1979 Trans Am, now using Holley 0-80555 carburetor.

[chrislynn5]

I had a small shop perform some work for me on my '79 Trans AM and they talked me into replacing my Rochester QuadraJet with the 80555 spread-bore carb.

'79, 403, mostly stock, mondelo rocker arms and push rods.

I have several issues:
1.) They said it was the same size as the QuadraJet but even with a thin gasket it pushes my hood up, since the gasket on the blower scoop. Is it the same height?
2.) Most important: I have a real bad issue with hard to start when the engine is hot. The engine runs well at 180-190°F. But when I park and let it sit, it's hard to start. I have to pump or hold down the gas pedal and there is a strong smell of gas of course.
3.) When I checked the air filter it reeks of gas.
4.) Checking the canister configuration, I'm not sure if the purge is correct? Is it not using the canister. I thought the shop might have done something with it, so I'm trying a vented gas cap. But I can't tell yet as I can't drive it (bad weather).
5.) With the original gad cap (not vented) the garage smells of gas just sitting.
I also had added a fuel pump since I was getting vapor lock issues.

Any help would be appreciated. Pics attached.
Attachment 3038 Attachment 3039 Attachment 3040 Attachment 3041

[BITE_ME]

Sounds like you're missing a vent valve from/to the canister. You might be able to elongate the holes in the motor mounts to lower the engine a small bit.