Cleaning the carburetor is an often-forgotten task. However, a properly maintained carburetor increases the longevity of your engine. Read on for answers to all your carburetor cleaning questions, from basic steps, helpful facts, and tips on the type of carburetor cleaner to use.
Why is it important to clean your carburetor?
Because engines don’t extract all the energy from the fuel we use, carbon buildup can cause corrosion in your engine. Carb cleaner helps prevent leftover fuel deposits from eating away at your machine. If left for years without cleaning, damage occurs.
Important steps to remember when cleaning a carburetor.
· Follow the car manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance to safely clean your carburetor and avoid unnecessary damage to your car.
· Ensure the carburetor is cool enough to handle before cleaning. It should preferably be cool to the touch.
· Use only a diluted cleaner. The ratio is one part cleaner to three parts water.
· Shut off the fuel supply and disconnect the spark plug wire.
· Clean out the air filter.
· Use carburetor brushes to scrub the metal components, and a nylon brush to clean the plastic pieces.
· Make sure the carburetor is completely dry before putting it back in.
Do I need to clean the choke as well?
Yes. Even though the choke only gets used when the engine is cold, having a clean choke will help your clean carburetor run better.
What type of carburetor cleaner should I use?
For an older engine, you can use fuel system cleaner, which you can also use on a newer car model. What you should use for a carburetor is a carburetor and choke cleaner.
