Classic/Antique Car Repair: cold start, adjustment screws, airhorn

Question
QUESTION: Tazz
My 64 Pontiac 230 6 cyl. is hard to start cold.
This morning I had to prime the carb.
It has a new fuel pump and a reconditioned carb(or so I was told).
Can you suggest anything?
There are only two adjustment screws on the car,one the idle and one I assume the choke.
The idle is good,should I open the choke more?
Thanks.

ANSWER: The other screw is NOT the choke. It is a fuel/air ratio metering screw.

Your choke is the flapper (butterfly) on top and is either manually operated with a pull cable or is automatic.


If it is operating properly (or your are using it correctly[manual]) it will do the same as priming.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Tazz
It must be automatic then.
Any idea why it is so hard to start?

Answer
ok, now we have some info to work on.

With the engine cold, remove the air filter. Depress the gas pedal all the way one time. Does the choke go to a fully closed position? If no, there is a round airhorn on the side of shaft for the choke flapper. Loosen the screws and rotate it in the direction indicated.

If it does close immediately and completely, the choke is working.

When you prime the engine does it start right away or do you still have to crank it a while?