Possible cause......
I got the new pistons yesterday and started the rebuild, paying close attention to everything.  One thing I hadn't noticed before was the block between the carb flange and the block has a crack in it identical on both blocks.  This maybe when extra air is getting in?  Also noticed that the carb flange was stamped VM32 and i have VM34-588 carbs.  The carb goes in the flange a little tight, but it does go in.  I ordered all new blocks, flanges, and main jets so both match.  I was still thinking about installing the old and doing the unlit propane torch test to see if it truely is sucking air through the crack though.  I want to be damn sure this time, don't want to rebuild again.
i also noticed that the plastic washer that goes between the round slide and the e-clip of the needle is gone as well on both carbs.  i am thinking correctly this would cause a lean condition as well.  the needle clipped on 3 without the washer would be like clipping it on 5.