Best Answer
The timing and idle issue seems to be solved at this point. For all of those who were pointing to a vacuum leak - give yourself a pat on the back. The interesting thing is where I found the leak...
I took the upper manifold to replace a leaky injector ring and decided to test the VICS check valve, it is supposed to be a one way valve, but mine was open in both directions, possibly flowing air backwards and when it should not have been, perhaps giving the appearance of a vacuum leak.
While I can't say for certain this was the problem, I can tell you a new VICS check valve made all my problems go away. The timing is steady, the idle smooth, and it will hold a partial 2000 RPM throttle.
THANK YOU everyone for all of your input!! Miata people are a great resource and awesome community.
Bruce