Wondering if anyone has experimented with reduced opening/drilled shim sizes? Currently running truck-type gasket (reduced port size) and HAVE noticed range of choke spring reduced, but auto choke still works OK. How small can the opening be (for reduced charge temp.) and still have acceptable choke functioning? If spring range is too limited, achieving full open position when hot may not allow for enough cold choking to be useful?

6 VOLTS/POS. GRD. NW INDIANA

I should point out this (obviously) only applies to OEM manifolds with riser-heat operated chokes.

6 VOLTS/POS. GRD. NW INDIANA

Use a '61 or later rh exhaust manifold, it has a provision for choke heat.

John - "The Hoosier Hurricane"

That would be my only route if ever get the new aluminum manifold (better carb & dist included). But for now, just enough riser heat to operate the teapot choke will do. I'll likely try half the truck gasket opening size.

6 VOLTS/POS. GRD. NW INDIANA

Although I’ve restricted the heat riser passages in the past to simply allow the carburetor to run cooler, I’ve not researched just how much those passages can be restricted before the automatic choke capability becomes non-functional.  In many instances, I simply block off the heat passages completely at the intake and resort to other choke devices or controls which solves a myriad of other related problems in my part of the country.

 

How about an electric choke?  John’s suggestion with the exhaust manifold is a good one as I’ve done that on a ’56 Ford with the Holley Teapot carb.  A mechanical choke is also an option if you don’t mind running the cable.  I run the mechanical choke on my ’55 and does give me the option of having a ‘fast idle’ anytime I need it.  Fast idle capability comes in handy when jump starting scrubs.

Lorena, Texas (South of Waco)

yeah a 55 with a 6 volt battery

A 12 volt electric choke coil actually works on a 6 volt application.  Just a tad slower which as most electric chokes go, is a good thing.

 

And my '55 is converted over to 12 volt using an alternator.

Lorena, Texas (South of Waco)

Just a jesting you Ted on boosting a scrub with 6 volt battery.

marv

Concerned about power drain (?). 6V generator system already stressed by OD solenoid & frequent night driving (high beam, mostly).

6 VOLTS/POS. GRD. NW INDIANA

Theres an aftermarket kit shows up on Ebay quite often.Puts the hot air tube into the exhaust manifold.Ford actually went  to that as a service replacement for the tubes in the intake manifold.Had one on my car then I went to the newer carb with electric choke.