The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Carburator help please.........

Starting my 216 cid is no problem. Fires up every time on the first try. Problem is that I MUST pull the choke out 1/3 of the way in order for it to run smoothly. If I do not then it coughs and sputters, especially when shifting into 2nd gear or when under a load, like pulling up hill around a curve in 3rd gear. This continues until it gets really hot, about 15 minutes, then I can push the choke in and it usually does not do it too much more. It actually sounds like it's back firing through the carb when it happens. I know it is running rich because the oil smells like gasoline after some miles are put on the new oil change. The engine runs beautifully in every other way.

Is there an adjustment I can make on the carb or distributor or do I need to buy and install a carb rebuild kit?
I'm no mechanic but I'm handy with a wrench.

Thanks,
Spot

If you have to pull out the choke to get it to run good it is usually a sign of a lean mixture. First I would try advanceing the timing a little. Set the idle mixture a little on the rich side. If that doesn't do it you will need to go into the carb. If it is a Rochchester it is easy to pull the top off & check it out. Check the float level. Make sure the power valve plunger goes up & down & pushes the ball off the seat. If it's a Carter you will have to pull it & rebuild it.

i had bad gas give me symptoms like this.I would check points,timming and all the simple stuff before digging to deep

the oil smells like gasoline

Leaking needle & seat
Leaking fuel pump