FIXED!!!!!!
It took me nearly 2 years which I'm not kicking myself for, but happy
to have my boat back.

I replaced the primer ball and fuel hose to the engine. Also cut off
about 6 inches of old hose between the tank and the ball.

Fired it up and hit the throttle and it shot right up to 5500 RPM's,
just like in the old days. Wow.

Dave