Hello:

I have a 1955 F100 WITH A 1978 302 egine, number stamped on the block is D8VE. The 2 bbl carburetor does not work well, and I doubt it's the original, (the choke plate is wired opened). I would like to replace it with a basic 2bbl with a manual choke. Can anyone point me in the right direction on exactly what I need, is there a 2100 or 2150 with a manual choke available in the market place that would work.

Your carb probably is the original, the date code tells me its a 1978 carb and more than likey is a 2150, I would have to look it up to be more specific.

Those late model carbs, especially the 2150 are really hard to get right, especially when they are not maintained or one gets them second hand. Lots of added stuff that all has to work together or they really mess with the air/fuel mixture, not only that but these tended to run lean from the factory already which exasperates the problems when they get fouled.

As far as a manual choke, Yes, autolite did make manual choked 2100, but mostly on the trucks, problem is most where also on the bigger engines and not the 1.08 to 1.14 venturi's that you would want for your 302.

Personally, I am not a big fan of the manual chokes, I think the hot air chokes that Autolite used on the 2100/4100 are really efficient and work great when hooked up correctly.

I would look for an older 2100 off of a 302/289 either a 1.08 or a 1.14 venturi since you are going on a van most anything would work, A galaxie would be ideal so would a fairlane (and would keep the cost down), but even a mustang or comet would work for this application.

You will probably have to plug some hoses (or get the whole manifold)and/or ports in the intake but easily done in one afternoon.

Good Luck,

Bill White

Thanks Bill for the insight!