Pgitug
We do sections of this a lot and some not as often but I'll attach a file of notes for the Oswego to Buffalo section. If you need more on the Eastern section I can do the same - might even help me prep for a trip we're making in July to Albany then Lk Champlain.
By early I'm assuming you mean early season - NY Canals officially open May1st +/- depending on conditions each yr - some yrs have seen delays in sections due to high water - there is a
NY Canal Notice to Mariners webpage where you can get current info and/or sign up for auto updates of new info.
If you are used to locking NY shouldn't be any problem - only challenge is there isn't much consistency of how you tie up - some have recessed rigid pipes, some cables (attached top & bot) others just lines secured at top only ... all have ladders at both ends... Need to be flexible & prepared for surprises...
Are you gas or diesel? - generally fuel readily available but I can possibly recommend a few quality locations where quality may be better.
Seneca & Cayuga nice side trip if time permits - Seneca (out home) has the cleanest water you'll find anywhere in the NY system
Some highlights E of 3 Rivers - Sylvan beach - wall, marinas, restaurants; Utica; Little Falls; Near Albany we usually stop at Schenectady Yacht Club near the top of the flight down to the Hudson - they have fuel, pool & nice friendly folks - bottom of the flight there is wall & restaurants which are popular but we haven't stayed there (yet). Oneida Lk is shallow & rocky best to just stay in the marked channel and you are fine.
Early season frequently you need to watch for debris if water was high recently.
In addition to the guides mentioned already I'd suggest Active Capt - they have a lot of info for this section and it generally more current than printed guides.
If you want more PM me and I can send more and/or give you a cell # if you have any questions B/4 or during your trip.