Dear Forum, here we go, my first silly question re my 400: Now that I had a chance to take a closer look at my new '78 400 Automatic, I have realised that the choke lever got dismantled (it was actually in the ashtray). Also the wire that connects the choke with the carbs got cut off... is there a special reason for that? Just this morning I saw on a picture of a 400 for sale that the lever is missing there as well... seems to be a common thing. Here you can find a pic of the other car - mine is an automatic, but same issue, no choke lever: http://www.carsablanca.de/Oldtimer-Youngtimer/639-Ferrari-400-4-8-Liter-V12-2-2-Automatik Thanks for any meaningful explanation for this phenomenon. Cheers Stefan
Yes, at least on V8 Carburettor Ferrari's, the use of the choke while starting is almost guaranteed to terminally flood the engine & foul the plugs with fuel. No doubt a V12 would be the same problem, but 50% greater. It's been disconnected to remove the temptation to use it. M
That's probably true. While I don't have any direct experience with the carburated cars, I have heard many times that the choke on a Ferrari is unnecessary in virtually all starting situations.
Most mechanics I know say that the chokes create maany more problems than benefits. That said, I do use mine in the winter. Regards, Art S.
Thanks. The learning for me is than to put it back in (I mean, it looks like it's broken when just not there...) but not to use it. Though I find it a bit odd that there is something originally in there that does harm to the engine... Stefan
If everything is setup and working right, a couple of quick pumps on the gas pedal before turning the key will get it started. No choke required.
Do not put it back on. It was removed because if it is not maintained correctly the choke will cause you problems. Frequently chokes will get stuck partially closed and you will not know it until it is too late. Regards, Art S.
Mantabee, everyone is very correct. I have removed the linkage in the engine. I left the level in the cockpit and it moves back a forth really well. No cable hang ups or anything. The starting device, as it is called by Weber, SUCKS. The explainations of the possible troubles while using it are right on track. My starting protocol is to power on, wait until the fuel pumps slowdown, 3 full throttle pumps, 1/4 throttle, and vroom vroom.
