How to Rebuild a Carburetor

A male hand using a spray cleaner on a carburetor.
You don't have to be a skilled mechanic to rebuild your carburetor. BanksPhotos / Getty Images

You don't have to be an experienced mechanic to rebuild a carburetor. If your car is slow to start, is hesitating or stalling or if the engine is flooding or eating too much gas, it may be time to get your hands dirty and rebuild your car's carburetor [source: AA1car]. Follow the easy steps below to save a lot of money and get your car working again.

What you'll need:

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  • Rebuild carburetor kit
  • Wrench set
  • Screwdriver
  • Safety goggles
  • Gloves
  • Carburetor cleaner
  • Water
  • Towels

Here's what to do:

  1. Remove the carburetor and place it on your worktable. Make sure your work room is properly ventilated; carburetors may let off fumes that leave you dizzy or worse.
  2. Read the instructions outlined in your rebuild carburetor kit. Kits can be bought online or at auto parts stores. There are many different types of carburetors for various vehicles. Make sure to buy the kit that's right for your car's carburetor.
  3. Unhook the accelerator pump and take the cover off. Disassemble the carburetor by taking apart the choke and removing all the hoses and screws [source: Sieman]. Pay close attention when disassembling the carburetor so you can put everything back together again when you're done.
  4. Wipe down all the carburetor's parts with carburetor cleaner. Remember to wear your safety goggles and gloves to avoid injury.
  5. Rinse all the parts in water and allow them to dry thoroughly. Wet parts will prevent the carburetor from running properly, so make sure that all the parts are completely dry before proceeding to the next step.
  6. Reassemble the carburetor using the instructions provided in the kit. Hook the pump back to the body of the carburetor and connect all of the hoses and choke cables. Use the wrench and screwdrivers, but don't to apply excessive force [source: Sieman].
  7. Replace the carburetor and start the engine.

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How to Fix a Carburetor FAQ

How much does it cost to fix a carburetor?
It will cost around $200 to $300 to have a professional clean your carburetor, according to Angie's List.
What are the symptoms of a bad carburetor?
If your car is slow to start, is hesitating or stalling or if the engine is flooding or eating too much gas, it may be time to get your hands dirty and rebuild your car's carburetor.
How much does a carburetor replacement cost?
Angie's List says replacing a carburetor would cost between $500 and $800.
What do you need to fix a carburetor?
Rebuild carburetor kit, wrench set, screwdriver, safety goggles, gloves, carburetor cleaner, water and towels.
How do you fix a carburetor?
Remove the carburetor and place it on your worktable. Read the instructions outlined in your rebuild carburetor kit. Kits can be bought online or at auto parts stores.

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