How to clean a leaf blower carburetor
A leaf blower is a great addition to your yard work or gardening arsenal, but you need to keep it in tip-top shape. The way to do that? Keep the engine well-tuned! So how do you clean a leaf blower carburetor?
It’s actually fairly straightforward but it can be a messy job if you don’t know where to start. The process is relatively simple, but you will need the right equipment to do so.
First, make sure the carburetor is off. You should also have some means of starting it. The fuel should be drained from the unit, so you may want to consider using a vacuum pump if there is too much fuel trapped in the lines.
You can find one of these pumps at many auto parts stores; just call ahead and make sure they carry one.
If you need to clean a leaf blower carburetor, use a clean towel as a protective layer inside the engine block. Ensure that the engine is cool before removing the air filter and cleaning it and make sure not to use water while cleaning the air filter.
When should I clean it?
If you are like many individuals, you may feel overwhelmed around the time your leaf blower needs to be repaired. In order to get your leaf blower back up and running as soon as possible, the following information will outline some of the key points that you need to be aware of prior to beginning the process.
In the fall, as you are about to pack up your leaf blower, check over the entire machine to ensure it is in proper working order. Once winter comes and the snow begins to fall, leave the leaf blower in a dry, warm place. This will prevent moisture from accumulating inside the carburetor and causing damage to vital parts over time.
To clean the carburetor after using your leaf blower throughout the year, blow out excess dirt and debris from all air filters with compressed air before reassembling it.
You can also clean a leaf blower using paper towels.
To do this, remove the carburetor from the leaf blower. Then take some paper towels and soak them in rubbing alcohol. Scrub both sides of the float needle with the soaked paper towels. Then wipe the carburetor all around with a dry paper towel to remove any excess alcohol. Next, put a small amount of engine oil on the needle and install it back in the carburetor.
How do I know if I’ve done a good job?
Chances are if you’re reading this, it means you’ve already taken off the carburetor and are reading up to make sure you’ve done it correctly.
The carburetor on a leaf blower is made of plastic, rubber, and copper components. Although the gas tank should always be emptied after each use, it’s possible that residue has remained in the fuel line. If you are unable to start your leaf blower, the carburetor may be clogged, and this type of problem will require minor adjustments from a technician.
