I thas a new inline fuel filter and a 3 year old gas tank, so I don't think that is the problem. But I will definately check the base gasket on the carb and clean the plugs off.
This engine will be swapped out for a built up 350 in about 1 year from now, so it has to at least run until then. Then it will probably be retired in the dump unless a Canadian member is interested in it.