Beatrice Lang
An electric choke is a useful feature on an ATV, especially in colder climates, as it helps to start a cold engine by creating a richer fuel-to-air ratio. To hook up an electric choke, you need to connect it to a 12-volt power source. The correct place to do this is at the back of the alternator, where there is a post marked S or STA, which is the stator connection. This ensures that the choke only receives power when the engine is running. Another option is to use a three-prong oil pressure sending unit, which can be purchased from automotive stores, and connect it to the starter solenoid. This method also ensures that the choke doesn't open when you leave the key in the ignition.
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What You'll Learn
Understanding how an ATV choke works
An ATV choke is a cold-starting function that helps start and keep a cold engine running. It works by blocking some of the air from entering the carburetor and mixing with the fuel. This blockage results in a richer air-fuel mixture, with more fuel than usual, which is necessary for cold engines to start and continue running. Once the engine warms up, the choke should be turned off, and the engine will then be able to run without the extra fuel.
There are four main types of ATV chokes: plunger style, lever style, handle style, and switch style. The lever-type choke, for example, should be in the down position during normal operation. To start a cold engine with a switch-type choke, pull up on the switch so that it sticks out at a 90-degree angle from its starting position. Once the engine is warm, return the switch to its original position.
It is important to note that you should not ride or rev your ATV while the choke is on. If the choke remains on, the engine will be too rich, meaning there is too much gas. This can lead to excess gas and residue ending up on the plug, making it harder for the plug to spark and resulting in worse performance.
The carburetor, where the choke is located, can sometimes get plugged up with debris or old gas. This may require replacement of the choke and choke cable.
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Locating the correct place to hook up the choke wire
Firstly, it is important to understand that the choke wire should be connected to a power source that provides the required 12 volts of electricity. This is because electric chokes require a substantial amount of power to operate effectively.
Now, let's discuss the specific locations where you can hook up the choke wire. One recommended location is the back of the alternator. Look for a post marked with either an "S" or "STA", which stands for stator connection. This is an ideal connection point because it only produces electricity when the engine is running, ensuring the choke is powered appropriately.
Another option is to connect to the ignition side of the ballast resistor. This method ensures that the choke receives full voltage when starting. However, be cautious when attempting this connection, as a poor connection can lead to engine shutdown.
If you're uncomfortable with this method, consider cutting the wire and installing a relay. Trigger the relay from the bulkhead end, and connect the engine end to the load side of the relay contacts. This provides a more indirect connection, reducing the risk of engine issues.
Lastly, safety should be a priority. When connecting the choke wire, ensure that you fuse the line to prevent overheating, short circuits, and potential electrical fires.
By carefully following these instructions and considering the available power sources and connection points, you can confidently locate the correct place to hook up the choke wire for your ATV's electric choke.
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Ensuring the choke has the required 12 volts of power
Firstly, it is important to understand that the choke heater is designed to be powered by 12 volts. This voltage requirement is necessary to warm up the choke and ensure it functions effectively.
When sourcing the power, it is recommended to connect the choke to the stator output of the alternator. This setup ensures that the choke only receives voltage when the engine is running, preventing unnecessary power consumption when the engine is off. The stator output provides the necessary 12 volts and helps the choke operate as intended.
In some cases, you might consider powering the choke directly from the battery. While this can work, it is important to ensure that the choke is connected to a switched 12V source. This setup ensures that the choke only receives power when the ignition is on, preventing it from staying constantly open.
Additionally, it is worth noting that the voltage output can vary, and it may not always reach the full 12 volts. Aftermarket chokes typically require a full 12 volts, while factory chokes may operate with slightly less voltage. However, providing a full 12 volts to a factory choke should not cause any issues and will likely result in quicker warming.
To verify that the choke is receiving the correct voltage, conduct voltage tests with a multimeter. Measure the voltage at different points, such as with the key off, in the ON position, and while running, to ensure that the choke is receiving the required 12 volts at the appropriate times.
Lastly, be cautious when considering alternative power sources, such as connecting the choke to the coil or ignition. Some sources suggest that this could lead to improper choke function, poor gas mileage, and potential misfires. The recommended approach is to follow the manufacturer's instructions and connect the choke to the stator output of the alternator for reliable and efficient performance.
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Adjusting the choke to stay fully open
For a plunger-type choke, you must pull the choke all the way out to open it when starting a cold engine. Once the engine is warm, push the plunger back to its original position. If the plunger does not stay out, you can adjust the choke cable by sliding up a rubber cover at its base to reveal a plastic nut. Tightening this nut will increase the friction that keeps the choke out.
For a lever-type choke, lift the lever to turn the choke on when starting a cold engine. Once the engine is warm, return the lever to its original down position.
For a handle-type choke, usually found on the left side of the handlebars, push the handle lever to the right to turn the choke on. Once the engine is warm, return the handle lever to its original position on the left.
For a switch-type choke, found on the side of the machine or near the fuel shut-off valve, pull the switch up to open the choke when starting a cold engine. Once the engine is warm, return the switch to its original flat position.
It is important to note that you should not ride or rev your ATV while the choke is on as it could stall the engine. The choke is only necessary when starting a cold engine to create a richer fuel-to-air ratio and help the engine stay running. Once the engine is warm, it will not need the extra fuel, and you can turn the choke off.
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Troubleshooting common ATV choke problems
An ATV choke works by blocking some of the air from entering the carburettor and mixing with the fuel. When the choke is on, the air/fuel mixture entering the engine is richer (more fuel than usual), which helps to start and keep a cold engine running. Once the engine warms up, you can turn the choke off.
A common issue with ATVs is that they die when the choke is turned off. This is usually because the engine is lacking fuel or air, and the choke is needed to create a richer mixture. If this is the case, you should check the fuel system, air intake, or spark.
- Check the fuel filter for any clogs or blockages and replace it if necessary.
- Inspect the fuel line for any kinks or clogs and clear or replace it if needed.
- Ensure the fuel pump is functioning properly; if not, consult a professional or replace it.
- Check the air filter for any dirt or dust build-up and clean or replace it if required.
- Clear any blockages in the air intake.
- Check the spark plug and clean or replace it if necessary.
If the above solutions do not work, the problem may be caused by a dirty pilot jet in the carburettor. Removing and cleaning the carburettor will likely fix the issue. The carburettor is prone to getting clogged from debris in the gas or old, stale fuel that leaves behind a gummy residue. To prevent this, ensure you do not leave the carburettor full of fuel if the motor won't be running for a while. You can set the petcock to OFF and run the motor to use all the fuel, or drain the carburettor by removing the drain screw from the bottom of the carb's float bowl.
If you suspect a leak is causing the issue, start the motor and spray carb cleaner around the air intake boot, the connection areas of the boot to the carb and engine, and any vacuum lines if your carb has them. The leak can be easily pinpointed as the carb cleaner will be drawn in at that point. Tightening a clamp may fix the leak, but if the problem persists, you may need to replace the part.
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Frequently asked questions
The correct place to hook up the choke wire is the back of the alternator. There is a post marked "S" or "STA", which is the stator connection.
A 12-volt source is required for an electric choke.
If you don't hook up the electric choke, you may need to adjust it so that it never comes on. However, this may cause issues when starting your ATV in cold weather.
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