Why is it hard to start when cold?

106,000 MILES
Avatar
CADDYDADDY78
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I inherited a big 78 Caddy that sat in a car port for six months unused. The engine is a 7 litre with a 4 bbl carb. 106,000 miles

I put in platinum spark plugs (heard mixed reviews about that) recommended by auto zone. Gapped the plugs as suggested.

I installed new plug wires.

A mechanic rebuilt the distributor area for me.

I have to crank the pedel about six-10 times, sometimes wait a minute before she cranks. Once she is warm, she starts right up. Even after 6 hours she will crank instantly. It is when it sits over night it is a pain.

What can I do to fix this?

Thank you!
Jun 13, 2012 at 8:02 AM
Avatar
KHLOW2008
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 41,812 POSTS
Check the carb fuel float level and look out for leaks. If there are leaks, the float chamber would be dry and that would require exensive cranking time before it fires up.
Check the choke condition as well.
Jun 13, 2012 at 8:29 AM
Avatar
CADDYDADDY78
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Thank you for the advice. That makes sense to me. I will find someone to help with this since I do not know how to do it, and do not want to pay $120 an hour at a firestone.
Jun 13, 2012 at 9:21 AM
Avatar
WRENCHTECH
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 20,760 POSTS
[quote]do not want to pay $120 an hour at a firestone.[/quote]

I doubt they will either and they certainly aren't worth $120hr there.
Jun 13, 2012 at 10:08 AM
Add a reply
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle