Trever Maas,
I know exactly what you are saying. It is frustrating not being able to go to one component and say, this is the culprit! What we are talking about is the "E" word. EXPERIENCE, and you are getting it right now. If you do everything right, next time it will be that much easier.
I think the carburetor kit has a set of foolproof instructions included..it shows ball location AND size. Take your time and follow each step carefully. I'm sure more advice is right around the cyber-corner.
Stuart.