Cleaning a small engine carburetor can greatly improve its performance and extend its lifespan. To effectively clean a carburetor, it is important to soak and scrub all its components. Here’s a step-by-step guide on the best way to clean a small engine carburetor.
1. Gather the necessary tools and materials: You will need a large container, Simple Green Pro HD solution (or a similar degreaser), a brass brush, a stiff nylon brush, safety goggles, and gloves.
2. Safety first: Before starting the cleaning process, ensure that the engine is turned off and cool. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from any debris or chemicals.
3. Disassemble the carburetor: Carefully remove the carburetor from the engine, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Take note of the order in which the components are assembled for easier reassembly later.
4. Soak the components: Fill a large container with the Simple Green Pro HD solution and submerge the carburetor float and other components. Ensure that all parts are fully submerged. Let them soak for at least 10 minutes to loosen any dirt, grime, or deposits.
5. Scrub the metal components: After soaking, use a brass brush to gently scrub all metal components, including the carburetor body, jets, and screws. Pay special attention to any areas with visible dirt or buildup. The brass brush is effective in removing debris without causing damage to the metal surfaces.
6. Scrub the plastic components: Use a stiff nylon brush to scrub plastic pieces such as the float bowl and any other plastic parts. Be gentle to avoid damaging the plastic. The nylon brush will help remove any dirt or residue from these components.
7. Clean the tiny vents: Use a small wire or a thin needle to clean the tiny vents and passages in the carburetor body and jets. These vents are crucial for proper fuel flow, so ensuring they are clear and unobstructed is essential.
8. Rinse and dry: Once all the components have been thoroughly scrubbed, rinse them with clean water to remove any remaining degreaser. Ensure that all traces of the cleaning solution are removed. After rinsing, allow the components to air dry completely before reassembling the carburetor.
9. Reassemble and reinstall: Carefully reassemble the carburetor, following the reverse order of disassembly. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions if needed. Once reassembled, reinstall the carburetor onto the engine.
10. Test and adjust: Start the engine and observe its performance. If necessary, make any adjustments to the carburetor settings to achieve optimal performance. Consult the engine’s manual or seek professional advice if you are unsure about making adjustments.
Regularly cleaning your small engine carburetor, at least once a year or more frequently if needed, can help prevent performance issues and prolong the life of your engine. By following these steps and using the appropriate tools and cleaning solution, you can effectively clean your carburetor and maintain the engine’s efficiency.
