If lots of fuel, you will hear popping in the exhaust b/c raw fuel is making its way through the exhaust valves to the exhaust pipes. UticaGeoff
I have a Edlebrock Thunder Series 1806 carb. When I start her up my wife always complains about the gas smell which also happens sometimes when driving. Odd thing is that the car actually runs rather well with the occasional rough running. Plugs look fine but I am sucking gas at about 4-6 miles per gallon with a light foot. I get the fact that's its a big block but it seems its sucking and burning excessive gas. Other than that it runs like a beast with no hesitation or other issues.
Sounds like you need to tune it. Very easy to replace the primary rods and jets. An AFR gauge makes it easier. 4-6 MPG babying it is pitiful.
Check your electric choke setting first. Choke might be sticking on a little. There's instructions in your manual, but here's what I do. Get the engine up to full operating temp, and make sure the choke blade is full open. Then loosen the screws holding the choke cover, turn it until the choke blade just starts to close, and then back off a notch or two and re-tighten the screws. Should be good after that.
