i think i found the issue.
1) replaced fuel filter - no change
2) reduced timing - no change
3) replaced front carb - big change

im running 2 yf2100 carbs.
yesterday it started spewing large amounts of gas out of the base. and i mean a lot. i replaced it. i think it is clogged somewhere and was running lean.

more power too. i just drove it on the freeway over hills that i normally have to downshift, didnt have to downshift with the replacement carb. less stumbling on initial throttle use as well.

lets hope i didnt burn a valve while it was running lean