Electromechanical choke system for an internal combustion engine

An engine starting system for an internal combustion engine. The starting system includes a starter switch electrically connected between a battery and a starter motor for the engine, and a choke valve disposed in an air intake of an air/fuel-mixing device for the engine. The choke valve moves in response to a solenoid actuator. The solenoid actuator is electrically connected to the starter motor and a temperature switch. When starting the engine below a threshold temperature, the starter switch and temperature switch close such that the battery powers the starter motor and solenoid actuator. The energized solenoid actuator moves the choke valve to a closed position to enrich the air/fuel mixture. Above a certain threshold temperature, the temperature switch interrupts the power to the solenoid actuator.