Skip to content 
Learn how to clean a lawn mower carburetor without removing it, using simple steps and tools. Keep your mower at peak performance at all times.
Want to learn how to clean the carburetor by removing it? Read out article on How to Clean a Carburetor On a Lawn Mower: 2 Different Ways
Image credit: Magda Ehlers/Pexels
Can you really clean a lawn mower’s carburetor without removing it?
Yes! You can absolutely get your lawn mower’s carburetor spotless without the hassle of taking it out. This is not only possible but also a highly recommended practice for regular upkeep of your motorized system.
A dirty carburetor can choke the life out of your machine, making it run less efficiently and maybe even causing it to stop running altogether.
Tools Needed
- Carburetor Cleaner Spray
- Soft Brush
- Compressed Air
- Durable Gloves
- Goggles
- Dust Mask (optional)
- Pliers
- Camera or Smartphone
Step-by-step Guide (12)
Now, it’s time to start cleaning and I recommend wearing durable gloves, Goggles, and a dust mask to avoid getting fuel or chemicals on your skin while working.
Step 1 – Photograph the Carburetor
Each lawn mower engine is its own unique motorized system and knowing where each part goes simplifies reassembly. So take a picture of the lawn mower before you start doing anything else. Your photographs will provide an reference for the position of any cables or linkages connected to the carburetor.
Step 2 – Disconnect the Spark Plug Wire
When going into how to clean a lawn mower carburetor without removing it you have to ensure you don’t accidentally start the engine during the cleaning process, you’ll need to disconnect the spark plug wire. Locating this won’t be tricky. It’s typically a conspicuous wire attached to the spark plug in your lawn mower’s motor assembly.
Step 3 – Remove the Air Filter Cover
The air filter cover is usually found on the side of the carburetor. Once you’ve found it, you’ve got to remove it. Some covers may be held in place with screws while others might simply clip on or off.
Once you’ve removed the filter cover, it’s important to look for any signs that it is dirty or clogged. If this is indeed the case, don’t be frightened—it’s just another little spot which needs some tidying up.
Step 4 – Remove the Air Filter
In most models, removing the air filter involves unscrewing or unclipping a cover and carefully extracting the filter. Remember to be gentle!
We don’t want to damage any components in our quest for cleanliness. With this step, you’re not only preparing for cleaning but also performing an essential part of lawn mower upkeep. Having removed the air filter gives you a visual access point into your machine’s motorized system.
Step 5 – Use a Carburetor Cleaner Spray
If you’ve followed the previous steps, your spark plug should be disconnected and your air filter removed. Now it’s high time to get hands-on with the carburetor cleaning process.
At this point, you will need a carburetor cleaner spray. First off, get your carburetor cleaner spray at the ready. Aiming the nozzle towards the dirty carburetor, let loose with a liberal spray into its opening. Be careful not to drench it entirely. We are not looking to give our machine a wash per se but aren’t aiming for just a light mist either.
Step 6 – Operate the Throttle and Choke
Once you’re confident that the carburetor has been given a thorough soaking with the cleaner, it’s time to direct your attention to the throttle and choke.
Start by manually moving the throttle back and forth. This motion helps to work the cleaner into any stubborn spots that might still be hanging onto grime or build-up from fuel residues.
Now, don’t neglect your choke in this process either. Just like with the throttle, manually move it back and forth to ensure every nook and cranny gets a good wash.
Step 7 – Clean the Carburetor’s Throat and Jets
To tackle the carburetor’s throat, first locate it on your lawn mower. It’s typically situated right where the air filter was – only now you’ll be looking at a rather dirty hole that needs some TLC. Grab a can of carburetor cleaner and spray directly into this opening.
Next up are the jets – those small openings within the carburetor that allow fuel to flow through and mix with air for combustion. Directly apply generous amounts of carburetor cleaner into these tiny holes as well.
Things can get quite messy when you’re knee-deep in engine repair. Keep rags at hand for any spillage or overspray from the cleaning process.
Step 8 – Blow Out the Carburetor with Compressed Air
While the carburetor cleaner spray will have done an admirable job loosening up the dirt, there may still be stubborn particles clinging onto corners and crevices. Blowing out the carburetor with compressed air ensures that every part gets a thorough clean.
Step 9 – Reinstall the Air Filter
Once you’ve accomplished the task of getting your carburetor spotlessly clean, it’s time to turn our attention towards the air filter.
Reinstalling it should be done with utmost care. If you’ve chosen to wash it, make sure that it’s completely dried before reinstallation- we don’t want any moisture sneaking into our engine.
If on inspection during cleaning you found it torn or excessively dirty beyond repair then replacing it with a new one would be a wiser course of action.
Step 10 – Reattach the Air Filter Cover
Take that cover you’ve set aside and give it one quick check-over before putting it back on your machine. If there’s any build-up or debris clinging on to this part too, feel free to give it a good wash. Once you’re satisfied it’s as clean as can be, go ahead and reattach that protector back into place.
Step 11 – Reconnect the Spark Plug Wire
Grab the spark plug wire gently yet firmly; there are no rewards for hasty handling here. Carefully align its end with the tip of the spark plug. Go ahead and push down until you feel a small click; this ensures that a secure connection has been made.
Never touch the metallic part while reattaching it especially if your hands are wet.
Step 12 – Test the Lawn Mower
Once everything is back in its rightful place, neatly tied together, you should take a moment to admire your handiwork. However, our job isn’t quite finished.
Turn on your now spotless engine. Listen carefully for any sporadic rhythms or grating sounds that may suggest trouble under the hood. If everything is running as smooth as butter and humming well – congratulations! You’ve succeeded.
However, if something doesn’t sound quite right it may simply need more thorough washing or maybe even professional help.
And that’s how to clean a lawn mower carburetor without removing it!
Additional Tips
- Inspect Fuel Lines: Check the fuel lines for any blockages or damage while you have access to the carburetor area.
- Check for Leaks: After cleaning, inspect the carburetor and surrounding areas for any fuel leaks.
FAQ
Why is it important to disconnect the spark plug wire before cleaning the carburetor?
Disconnecting the spark plug wire is crucial for safety to prevent accidental starting of the lawn mower during the cleaning process.
Can I use any type of brush to clean the carburetor?
No, it is best to use a soft brush to avoid causing any damage to the carburetor’s delicate parts while cleaning.
How often should I clean my lawn mower’s carburetor?
It depends on usage, but generally, cleaning the carburetor once a season or whenever you notice performance issues is a good practice.
What should I do if the lawn mower doesn’t run smoothly after cleaning the carburetor?
If the lawn mower still doesn’t run smoothly, additional cleaning or adjustments may be necessary, or there may be another issue with the engine that needs attention.
