1985 chevy 1500 won't idle
 

I have recently bought a 1985 plow truck with a 350 engine. However, when I first drove the truck it stalled and would not start or charge. I proceeded to change the alternator and one gas line to the carburetor. After I did this the truck started but it will not idle, the only way I can keep it running is by giving it gas. Anything thoughts or ideas on what I can do?

It also stalls out when it's in gear and I'm not giving it gas. Thanks!

Re: 1985 chevy 1500 won't idle
 

vacuum leak

Re: 1985 chevy 1500 won't idle
 

Choke not working!!
Got a pic??

Re: 1985 chevy 1500 won't idle
 

could be as simple as adjusting your idle screw...

Re: 1985 chevy 1500 won't idle
 

You are in a cold climate. You need to adjust the choke to stay closed longer. After the engine is completely hot, the choke should be fully open. If the engine idles fine when hot, then the choke is your problem. Make you the choke as 12 volts going to it.

Welcome to the board.

Re: 1985 chevy 1500 won't idle
 

Thank you guys for all the help and Merry Christmas! I have not toyed with the choke to much, however I did let the truck run for a half an hour and then let off the gas and it still died immediately. The choke setup inside the truck is loose and may be broken, I'll have to check once the holiday craziness slows down.
The truck used to idle before I fixed the alternator and the gas line so that's why I was wondering if I bumped something or if the cold weather just finally affected the vacuum. Thanks again!

Re: 1985 chevy 1500 won't idle
 

Use a good carb cleaner first. Then, fix the choke and adjust. After all that, then change the idle. First set the timing, then idle. Over time, these trucks do need minor ingition adjustments. You may need a simple 1/2 turn on the idle screw. Over time, it does wear down from the carb lever hitting the screw end.