Easy Guide: Edelbrock Electric Choke Installation

how to hook up edelbrock electric choke

Edelbrock offers a range of carburettors with manual chokes, which can be converted to electric chokes using an electric choke kit. The Edelbrock Electric Choke Kit #1478 is designed to convert manual choke Edelbrock Performer series carburettors to electric choke. This kit includes all the necessary parts to convert #1404, #1405, #1407 and #1412 carbs to electric choke. The choke should only be used when starting the engine when it is cold. The Edelbrock procedure can be used to set the idle mixture and idle speed.

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Where to find a 12v source

To hook up an Edelbrock electric choke, you need to find a 12V source that is controlled by the ignition switch in the run position. Here are some options for where to find a suitable 12V source:

Firstly, check if your car originally came with an anti-dieseling solenoid. If it did, there should be a heavy 12V "key on" wire running to it, which you can use as a power source for the electric choke. This wire can be found near the carburetor.

Another option is to use the coil, although some people recommend staying away from this circuit. If you do decide to use the coil, make sure to use the input side of the ballast resistor, which can be identified with a piggyback connector and two blue wires.

If you have replaced the original resistor wire to the coil with an electronic ignition, this can be an easy place to tap into for power. The wire is usually about a foot long and can be found behind the ignition.

Additionally, you can consider adding an auxiliary 3-5 circuit fuse block that is powered through a relay. The primary side of the relay would be connected to the ignition switch, and the secondary side would power the auxiliary fuse box directly from the battery. This method allows you to add power to your stock harness without overloading or splicing into it.

Finally, some people have reported success using the stator post on the alternator as a 12V source for the Edelbrock electric choke thermostat. However, keep in mind that the voltage may be less than 12V, and it will only work when the engine is running.

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How to wire an electric choke

To wire an electric choke, it is important to first understand the mechanics of the choke coil and how it operates in relation to the engine. The choke coil must remain "hot" while the engine is running because the choke closes when "cold". Applying voltage to the coil warms it up, which then opens the choke as the engine warms up.

The electric choke has two wiring connections, one positive and one negative. The negative lead should be connected to any good engine ground. The positive lead should be connected to any circuit that is "hot" only when the engine is running. It is important to note that the positive lead should not be connected to the distributor side of the coil. The positive lead should be used in conjunction with a 10-amp fuse.

There are a few different methods for wiring an electric choke, depending on the specific setup and preferences. One common method is to connect the choke to the input side of the ballast resistor using a piggyback connector. The ballast resistor wires can be tested using a test light to identify the 12-volt input side. Another method is to wire the choke to the IGN terminal on the fuse box, either directly or through an auxiliary fuse. Alternatively, the choke can be wired to the wiper motor or the oil pressure switch to ensure that it only receives power when the engine is running.

For an Edelbrock performer 750, it is recommended to use an ignition switch-activated 12-volt constant location. This can be achieved by connecting to the pink (ignition on) bus in the fuse box or through other methods mentioned above. It is important to follow the specific instructions and recommendations for your particular setup to ensure safe and proper operation.

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How to adjust the idle mixture

To adjust the idle mixture on an Edelbrock electric choke, you must first locate the idle mixture screws on the carburetor. These are typically found on the underside of the carburetor's fuel bowl, near its base.

With a warm engine, use a screwdriver to adjust the idle mixture screws. Turning the screws clockwise will restrict the amount of air reaching the engine, resulting in a richer fuel mixture. This can improve engine efficiency and lower emissions, especially during cold starts. Rotating the screws counterclockwise will allow more air into the engine, creating a leaner fuel mixture and improving fuel efficiency and emissions once the engine is heated.

It is important to note that a too-tight choke can cause the engine to run too rich, leading to poor fuel economy, black smoke from the exhaust, reduced engine power, and increased carbon monoxide emissions. Conversely, a too-loose choke can cause the engine to run too lean, resulting in poor performance, engine overheating, and potential engine damage.

After adjusting the choke, tighten the screws and test drive the vehicle. If the car runs correctly and starts readily, no further modifications are required. However, if you suspect carburetor problems, such as rough idling or erratic idle speed, you should consult a professional mechanic for a thorough inspection.

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The best power source

It is important to note that the choke should only be used when starting the engine when it is cold. One user recommends hardwiring the choke with a fuse directly to the battery. They start the engine and, after it warms up, they plug in the fuse and let the choke heat up and open.

Another user recommends using the accessory feed from the fuse block and running a separate wire. This can be done by going to the input side of the ballast resistor with a piggyback connector, which usually has two blue wires. You can then test each of the ballast resistor wires to find the input side, which will be 12V.

It is worth noting that some people have concerns about hooking anything to the main ballast circuit that supplies voltage to the coil or aftermarket ignition box. Edelbrock also reportedly advises against using the coil, battery, alternator, or ballast resistor as a power source, instead recommending a fuse.

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Using a ballast resistor

The Edelbrock electric choke can be hooked up using a ballast resistor. This is a good place to pick up 12V for the choke. The electric choke uses electricity to heat the choke spring and gradually open the choke.

To hook up the choke, you can use a piggyback connector to connect to the input side of the ballast resistor. This is usually the side with two blue wires. First, remove the wires from both sides of the ballast resistor, then turn the key to the run position. Next, take a test light and clamp one end to the ground or battery negative. Use the other end to test each of the ballast resistor wires – the side that lights up is the input side with 12V.

It is important to note that hooking the electric choke to the ballast resistor circuit could overload it. Therefore, it is recommended to run a new lead from a terminal on the fuse block that is powered by the ignition switch. Additionally, it is advised to install an inline fuse in case the electric choke ever shorts out.

Some users have reported success with this method, while others suggest finding another fused circuit or creating one as a cleaner alternative. It is also worth noting that the electric choke element is always hot and never shuts off.

Frequently asked questions

You should use a 12V source that is controlled by the ignition switch in the run position.

You can find a 12V source by using the stator post on the alternator. Alternatively, you can use the original resistor wire to the coil if you have added electronic ignition.

First, set the highest vacuum at an idle, with the idle speed where you want it. Then, go back and forth between the idle mixture screws and idle speed repeatedly until they are correctly set. Finally, you can adjust the choke settings.

If your idle mixture is too rich, it will produce a lot of carbon monoxide (CO). You can also use a mirror and a flashlight to look down the carb when the engine is idling. If you see any raw fuel dribbling on either side, the air venturi may be blocked, making the mixture too rich.

If your idle speed is too high, you can try setting a faster idle. However, the idle speed should not be higher than 900 rpm in Park unless you have a very aggressive cam.

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