Poor cold starting. No automatic choke

[Bozza]

Hi,
I have a 1983 t25 which had a new(?) 2.1 short block with reduced compression (8.5-1) fitted by Laurie Pettit in 2004, during previous ownership. It has the Weber carb but no choke (the previous owner told me the reason why Laurie didn't fit a choke but I can't remember why!) It still runs as sweet as anything and when I bought the vehicle in 2011 it started fine.

However after a couple of years I'm now really struggling to get it started from cold (starts fine when hot). I've renewed all filters, plugs, ht leads, distributer cap etc and the starter battery is good. Oh, and it had a new fuel tank and parts in 2006.

The question is do I fit an automatic choke or am I just being a numbty at starting the beast!? If I did fit one would this be detrimental in any way... why did Laurie Pettit not fit one?

I would really appreciate some help on this one.
Cheers, Tom.

[faggie]

just pump the pedal twice and then turn the key, as soon as it starts keep the revs up with the throttle till its warm enough to idle

[Bozza]

Many thanks faggie. I've given it a go a couple of times and its definitely getting easier to start.
Cheers