The Rochester Dualjet is a 2-barrel carburetor used in various General Motors vehicles from the 1960s through the 1980s. It is similar to the Rochester 2-barrel carburetor but features an additional "jet" or secondary barrel for improved performance. The choke system is an essential component of the Rochester Dualjet carburetor, responsible for regulating the air-fuel mixture when the engine is cold.
When the engine is cold, the choke thermostat contracts, pulling the choke plate closed. The choke pull-off slightly opens the choke plate after the engine starts to prevent it from running too rich. As the engine warms up, the choke thermostat expands, progressively opening the choke plate and allowing more air to enter the carburetor. This results in a leaner air-fuel mixture, which is more appropriate for a warm engine. At the same time, the fast idle cam lowers the idle speed to the normal operating range.
To maintain optimal performance and fuel efficiency, it's essential to regularly inspect and service the choke system on your Rochester Dualjet 2-barrel carburetor. Here are some common issues and their solutions:
Hard starting or poor idling when cold: This may be caused by a malfunctioning choke plate that isn't closing properly. Inspect the choke plate for debris or damage and ensure it moves freely. Clean and lubricate the choke plate shaft and linkage as necessary.
Stalling or hesitation during warm-up: This could be due to a faulty choke pull-off that isn't opening the choke plate slightly after the engine starts. Inspect the vacuum hose for cracks, leaks, or blockages, and test the choke pull-off diaphragm for proper operation.
High idle speed when warm: This might be caused by the fast idle cam not disengaging properly as the engine warms up. Inspect the fast idle cam and linkage for wear or damage, and clean or replace as needed.
Choke not opening fully when warm: Check the choke thermostat for proper operation. If the thermostat is damaged or not expanding as it should, replace it.
Always consult your vehicle's service manual for specific information related to your make and model, as procedures and adjustments may vary. By maintaining the choke system on your Rochester Dualjet 2-barrel carburetor, you can help ensure optimal performance and fuel efficiency for your vehicle.
The secondary choke pull-off (also known as a vacuum break) is responsible for opening the secondary choke plate after the engine has started and is warming up. This is important because it helps prevent the engine from running too rich when cold, which can lead to stalling, hesitation, and poor fuel economy.
The secondary choke pull-off is a vacuum-operated diaphragm device that is connected to the secondary choke plate via a linkage. When the engine is started, vacuum is applied to the diaphragm, causing it to retract and pull the secondary choke plate open slightly. As the engine warms up and vacuum increases, the diaphragm retracts further, progressively opening the secondary choke plate.
If the secondary choke pull-off is not functioning correctly, it can cause issues with the carburetor's performance, such as hesitation during acceleration or stalling when cold. To diagnose and fix issues with the secondary choke pull-off, follow these steps: