Hello , I'm having problems with cold starts, its so bad that I've run down the battery trying to turn it over. Once it does start, it only will run on the choke for a few miles. Any help appreciated. Thanks
Hot or cold, a Model A engine that has everything adjusted right will start after you hear the starter compress just a few cylinders (woomp-woomp-woomp-fire) or less.
Are you opening the GAV on the cold engine about 3/4 to 1 turn open? That will give it a richer mixture to help run cold. As it warms up, slowly close the GAV in small turns. If you close it too much, the engine will tell you (start to sputter). End up with GAV about 1/4 turn open on some cars, fully closed on other cars. You have to experiment.
Confirm you don't have any vacuum leaks where the intake manifold bolts to the engine block, and where the carb bolts to the intake manifold.
How long has it been since you have blown out the jets and passages in the lower carb body with some carb cleaner and compressed air? It is easy for rust or crud to block a passage and make the carb run too lean.
Check your ignition point gap; it should be 0.020". If too far off, you get a weak spark that will have a harder time igniting the fuel.
How old is the gas? Left over from summer? If so, replace with fresh "winter gas" for easier starting.
Let us know how you end up.
