I've been through your deal not once, but twice, so my condolences. There are a lot of blabber-mouths on the IML that can't contribute anything but anectdotal information.
How to rebuild a carb correctly or do good body-work? No clue, but they sure can tell you where you went wrong on your buying experience. Screw it. 70% of the messages here are fluff. It's the 30% that you really want to pay attention to, and that's the nature of a public forum.
I am parting out a barn full of 64-66 parts. I have lots of stuff. If you need anything, let me know and I'll help as best I can. Most of the stuff is in superior condition. Not much trim, but it can't hurt to ask.
I sure hope that thread dies soon. Live and learn.