update #3

Thanks for all the ideas and advice.

still have some to dos... like identifying the engine...

but here is what I have found and done since update #2.

(1)
tune up Parts came.
I replaced the coil/solenoid, rotor, cap, wires (previously did the plugs, but did not do the points for now).

now the truck starts 'instantly', runs soooooooo smooth (unbelievably so, compared to what it was like before), and I can push the choke all the way in, even when it has not warmed up yet, and it does not stall. a dramatic change for the good.

so, yeah, there were electrical issues to resolve.


(2)
now the engines floods even sooner.... lol so, as many have said, it is the carb as well.

the advice to take it off and rebuild is a good idea. but it will take time to get the parts (and the guts do it). I have never rebuilt a carb before, though I do see some good youtube vids on it.

does it make any sense to take the top off the carb to see if I have a float or clog issue? or is it simply not possible to see if I have an issue that way - and I should just stop screwing around and bite the bullet :)

thanks in advance