You are correct about looking for a squirt of gas when operating the throttle valve.
Heed Materman's advice about not tearing the carb apart. It is advisable to save that task for last, as the carb is harder to deal with, and is often not the culprit. Start with checking the easier stuff first, like incorrect timing, stuck intake heat box valve, and vacuum leaks. These will cause that dead spot.
Carl
