Cold Weather Driveability

[tomfg]

First winter for my 64 since I got her on the road. Being in Minnesota, I can tell already I need some improvements so the engine runs okay in cold weather.

I have a non original engine that came with the truck. I believe it's a 1978 vintage 350 Chevy. Currently has a aftermarket chrome air cleaner, with no "warm" air induction, etc.

The exhaust manifolds are the ram horn style, probably from the original 64 engine.

I'm guessing that the 78 engine origially had the flex tube from the exhaust manifold to air cleaner, to help warm up the carburater, keep it from frosting up, etc.

Did the original 64 engine or air cleaner have any devices to help it run better in cold weather?

My truck starts pretty good, and the automatic choke seems to be doing it's thing. I started it up this morning....(about 25 deg. F outside) and let it warm up for about 5 minutes. (idled fine) Took off, and it spits and sputters while shifting thru the gears and catches hold.

The carb has been rebuilt.
Am I just too spoiled after driving fuel injection cars the last 20 years,
or is there some improvements I can do??
Thanks for any suggestions, Tom