Rep Power: 0

Just started getting into vehicles and got me an 83 honda civic 1500. lookin to fix it up, but so far i got new spark plugs,distributor cap n rotor, and wires on the way. what else should i look into to get my car running in tip top shape?

Problems:

slow start up (accelerator has to be depressed in order to start. not sure if thats how its manufactured)

slightly rough idle

smell of fuel while driving and gas(maybe a leak?)

 
Rep Power: 205

carbureted right? It probably needs some TLC at this point. Could try just running something like Seafoam through a tank of gas and see if it improves. I believe the '83 had an inline fuel filter under the back seat...might be worth replacing as well.

 
Rep Power: 0

Yessir it is carburetted. I took care of the fuel filter (primary and secondary) which was both in front and back of the vehicle on the driver side. I've also tried some seafoam type additives like Lucas's engine n carburettor cleaner. at this point now i wont die out but start up is still rough.

any other quick beginner repairs you suggest id gladly keep in mind :]

 
Rep Power: 175

Yep. Totes normal for a carb!

You could always pull your intake off and give the carburetor a good scrubbing with some carb cleaner!

Sounds like it. A 31 year old fuel line could have taken a dump on you. Or a leak