On the reeds,if there is any gap between the block and reed,then there is an issue. Over tightening will do this,and fatigue. If it is running real bad off bottom I would expect the plug to be wet! In jetting I prefer to start at the bottom,drop the pilot,as warm as it is here,I would expect to be leaner than stock! The needle would be next,again go leaner. The main is where the bolt ons come in,you may be okay,short of a plug viewer,you are not going to be able to read the main,unless you cut the plug! Dark deposits on the porcelain could mean you could run a hotter plug. Have you read the plug reading 101 thread? You are getting second hand imfo from me,the search vault here is priceless! If you cannot adjust the choke to get an idle it will tell you which way to go on the pilot,and replace the float valve for sanities sake,should be replaced once a year,without question!