thanks for the quick comments.

I think I did a pretty good job clearing out the very minor dirt that was in the carb.

then I blew it all out with compressed air.

I too still think its a fuel issue but not at all sure why the RPMs drop so much with it going in to gear.

Edelbrocks do not have an internal filter..just a tight screen.

keep the ideas coming.. When I get it out on the road... it is FREAKING AWESOME... but as soon as you let off the gas coming up to a stop light I have to put it in neutral..then pop it back into drive..

Could it be a transmission vacuum issue? too much demand?