Stuart- The starting fluid is what gets my engine running. I try all these different twists on getting the engine started with no luck, but if I put a puff of starter fluid down the throat, it cranks up and runs great. It seems I can't quite get "over the hump" when cranking.
4onthFloor: The choke works fine, I think. Once I get it started with the fluid, I have good idle at high rpms. After a few minutes, I can push in the choke and the engine idles fine at low rpms.
The short version of the problem is that it won't cold start unless it has a spritz of starter fluid, then it runs fine. It also seems to start fine for an hour or two after warming up.
I have to start someplace. I'm out of town now, but I think when I get back I'm going to begin with a carb rebuild kit and replace the accelerator pump/gasket (only) and see the effects. That was my brother-in-law's first suggestion and also got some positive feedback here in forum. Since I'll be dealing with him for the rest of our lives, so I think I owe it to him to start with his suggestion.
The cautions to only tinker with one thing at a time are well-taken. Progressing down the fault tree, next I'll rebuild the rest of the carb, then replace points/condensor, then spark plugs, then decide from there whether to go coil, wires, or whatever. I think at this point I have too many possibilities and I need to start eliminating some. I'll report back later with what I find.
Thanks to all for your inputs. This is what makes Stovebolt.com great!
Bill
