I picked up a 1985 F250 w/460 engine. The truck wouldn't start and is sounded tile it was not getting enough gas. I have a buddy that said it seemed like the thermostat in the carb was not keeping the choke closed until it warms up. Sure enough, the choke opens right away. So I got a thermostat from NAPA for $100. I installed it, but I don't think that is the problem.

It has a holly carb and before I install a manual choke, I would like to know if there are any suggestions. I know the manual choke would be the quick fix, but I would rather do it right if I can. I am sure this has been discussed here before, but using words like carb, choke, etc. in the search engine gives too many threads to sift through.

Thanks, Bobby

 

First you need to determine if the carb is the stock Ford 4180 made by Holley or an after market Holley. The stock carb is and emissions carb and if it is they have a number of problems. What does not getting enough gas sound like? The choke heater (not thermostat) can cause starting problems but as long as the choke plate closes when the engine is cold and opens slowly after start up then it isn't the issue. Check the fuel filters. Check the float level. How do you know it isn't an ignition problem.

 

It is the 4180. "Number of problems" eh? That sounds promissing.

The plate does not open slowly, it jumps open when I start it up (or rather try to start it). My understanding is (and I could be wrong) the coiled spring inside the carb thermostat (this is what NAPA called it) slowly opens as it gets hotter, and in doing so it opens the carb plate letting in more air.

When I hold the plate close to restrict air into the carb, it runs fine. So when replacing the 4180, what are most guys going with?

Thanks!

 

The choke heater (car parts saleman as a whole are morons and know nothing about cars) should close the choke plate when the engine is cold and then slowly open the choke plate over several minutes with the engine running as the heater warms up. Either the heater is bad or the choke system is maladjusted, It's probably the latter. Go here and then click on choke adjustment in the table of contents.

http://www.holley.com/data/Products/...199R7948-5.pdf

 

Sweet! Thank you VERY much.

Bobby

 

hello, maybe the carby jetting is simply to lean, if you are in a cold area/state you will
need a choke of some kind, in a warmer/hot state you may not need any choke at all
?? have you checked for vacuum leaks causing a lean condition ??

 

I'm in Wisconsin (GO PACK!) so the cold is definitely an issue. My father-in-law will be coming over Wed to take a look at it. He has owned a few older big blocks and should be able to diagnose the problem.

Thanks for the suggestion.

Bobby

 

I got the truck running and ran for a while, but then the engine seized. I sold the truck, but I do have a couple parts left over that I posted on ebay. If any of you guys want them, I'll cover shipping.

Thanks, cleveland

eBay Motors: Edelbrock 4 Barrel Carburetor w/14" Chrome Air Filter! (item 290267416171 end time Oct-22-08 21:12:31 PDT)

eBay Motors: FUEL PUMP Ford F250 F350 E250 E350 Econoline / Pick Up (item 290267418339 end time Oct-22-08 21:44:30 PDT)