Giving Mater some attention again. Questions!

[Smallz72project]

So I finally finished installing the engine into the 94 K1500 (only to find the transmission is smoked) so I was able to pull it out of the shop and open up a bay. So I figure its time to work on the 84 K10 again. It has a tough time starting due to the carburetor being tired. So I plan on pulling the manifold/carb and installing new. The q-jet thats in it has an electric choke (and a choke light illuminates on the dash), but there is also a choke cable inside that I can pull. I usually have to use the cable to get the truck to idle long enough to run on its own. Is this normal or has something been changed do you think? It used to be a Sheriffs truck. Im just unsure if I should get a carb with electric choke or manual.