Cold Start Problems in 1959

[Ethan M.]

Hello NCRS Members

I am a new Vette owner (1959 with a 327)! I am very excited about owning my 'new' car, it is beautiful. Man they new how to design cars back then!

Anyway, I have had the car for about 3 weeks, I keep it in a covered/enclosed shed in Northern VA. I have driven the car a few times (it drives great), when the cooler/cold weather allows me.

When I go to start it, it takes 4-5 minutes of me trying to turn the car over before it gets started. Once I get it started I have to give it gas for 2-3 minutes (to warm up). If I let off the gas (get the RPMS down) the car stalls and I start over. Once 'warm' it runs and drives great. If I drive for a while, stop the car, it will start right up again. None of the 'cold' start problems. I am afraid that I will drain the battery, or eventually wear out the starter if I have to go through this cold start process everytime.

I am a newbie with the car stuff, I will admit my car vocab and knowledge is limited (but rapidly expanding).

Does this sound like a fuel line issue? Carburetor? Starter?

Thanks for all your input in advance.

[Harry S.]

Re: Cold Start Problems in 1959

Two things to look at/consider.

1) Todays gas will evaporate out of the carb if it sits for a long time. I think we all have this problem.

2) Your problem sounds like the choke. Next time you go to start it after it sits for a few days check the choke. Prior to starting remove the air cleaner lid and pull the throttle linkage with your hand. The choke should set. If not you need to take the choke off and clean it. The small brass piston in the choke is probably all clogged up thus not allowing the mechanicals to work.

[Ethan M.]

Re: Cold Start Problems in 1959

Thank you!! Will do!

[Bob H.]

Re: Cold Start Problems in 1959

Hi Ethan:

Welcome.

Do you know what kind of carb is on it? The choke operates differently on several models and if aftermarket could even be an electric style or one that is not even hooked up.

Pictures would help if you don't know.

It does sound like two issues, one being the fuel in the carb disappearing after sitting awhile and then the choke. We should be able to get this solved for you.

Bob

[Ethan M.]

Re: Cold Start Problems in 1959

Hey Bob and Harry,

I had a chance to look at choke and carburetor, it looks like the carb needs to be rebuilt. I am kind of annoyed, I just got the Vette and it apparently never had the problem before I purchased it. Imagine that. The person I bought it from at least is going to pay for the rebuild kit.

[Bob H.]

Re: Cold Start Problems in 1959

Hi Ethan:

DON'T get annoyed or you will never enjoy the car. here will always be something to tinker with on a 50 plus year old car!!! They can be quite an experience regardless of the level of restoration. Get involved with a local chapter and you'll have guys fighting over who is going to help you.

Bob

[Ethan M.]

Re: Cold Start Problems in 1959

Thanks Bob,
I keep forgetting the cars age and expect things to be perfect. I am a quick study and will have to learn to go with the flow and enjoy the car and its beauty. Thanks for your help.

[Philip P.]

Re: Cold Start Problems in 1959

Ethan,
Why not try to rebuild it yourself, there are good manuals and worse case you have to send it out. Take your time and keep it clean and you may be surprised.
If it is a WCFB I have a couple of manuals in .pdf form that can be sent.

Phil

[Michael W.]

Re: Cold Start Problems in 1959

Hey Bob and Harry,

I had a chance to look at choke and carburetor, it looks like the carb needs to be rebuilt.

A sticking/misadjusted choke does not necessarily mean a complete carb rebuild. Most times they can be brought back to life in-situ. Don't throw the baby out with the bath water.

[Harry S.]

Re: Cold Start Problems in 1959

Ethan,
Why not try to rebuild it yourself, there are good manuals and worse case you have to send it out. Take your time and keep it clean and you may be surprised.
If it is a WCFB I have a couple of manuals in .pdf form that can be sent.

Phil

Phil, can you post the PDF files.

Thanks

[Bob H.]

Re: Cold Start Problems in 1959

What carb is on the car?