How to engage the "choke"

[ahspao]

I was having some starting problems with a 1988 wellcraft (4cyl with OMC cobra) and another boater asked me if I chocked it. I told him I didn't have a choke and he said they all do. So, am I missing something ? My key doesn't depress like some boats do, all I can do it push the throttle forward which I thought was correct procedure.

 

[Olds Eddie]

Re: How to engage the "choke"

The way an automatic choke works is a bi-metal spring closes the choke valve and engages the fast idle cam until the bi-metal heats up and disengages it. To set the choke open the throttle all the way and then return the lever to neutral. I usually engage the shifter lockout so I can give her some throttle without putting it in gear in case the engine tries to load up from too much choke or die from not enough engine speed. After the engine is running smoothly you can disengage the choke with a short blip of the throttle.

 

[Fishermark]

Re: How to engage the "choke"

Take off the flame arrestor and see if the choke closes when you engage the throttle. (On a cold engine - with the engine off). Chances are good that it may need cleaning if it doesn't close.

 

[Lou C]

Re: How to engage the "choke"

When you push the throttle foward all the way, the choke will close, but not set the fast idle like a car carb does. You have to advance the throttle past neutral about 1/4 or so with the shift system disengaged (pull out the lever or push a button). Once it starts, just give it enough throttle to keep it running, let it warm up, then go back to neutral (idle position).