Choke - Electric Assist Dodge Caravan I

DESCRIPTION

All Light Duty Emission models are equipped with an electric assist choke system (except 2.6L). This system helps to control hydrocarbon (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions and to shorten warm-up time.

Electric assist choke system consists of an electric heating element, bimetal spring, thermostatic choke coil and connecting linkage.

OPERATION

Choke thermostatic coil spring reacts to engine temperature. However, electric heating element (located next to bi-metal spring inside choke well) assists engine heat during both summer and winter operations to shorten choke "on-time".

This single-stage electric assist choke is designed to give rapid choke opening at temperatures above 60°F (16°C), and slower choke opening below this temperature.

Wire from choke heater is connected to electrical control switch. Above 60°F (16°C), control switch energizes choke heater.

Since heater control switch is mounted on engine, some cold weather operation may energize choke heater. This could occur after choke has opened without benefit of electric heat. No adverse reaction will occur.

Scheme 57

CONTROL SWITCH TEST

1. Before starting test, check test light by connecting it to battery terminals. Note light intensity.
2. Before starting engine, detach ignition harness electrical connector from heater control switch.
3. Connect test light to load (choke) terminal of control switch and to ground.
4. Start engine and allow it to reach normal operating temperature.
5. Apply 12 volts to ignition harness terminal of control switch. If test light does not light or have original intensity, replace defective control switch.

CHOKE HEATING ELEMENT TEST

1. Disconnect only "B+" wire at control switch. Connect ohmmeter lead to choke housing or choke retainer screw.
2. Touch other meter lead to bare portion of choke wire connector at switch (not "B+" terminal). Ohms resistance of 4 to 12 ohms indicates heater is electrically functional. If circuit is open or shorted, install new choke assembly.

Note. Never immerse heater element in any fluid. Electrical short to choke heater will also short circuit ignition system.