Jack,
I looked at my plugs and could not find one that had something on the end of the electrode like you are referring to from the picture, so I guess whatever it was fell off. I agree with your reading, that there is a bit too much timing. I will back it off a couple of degrees and see what I get next time.
Vector,
I hope it is not washed out rings like you had. But I do not sense any loss of power either like you said. Did you lose any noticeable compression after your
oil rings went loose? I have not done a compression check yet, but will in a day or two.
BT,
Come to think of it I did buy gas at a really cheapo place that was convenient just before hitting the road.