newbie wants to know how to clean idle jets, finally out for the summer Options

[chocolate.curry]

I just pulled my 914 out of storage and it started right up (well almost). It was a little hard to get going, but ran fine on the way home except for intermittent snap/crackle/pop. I can swear I hear both backfiring in the tailpipe and popping in the carbs. I was told last year before I put it away that it could be worn rings (Ed at CFR), but I want to eliminate other stuff if I can first, because it actually drives pretty well. I love flogging this car (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dead horse.gif) , it doesn't complain and just keeps asking for more at higher RPMs. At lower RPMs it surges a little and generally is not very enthusiastic.

So -- how do I clean the idle jets? I've worked on carbs on a motorcycle before but never on a car. I've searched but can't find a good thread that gives specific enough instructions; maybe I need a manual, but don't have one yet (which one should I get?). I'll move on to checking exhaust leaks after I do this (and then more serious carb issues, or engine work (IMG:style_emoticons/default/mad.gif)). I guess I should check the timing as well (where is the timing mark?) Thanks in advance for helping a newbie!

Ram