think my dad and I got it. carb on and off 3 more times adjusting float level. it is working at the moment with nary a drip. My guess is the little plastic shaving was there from assembly all along and it just moved a bit to the side, where it was when I found it. Dont really understand how it worked at all, being so far out of adjustment. Found and fixed another item or 2 during the process. I figure if someone, or a company used todays technology along with quality workmanship (as opposed to crappy workmanship) they would be the only game in town.
thanks to all who have responded. could still use a book, if anyone has a manual I can download Id appreciate it.