So unless I introduced a gasket problem, I am still chasing the old issue.

I think I'll try the oil change (it's in the book... although I have a hard time believing it could be the cause of an idle issue), check the spark gap... (I did just install a new plug) and then swing back to the gaskets, and try gas from a different station... (hell, who knows).

Man alive, something like a tender outboard should not be all that sensitive... you want the thing to be like the energizer bunny and just go and go and go.

I'll get some brake cleaner with the red straw too... GRIN (handy stuff anyway)

Thanks guys.