OK, the results are in!
Before I started, I checked the ignition timing. It was exactly 10 degrees so I guess my harmonic balancer is where it should be.
I replaced all the ignition parts and timed it with both a strobe and a vacuum gauge. The further I increased the advance the higher the vacuum got, way off the scale on the timing tab. So I think there's lots of room to go higher there. I backed it off and set it at 12 to 13 degrees.
Then I took the carb off and took it apart. (I've looked at so many drawings and videos, it seemed like I'd done it a dozen times before
.)
I was surprised to see the accelerator pump in the top slot (Edit: which in my understanding is primarily for manual cars?).
Both the jets were #65.
I cleaned everything the best I could with carburetor cleaner and ran brushes through the holes. Then I put everything in an ultrasonic bath.
I adjusted the float height slightly, and replaced the power valve and needle/seat. I kept the #65 jets. I put a new cup on the accelerator pump.
I put the accelerator pump linkage in the second slot.
Put everything back together and took her for a drive this morning.
Runs fantastic, no hesitation at all and she really gets going when you step on it. Feels like 20HP more! I'm happy.
Thanks for all your input!!
Oh, one more thing. When I did the final adjustment to the idle at the side of the road, the odometer read 01972! Must be an omen!