choke wiring again

Sounds like you have a good handle on the issues now.

I agree with 273 on the fuse. If you really want to know the current draw of the choke, measure the resistance from its power lead to gnd (or return lead if it has one). I = (12 V)/R, where I <> amps and R <> ohms. As the choke heater heats up, the resistance will increase and the current decrease. A good rule is to get a fuse rated ~3x the normal current.

Is this an aftermarket choke, like an Edelbrock carb, or the late 70's - 80's Mopar electric choke? I put the later (~82 Diplomat) on my 65 small block w/ the thermal sensor that comes with it. I didn't use a fuse, but since that was suggested ...