Automatic chokes

[Bill Braun]

My 67 BB is missing the automatic choke, and I'd like to install one (the kind consisting of a bimetal coil inside a metal housing that is screwed into the intake manifold adjacent to the carb's throttle plate). I found a supplier, but before ordering it, I'd like to know if there are different types, or if the linkage to the choke butterfly differs in configuration. Ostensibly, the engine is a 390HP and I believe the carb is a Holley 4160 rather than the 4150. I suspect that the chokes are probably all the same and the variations are more likely to be in the carb linkage, but what the h--l do I know.


Bill Braun #33186

[Bill Braun]

Addendum to Automatic chokes

I just got back from the garage, and as I suspected, the carb linkage is for a manual choke. The former owner just placed a stiff wire in the linkage, holding the choke butterfly open. I am no longer sure that the remote choke (mounted on the intake manifold) is the proper solution, as the manual choke linkage can be easily removed and a 'proper' automatic choke installed. Can anyone please confirm what automatic choke is appropriate for the '67 390 HP engine? Sorry for the neophyte question, but I'd like to be sure I am ordering the proper part. Many thanks in advance, Bill Braun #33186

[Carl R.]

All Choked Up...

Hi Mr. Braun!


Your 1967 427/390 engine originally was equippped with a "divorced" type choke consisting of a bimetallic mounted in a small recess in the intkae manifold, a small cad-plated cover, and a rod that connects to a bellcrank on the right side of the carbureor. All of these pieces are readily available (don't forget the small screw also) for about $20. More important question is if these can be mounted on your current carburetor (Holleys can have different main body configurations) and intake manifold. Memory fails me (can't remember the proper intake #) but I believe the 1967 427/390 cars used a 4160-type (think the 4150 was 1966) stamped #3811 on the front surface of the air horn. If so, all of these pieces should retrofit without difficulty. If the previous owner has changed the carburetor, post the list # & perhaps we can figure this out. New #3811 carburetors are still available (about $550) service-dated if required.


Carl

[Joe L.]

Re: Automatic chokes

Bill----


You require the following parts:


choke thermostat------ GM #3887148 (still available)


choke thermostat cover----GM #3864866 (still available)


choke rod-----GM #3906641 (discontinued, but available in reproduction)


one #10-24 x 1/4" pan head, phillips screw to retain choke thermostat to manifold.

[Bill Braun]

Re: Automatic chokes

Thanks for your responses. I will take up this thread again after I shake this damn flu. Jeez, even my hair hurts. Bill