Hi everybody, my name is Randy. Nickname is mdntoilburner because I'm normally a fan of diesels, I own an 03 Golf TDI and a 1985 Mercedes 300SD... not that that matters here though. I just recently picked up a 1978 Bronco (fullsize) from my cousin that just gave it to me since he got a new PowerStroke and was wondering about the proper startup procedure for a carbureted gas engine. I know this has been gone over before, but I really would like to know what the best way is, it seems like it is better to pump the gas more often than not... doing nothing as most do with diesels doesn't work at all. I am not a complete moron, just new to gas engines in general, esp. carb'd, never owned one. So please bear with me. Maybe one of you with a video cam. could be so nice as to post an MPG or the like of the startup procedure that you use, showing your foot on the gas and how your truck reacts to that. Maybe the carb isn't tuned properly? I don't think mine is starting the way most of you describe yours do upon cold startup... Pumping it once, then cranking does really not do much, it sputters to life after about 10 or so seconds then requires pedal movement to keep it running. Anyway, thank you all in advance for a video or further advice, it is greatly appreciated, and I look forward to being an active part of the Ford Truck community, you guys are great... I can't wait to learn more.

 

What is the outside temp when you are starting it? Above freezing, generally one or two full pumps, hit the key and it should start up and stay running at a higher idle than normal, until it warms up. Below freezing should be the same but may require an extra pump or two. If yours doesn't act this way, it maybe in need of a tune-up or carb adjustments.

Marty

 

I live in southern california, so temp. should not be a problem at all. That is the main reason why I wanted a video or someone else's cold start procedure, to see what their engine does as opposed to mine.

 

Sounds like a possible choke out of adjustment.