Pre-purchase issues (transmission)

[Racin_jason]

So I was looking at an 81 C10 deluxe this weekend and the owner who I kind of know was telling me about this issue he had. its not the reason why hes selling the truck but could be the reason why I don't buy it.. Now i'm not too concerned with repairs no matter how extensive they may be, but the issue is a real head scratcher.

It seems that every time the truck shifts out of first gear into second the engine shuts off. He doesn't know much about the truck, mechanically speaking and at this point I haven't had the truck running or been able to drive it due to a dead battery. I'm plan going back at some point this week to jump the beast and see whats going on but I'm hoping that possibly someone around here can help me figure out this issue before going back.

The truck is all stock 305 but im not sure what trans is in it.. He also said that the choke is all f'ed, dont know if that could be related but its just some extra info..

Thanks,
Rj