[TDS-MN]

I've read of Quadrajets leaking fuel out of the float bowl, thus emptying the carb, and causing the symptoms you describe. I have not had the issue with mine, unless I let the truck sit for 4-5 days between starts. You might very well have eliminated the issue with the carb swap, time will tell I guess.

i think "heat soak" is the term you are thinking of. Are you running headers on the 305? stock manifolds shouldn't have the pipes close enough to cause any issues, but otherwise you could be getting the starter hot while running. I have heard of smaller-body starters to help get some more clearance, but have no experience with this condition, even back when I had a truck with long-tube headers. There may be some heat shield or something that is available, I don't know. . . . I would guess that continued heat cycles could be causing long- term damage to the starter.