Yes I agree this is starting to make sense now. However, I hasten to add that in my previous troubleshooting I removed the valve, ran carb cleaner thru it, bench tested with 12 volts (understand that is testing the closure of the valve).

Oh yes, and while the valve was off the car I decided to start the engine. It barely started and the idle was even slower than with the valve in place. I am completely ignorant of how the valve works and where the air flow is coming from but it does confuse me that removing the valve didnt increase the air flow.

I am obviously missing something. I will check again and again check all of the hoses etc for restrictions.

Thanks for the help.