thanks all -
so, last nite - I used 1tbs to 4oz of plastic - added before heating - it never suspended - I added another tbs after heating (and pouring a couple of baits) and started to get some consistency in salt content in the bait - I then remelted everything (after chopping up the remaining plastic and puddle of salt from the bottom of the cup) - at that point I could tell a 'difference' in the consistency of the plastic.
I was using a dark color - the bait was a shade lighter, but still good color - did not seem noticably 'softer' (which is not the goal - the goal is salty goodness when the fish bites it).
So, some progress -
a) 2tbsp per 4oz of 'regular' CCM plastic - stirred in after heated.
Going to do this again tonite with a fresh batch and see if it is consistent.