I know this sounds a little elementary, but which way do you count on the needle? is the e-clip in the top position (needle all the way down) in the #1 or #5 slot? also, what is the stock e-clip position and stock air screw adjustment on a '98 Mach Z.

The clip slots count from top to bottom, #1 being on top. If there is a washer with the clip it goes below the clip, but in some cases can be put above for 1/2 clip tuning.

clip 3 4 turns are the stock specs in my book