get troll speed in around 1.75 to 2.25 AVG with 2.4MPH max for spring salmon, but when I try to get throttle set on anything above minimum throttle it bogs down and conks out, but starts right back up. This is a consistent occurrence.
I've taken to pulling motor cover and tuning idle speed on carb temporarily to troll at these speeds, then set it back, but not sure if this is what I really need to be doing.
Seems like the new carb has that sweet spot that the jets & needles have a hard time finding.
Any thoughts???