Steve if you cleaned the needles with no change then your needles are poorly adjusted. The service manual covers this well--you have a service manual right? If not you can get one in the shoppe. As to changing the engine for a "modern one" here is some simple but true math. Take the value of your car as it is then deduct the money you spend for the "modern unit" from that value and that is where you are. I understand your frustration but have you asked in your club for recommendations as to experts in your are? One of the benefits of JCNA is you can get a clear and honest referral for these issues and yes there are still plenty of us who understand how carbs work.
