I have an old truck with an edelbrock carb and you touch the key and it starts right up. If you touch the gas before turning the key your screwed.

II have also had cars that need the pedal depressed one time before you hit the key. Just figure out the sequence that works best and don't deviate from it.

Also starters can't take a lot of time cranking over as it ruins them that much faster. If it doesn't start in a few seconds give the starter a break.