Billybolt,
The symptoms you list seem inconsistent with each other. They don't seem to point to the choke. Checking the operation of the choke is straightforward. As Wrenchbender indicated, when cold it should be almost closed, and when warmed up should be fully open. When open, it should be firm and not able to flop closed by itself.
This is easy to check with the air cleaner removed.
Although the problem seems to be temperature dependent, and carburetion would be a suspect, ignition can't be overlooked.
Increased combustion chamber pressure coupled with a slug of fuel/air as you shift the truck and load the engine can cause a marginal ignition system to balk.
Take it for a spin again, and keep a open mind without focusing on Mr. Choke.
Stuart
