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I have to crank my 71' SB for a while to get it to start when cold. Tried all different methods: pump gas pedal once, pump pedal 10 times, etc nothing helps. Once its warm, it starts right up. I've had the carb rebuilt, all new ignition parts (wires, plugs) including switching to electronic Ignition. Engine was rebuilt 500 miles ago. It started the same way even before the rebuild. New fuel pump too. Any ideas on where to look?
I had that problem with my Edelbrock and probable still do. I do not have a choke and that is the problem.
I fixed the problem when I discovered that on the drivers side of the carb I can push the flap? lever forward and then the car will start the first crank without touching the gas pedal. When you touch the gas pedal the flap? will go to its normal position.
Inconvient to reset it at night, but it works untill I decide to put on a manual choke.
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If your carb fuel filter doesn't have a check valve it is probably allowing fuel to drain out of the bowl when it sits. When you are cranking the cold engine you are filling the bowl until it fires.