How to Clean a Small Engine Carburetor

“Carburetor”, seems weird at the first look right? But it actually originated from the verb “carburet”. “Carburet” is actually a chemical terms. It is used to describe the enrichment of a gas through combining the gas with either carbon or hydrocarbons. 

We all know that we can only burn and create fire if there is air. The engine of your lawn mower can only start if the fuel can burn. Your carburetor is simply the place where the air will go into your engine, helping to provide the air for your fuel to burn in order to help your engine work. 

A lawn mower’s carburetor can be found around the top of the engine. This part of the engine is also connected to the gas tank

The air intake of your carburetor has the potential to dry out the fuel, leading to the formation of a sticky substance that clings to the carburetor walls and gradually accumulates. When an engine is not used frequently, the gasoline can also thicken, impeding the proper movement of the carburetor's small components. Moreover, the connections associated with the throttle and choke plates of the carburetor can get stuck when they become dirty. Lastly, if the carburetor emits an odor resembling turpentine or a chemical smell that differs from the usual gasoline scent, it indicates that it requires cleaning as it has surpassed the recommended

Before you actually start to clean your carburetor, just precheck if something else in your lawn mower was not the reason why the machine won’t start. Check if there is fuel on the tank first, because no machine can actually run without fuel. Don’t forget to check whether the fuel valve has been on or not. Take a look at your spark plug to make sure that it is in a good or decent position.

If you have started spraying your carburetor cleaner into the throat of the carburetor, remember to check it by attempting to start the engine. The whole point here is to make sure that cleaning will actually solve the issue.

If this makes the machine run, then the fuel system might be the problem. However, if your engines don’t start after you have attempted to start it several times, then there might be a much bigger problem. We won’t suggest how to fix it right now, but for safety, just take your mower to your engine repair shop.

Step 1: Remove the carburetor and its parts

You should start by turning off the fuel valve, which you can find on the fuel tank. After that, trace the fuel line to the carburetor to disconnect the hose. 

If the line is worn out or cracked, it's advisable to replace it. Remove the overflow hose connected to the carburetor. Loosen the screws in the clamps at the front and rear of the carburetor, allowing it to become loose enough for removal. Detach the carburetor from the throttle cable by twisting the top cap and separating it along with the attached slide.

Step 2: Start cleaning your parts

Thoroughly clean all the carburetor components using an appropriate carburetor cleaner. Pay close attention to the carburetor body, jets, and any other small parts. Use a soft brush or toothbrush to remove any dirt, debris, or gunk. Ensure that all passages and openings are clear and free from any blockages. If necessary, soak the parts in the cleaner for a more thorough cleaning. Rinse the components with clean water and allow them to dry completely.

Step 3: Reassemble all parts

Once all the parts are clean and dry, carefully reassemble the carburetor. Attach the throttle cable to the carburetor by aligning the slide and twisting the top cap back into place. Secure the carburetor by tightening the screws in the clamps at the front and rear. Reconnect the fuel line and the overflow hose. Double-check all connections to ensure they are secure and tight.

1. What does it look like when my small engine Carburetor needs to be cleaned?

When your small engine carburetor needs to be cleaned, you may notice several signs indicating the need for maintenance. These signs can include difficulty starting the engine, rough idling, decreased engine performance, stalling, or black smoke coming from the exhaust. These symptoms often indicate that the carburetor is clogged with dirt, debris, or old fuel residues, and cleaning is necessary to restore proper functioning.

2. How often should I clean my carburetor?

As a general guideline, it is recommended to clean the carburetor at least once a year or every 50-100 hours of operation. However, if you experience noticeable issues with engine performance or fuel flow, it may be necessary to clean the carburetor more frequently. Regular maintenance and inspection can help determine the appropriate cleaning schedule for your specific small engine.

3. Should I get any specific tools to clean my carburetor with?

Yes, there are some specific tools that can be helpful when cleaning a carburetor. These tools may include a carburetor cleaner solution, a small brush or toothbrush, compressed air, and a carburetor cleaning kit (which may contain specialized tools like jet cleaners or wire brushes).