Carburetor issue

MI30189

MEMBER
1977 FORD E-SERIES VAN
5.8L
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
132,000 MILES

Whenever I try to first start the van I have to pump the gas pedal about ten times, and if it starts then it will start the rest of the day with no problems. But if it does not start, I have to pump then try to start, no start, keep pumping. Then I have to leave it alone for a few hours, then try again. I was wondering if the carburetor needs to be rebuilt or check my timing. The carburetor is a Edelbrock performer that I bought new, but the van has been sitting for awhile. The engine is a 351 m, original engine, Can you help me please?

Thank you,

Mark

P.S. Can you tell me if the 351m is what usually comes in the 1977.

3 Replies

HMAC300

MECHANIC
48,601 POSTS

These came with a few different engines but a 351M is not one of them. Most of them came with w engines. But long as it works does not matter. You can research the VIN number and find out the exact engine. Alcohol in today's fuel messes up carburetors, so check for a low float level or the float sinking in carburetor if plastic. It may have had the center eaten out by the fuel. So a carburetor overhaul is probably in the works.