Re: float switch problem
still wondering if the bilge pump actually runs when the choke is activated, or just the light.
obviously there's a wire in there touching another wire it's not supposed to touch.
But the bilge pump shouldn't be on a switched circuit; you would expect it to be wired independently from the keyswitch.
I think you've got to pull that light out of the dash and find out where that accidental contact is happening. focus on areas where wires might be rubbing together, chafing the insulation.
the light has to get 12V from the bilge pump switch(es), right? if the pump isn't running, then you can isolate your search to the wiring between the light and the switch(es).
Did that make sense?