Guess I should have updated this post! First thing I did was add the spacer between the carb and the intake. It was definitely vapor lock. That made an absolute night and day difference that eliminated most of the problems. I also had the battery tested and had a bad battery, even though it was brand new. Additionally did some carb tuning, and the car starts up without many issues unless it has been sitting for a bit. Have not installed the starter yet, but car have lots of things to do this winter to include starter, alternator, starter cable cable, FBO ignition box, aluminum heads, etc. I will keep everyone updated.