Yep, that's exactly what mine does, Leroy - boils for a few minutes, then the gas is all out so it takes some pumping to start it again.
I didn't realize at first that the vent isn't there (no wonder I couldn't find it). How is the problem with this the exhaust manifold/pre-heater canister?
I'm not really interested in switching to a header because (and I know this is sacrilege at this site, but...) I don't intend on keeping the straight 6 forever, just for now.
Finally, if the only problem is the solenoid, would it fix it to either A: replace the solenoid, or B: manually operate it with a switch? (providing you know when it's supposed to be off and on?) Any idea if it's just closed / not venting when the car is running and opens / vents when there is no vacuum present which makes the switch open it? or vice versa.
It's too bad you can't do anything to the car - I thought after so many years they were exempt from that? Maybe not in CA.
Anyway, if you have any thoughts let me know! Thanks for the input!