Carburetors have been a staple in the world of internal combustion engines for decades, and they still play an essential role in many classic cars and hot rods. One crucial component of a carburetor is the choke, which helps control the air-fuel mixture during cold starts. While manual chokes require manual adjustment, electric chokes offer a convenient and automatic solution. If you have an Edelbrock carburetor and are looking to install or wire an electric choke, this comprehensive guide is for you.
In this article, we’ll address common questions like the purpose of the wire at the bottom of the carburetor, where to connect the electric choke wire, and how an electronic choke actually works. We’ll also dive into practical aspects such as adjusting the choke, testing the electric choke coil, and the power requirements of an electric choke. So, if you’re ready to upgrade your carburetor’s choke system, let’s get started!
How to Successfully Wire an Electric Choke on an Edelbrock Carburetor
Understanding the Electric Choke
If you’re tinkering with your trusty four-wheeled companion, you might find yourself knee-deep in carburetor wires. Fear not, my fellow grease monkeys, for wiring an electric choke on an Edelbrock carburetor is as easy as pie. But before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s quickly brush up on what an electric choke actually does.
Embrace the Simplicity
No need to break out the fancy tools or summon the genius of Einstein for this task. Wiring an electric choke is about as complicated as unraveling a phone charger cable (and we all know how much fun that is). So, grab your toolbox, bring your sense of humor, and let’s get down to business!
Step by Step, We’ll Get There
Locate the Wires
First things first, let’s get this electrical party started! With your engine cooled down, open up the hood and locate the existing wires that connect to your Edelbrock carburetor. These wires should be hanging around near the carburetor’s housing, as if they’re waiting for their moment in the spotlight.
Identify the Positive Wire
Now, here comes the detective work. Find the wire that carries a positive charge. It’s usually colored in an exciting shade like red or blue. Give it a gentle tug, and if it feels like it’s got a spring in its step, you’ve found the one. This positive wire is going to be our best friend during this wiring adventure.
Prepare for Action
With wires identified, it’s time to unleash our inner macgyver. We need to connect the positive wire to a sufficient source of electricity when the key is turned on. In simpler terms, we need to find a wire in the engine bay that carries power only when igni’tion is engaged. How fun!
Tap into Power
Look around for a wire that screams “switched ignition power source.” It’s sneaky, but not as sneaky as you’d think. Once you’ve found it, strip a small section of insulation from this newfound wire, exposing its bare metal core. Ah, vulnerability at its finest.
Connect the Dots
Now comes the moment when we put everything together like a beautifully orchestrated symphony. Take the exposed metal core of the wire you just stripped, and gracefully connect it to the previously located positive wire. Twist them together as if you were linking eternal friendship bracelets.
Secure the Connection
Our wire union needs to be bound tight, just like a romance that withstands the test of time. Grab some electrical tape or wire connectors and wrap them securely around the connection you just made. Ensure it’s snug and stable, so it doesn’t fall apart when faced with the wild vibrations of the open road.
Hurray! You’ve Done It
Beaming with a sense of pride, you can now revel in your triumph. Wiring an electric choke on an Edelbrock carburetor is no longer a daunting task. As the engine roars to life, you can bask in the glory of a job well done. So, my dear automobile enthusiasts, go forth and wire with confidence!
Final Thoughts
Remember, my friends, in the world of carburetor wiring, simplicity reigns supreme. Don’t let the labyrinth of wires intimidate you; instead, let it be an opportunity for adventure. With a dash of curiosity and a sprinkle of humor, you’ll conquer any challenge that comes your way. Now, go forth and embrace the joy of a well-wired engine!
FAQ: How To Wire An Electric Choke On An Edelbrock Carburetor
What is the wire on the bottom of a carburetor
The wire on the bottom of a carburetor is not there to confuse you or to carry out secret carburetor dances. It is actually the electric choke wire, a vital component that helps your engine start smoothly and run like a champ. So, don’t be afraid to get wired!
Where do you connect the electric choke wire
Ah, the electric choke wire, just waiting to find its perfect match! To connect it, you’ll need to find a cozy spot on your vehicle’s electrical system. You can connect it to a source that receives power when the key is turned, like the fuse box or ignition switch. Just remember, it’s all about making the right connection!
How does an electronic choke work
Picture this: your engine is about to start its day, but it needs a little nudge to get going. That’s where the electronic choke steps in, like a trusty morning alarm clock. It senses the temperature of the engine and adjusts the air-fuel mixture accordingly, making sure your engine gets the hearty breakfast it needs to start up smoothly.
Should the choke be open or closed when starting
Let’s settle this “open or closed” debate, shall we? When starting your engine, the choke should be closed, just like a door holding in the warm air on a chilly day. This helps create a richer fuel mixture, giving your engine that extra push it needs when it’s feeling a bit groggy in the morning. Once the engine warms up, the choke opens up like a happy butterfly, allowing your engine to breathe freely.
How does the electric choke work on Edelbrock carburetors
Ah, the magical world of Edelbrock carburetors! These beauties come with an electric choke that dances to its own tune. When you turn the key, power flows through the electric choke wire, waking up the little heating element inside. This element generates heat faster than a pizza oven, helping the choke open and close at just the right moments. It’s like a synchronized orchestra, but instead of music, you get an engine roaring to life!
What are the two wires on a carburetor
Well, well, well, look who’s peeking under the hood! The two wires on a carburetor are the electric choke wire and the ground wire. They work together, hand in wire, to ensure your engine starts smoothly and runs like a champion. Just like a dynamic duo, they complete each other, making sure your carburetor operates at its best.
What is the solenoid on the bottom of the carburetor
Beneath the carburetor lies the mysterious solenoid, a small but mighty device that controls the flow of fuel into the engine. Think of it as a gatekeeper, ensuring that fuel only enters when it’s needed and helping prevent any sneaky leaks. So, next time you kneel down and give it a curious look, remember that it’s protecting your engine’s gasoline kingdom!
What is the purpose of a fuel shut off solenoid
The fuel shut off solenoid is like the responsible older sibling, making sure everything’s safe and sound. Its purpose is to stop the flow of fuel to the carburetor when the engine is turned off, preventing any potential hazards like leaks or floods. So, give a nod of appreciation to this tiny yet essential component next time you turn off your engine.
How do you test an electric choke coil
Ah, the electric choke coil, a contortionist of the carburetor world! To test it, grab your ohmmeter, (your trusty companion for these moments) and check for continuity between the two terminals on the coil. If the ohmmeter reads zero or low resistance, congratulations! Your coil is ready to shine. If not, it might be time for a replacement. Remember, the show must go on!
Can you adjust an electric choke
Absolutely! Think of adjusting an electric choke as finding that sweet spot on a guitar. You wouldn’t want it too tight or too loose, right? Well, the same goes for the electric choke. You can typically adjust it by turning a plastic cover or rotating a bi-metal coil to achieve the perfect level of choke tension. Find that sweet spot, and your engine will sing you a symphony of performance!
How much power does an electric choke use
The electric choke may be small, but it sure knows how to power up! On average, it consumes around 5 to 6 amps of electricity while warming up the coil. That’s like having a mini lightbulb backstage, illuminating the path for the choke to do its job and get your engine ready to rock!
How do you test an electric scooter choke
Have a trusty electric scooter that needs some choke love? To test the electric scooter choke, start by ensuring the choke is connected properly. Then, observe its behavior when starting the scooter. Does it close when you turn the key? If so, huzzah! The choke is doing its job. If not, it might need an adjustment or replacement parts. Keep an eye on that scooter choke, and you’ll be riding smoothly in no time!
Where does power for the electric choke come from
Ah, the life force that powers the electric choke – electricity! The power for the electric choke usually comes from the vehicle’s electrical system. It could be a fuse box or even the ignition switch. When the key is turned, the power flows through the electric choke wire, giving it the rev it needs to start its engine duties. So, think of electricity as the wind beneath the choke’s wings!
How do you adjust the choke on a Carter carburetor
Adjusting the choke on a Carter carburetor is like fine-tuning an exquisite piece of machinery. Start by locating the choke housing and the fast idle screw. With the engine warm and running, slowly rotate the fast idle screw until you reach the desired engine speed. Then, move the choke plate slightly to make sure it’s fully closed. With a few gentle adjustments and a sprinkle of finesse, your Carter carburetor will be singing a beautiful tune!
How do you activate an automatic choke
Activating an automatic choke is like flipping a switch to unleash your engine’s potential. Simply turn the key in the ignition, and like magic, the automatic choke springs into action. It senses the engine temperature, adjusts the air-fuel mixture accordingly, and sets the stage for a seamless start. So, sit back, relax, and let the automatic choke do its impressive dance!
Does an electric choke need a ground wire
Ah, the ground wire, the glue that holds everything together. While an electric choke operates with electricity flowing through its wires, it does indeed need a ground wire to ensure a stable and reliable connection. Without it, the electric choke would be as lost as a hamster without its wheel. So, let that ground wire do its magic and keep everything happily connected!
What is the difference between a manual choke and an electric choke
Ah, the age-old battle of manual versus electric choke! A manual choke is like a good old-fashioned handshake – you take control. You manually adjust the choke by pulling a lever or knob, deciding when the mixture gets enriched or goes back to normal. On the other hand, an electric choke is like a helpful friend who takes care of things for you. It senses the engine temperature and adjusts the choke automatically, making life a tad easier. It’s all about personal preference and how much control you want when it comes to choking your engine!
References:
– Edelbrock: Electric Choke Installation
– Carter | Carburetor Choke Operation Explanation
