1950 Ford with hesitation and stalling when idle is low, how to fix it?

Question:

I have a 1950 Ford sedan with a stock flathead V-8. I can’t get the idle down to 475 or 500 rpms without stalling the car. Also, when I push the gas pedal down slowly the engine speed increases normally, but when I push the pedal down rapidly the engine hesitates and stalls. Can you help me with these problems?

Answer:

Though your problems may be the result of an engine vacuum leak, incorrect ignition or valve timing, or an internal engine problem, they are very likely due to a carburetor malfunction. Give the carburetor a thorough checkup, taking a particularly close look at the accelerator pump (for a leaking pump valve, leaking pump piston or restriction in the pump passages) and float level. It is also advisable to measure fuel pump pressure, since low pressure can cause the problems you are experiencing.