I would just work on the Edelbrock.

I have an Edelbrock 650 AVS that was having some issues. I recently took it apart and cleaned it up. There was crud in the bowls. I replaced the needles/seats, and adjusted the floats. It seems to be working good as ever now.

Are you sure the choke isn't working? Take the air cleaner off and with the car cold, turn the key on but don't start the car. Watch the choke for a couple minutes and see if it opens. Also check that it is hooked up.