The way is should start dead cold is;

Step on the gas to set the choke.
Cranks and start the engine, choke should be at the first step of the cam.
After about 5 to 10 seconds, tap the throttle to set the choke at the second step of the cam.

Try adjusting the tension of the choke thermostat spring first, then move on to bending the choke rod if necessary.

Once you get the choke ironed out, double check your idle speed mixture circuit;
Engine fully warmed up, run each screw in (one at a time) until the engine speed drops/stumbles slightly, then back out 1/2 turn.