does an 81 CJ5 w/a 258 have a choke?

[chattmedic]

Just purchased my first CJ!! Previously owned a 93 Wrangler. Just wondering, to the right of the lighter, just below the speedometer, fuel gage, etc. on the dash is a pull knob, not heater related, wipers or lights. Is this a choke possibly, and how can I tell for sure? The Jeep starts and runs great, I have been starting the Jeep with the knob pushed in, this morning it was cold for the first time, and it started a little rough, wondering if this could be corrected by possibly applying what I think may be the choke. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[Ray H]

Originally Posted by chattmedic

Just purchased my first CJ!! Previously owned a 93 Wrangler. Just wondering, to the right of the lighter, just below the speedometer, fuel gage, etc. on the dash is a pull knob, not heater related, wipers or lights. Is this a choke possibly, and how can I tell for sure? The Jeep starts and runs great, I have been starting the Jeep with the knob pushed in, this morning it was cold for the first time, and it started a little rough, wondering if this could be corrected by possibly applying what I think may be the choke. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Look for a cable running from the knob to the carb. If its a choke, its probably not factory, someone probably put it there so it would start better when cold. Just trace the cable.

[chattmedic]

Thanks for the advice, if it were a choke, would I pull the knob out to start, and after it ran for a while, push it back in? Silly question I know, but Im an amatuer trying to learn. I super apprecite your help. Cheers

[Ray H]

Originally Posted by chattmedic

Thanks for the advice, if it were a choke, would I pull the knob out to start, and after it ran for a while, push it back in? Silly question I know, but Im an amatuer trying to learn. I super apprecite your help. Cheers

I guess whoever installed it could do it the way they want but the couple Ive had have been pull for choke and push for no choke.

[chattmedic]

Thanks man, I tried the choke this morning, pulled out by the way, and there was a noticeable difference in the way it started and idled. Thanks again for your help.

[MagicRat]

Uh, your Jeep should have an automatic (thermal) choke.

Likely you have an automatic choke because your jeep would be VERY difficult to start even in warm weather without using a choke.

You need to fully depress the gas pedal before cranking to set the choke.

You would be surprised how many people who only have driven EFI cars cannot get a choke car started because they fail to do so.

If there is a manual choke knob, it is not factory and has been cobbled together by someone.

Also, there is a factory vent knob on the dash, in my '81 CJ, in that general location. Are you sure you are not pulling the vent knob?