[Coley]

Okay quick update....(I've been busy so I haven't been able to focus completely on this).
I took the top air horn off the Quadrajet and had a good luck in there. Everything looked good and seemed to be operating correctly..ie: float, linkage, accel pump, rods, inlet valve, etc.....hmmm.
So closed that up and checked the fuel filter at the inlet...not too bad, cleaned that out.
No difference in the constant cranking effort.

So I hooked up a 12 volt wire direct from the battery over to the coil to ensure a full 12+ volts and the pertronix system.
Again, no difference in the constant cranking effort.

So again....I can get it started...but it takes a minute and might give a backfire while doing so...and again, once its started its good for the day and runs great on all fronts.
...bit of a mystery still.

So apparently I haven't solved it yet. I have a few spare quadrajets that I could try to see if that makes a difference.
As well, I haven't had the distributor cap off yet....maybe something in there?

Again...any ongoing input, tips or recommendations welcome.

All good
Coley