exhaust questions in re jets/mixture/etc

so im coming to the conclusion that i should rejet before i blow up my engine. not sure if im closing in on that scenario or not as i dont know how to tell but i have a few questions i think we be relatively easy for you all to answer for me. i did several searches and found some info, but then decided i may need specific answers

so i removed the mufflers just after the collector box, and havent rejetted or adjusted mixture screws (still capped) and im not planning on pods or anything, stock airbox is a-ok with me. had some 4" baffles on each side for awhile but felt like it was creating too much pressure at high speeds, felt like i was holding it back and needing to let more gasses out so i removed them. plus didnt care for the note, reviews warned me about that too but i had to see for myself. i like the way it runs now, but seems to be creating a lean condition. plugs are white/chalky, not as bad as some pictures of SUPER lean plugs, but not good either.

does anyone know if i would be better to try to adjust the mixture first? or is that not going to alleviate anything for me? it seems in theory it would help, yes?

ive also read that just using bigger main jets doesnt mean more fuel/less air, but it helps? so im wondering if there is any advantage to using SMALLER air jets, either with or without using LARGER main jets?

also, as a side question: i was wondering if i could just use some muffler packing, secured between the collector box and the tips i intend on getting with some screens or something? seems like that would create just enough resistance but not change much of the dynamics. is that remotely the case? i have no clue, just made sense in my head.

or does somebody just want to tell me what i should do, instead of me taking stab after stab in the dark? heh

any input would be great, thx!

ps: my 2nd cylinder also doesnt seem to make itself known until its warmed up, or i rev it to kick it in. i am thinking this is related somehow? it didnt start until recently, and when its warmed up it purrs but upon initial start, its late to the party. i assumed it was something that could be remedied with the mixture screw for that carb perhaps?