thanks. ill try that.
ive used screw extractors many times. in addition, i used a screwdriver, like you described, that fit perfectly down into the hole, and the blade fit completely into the slot on the pilot. but this think is IN THERE. i think it had something to do with the P.O.
the screws on the bowls were in there VERY VERY tightly as well. i actually had to drill one out, because it would not budge.
my best guess is that the PO used something like an electric screwdriver to get the screws back in. same problem as when you use an air wrench to put a cap screw back in something... you cant really control the torque, and it jams it in there real good...
i was reluctant to use the blue wrench on it because of the reaction that occurs when gasoline fumes and flames are combined.
i also considered those options before posting on here, but figured id ask, just to see if anyone else had any problems or anything.
although, what you said about drilling out the entire jet and retap the threads, wouldnt i then need an oversized carb to fit into the new threads?