How to Change a Carburator

The carburetor is one of the most vital components of an engine. The carburetor mixes air with a specified amount of fuel. This air and fuel mixture is then deposited into the combustion chambers of the engine, where it is then ignited. Over time, a carburetor looses its ability to properly mix the air and the fuel, resulting in a decline in fuel mileage and power. Installing a new or rebuilt carburetor can dramatically increase the efficiency of the engine and significantly reduce emissions. Here are some helpful guidelines.

Things You'll Need

• Socket wrench Carburetor gasket Flathead screwdriver

Instructions

1. Remove the throttle cable or throttle rod from the throttle lever. The throttle lever is located on the driver's side of the carburetor. The throttle cable or rod connects the carburetor to the gas pedal. The cable or rod will be secured to the carburetor with a clip or a pin. Use a flathead screwdriver to release the clip or pin.

2. Disconnect the distributor vacuum line. The vacuum line is a small rubber hose that leads from the distributor to the base of the carburetor. The line can be disconnected by simply pulling the hose away from the carburetor.

3. Disconnect the fuel line from the carburetor. The fuel line is located on either the front of the carburetor or on the driver's side of the carburetor. The fuel line is secured by a clamp. Use a flathead screwdriver to remove the clamp by turning the clamp's screw in a counterclockwise direction. Once the clamp is loose, the fuel line can be disconnected from the carburetor by pulling the line away from the carburetor.

4. Remove the carburetor retaining nuts from the base of the carburetor using a socket wrench. The retaining nuts are located at each corner of the carburetor. Use the wrench to turn the nuts in a counterclockwise direction.

5. Pull the carburetor straight up to remove it from the engine.

6. Remove the carburetor gasket from the top of the engine. The gasket sits between the engine and the carburetor.

7. Install a new carburetor gasket over the studs where the carburetor will be installed. Take care not to apply any gasket sealer or silicon on this gasket. Carburetor gaskets are self-sealing.

8. Lower the new carburetor onto the gasket.

9. Install the four carburetor retaining nuts onto the studs located at the base of the carburetor using a socket wrench. Use a socket wrench to turn the nuts in a clockwise direction.

10. Reconnect the fuel line to the carburetor by turning the clamp at the end of the fuel line in a clockwise direction with a flathead screwdriver.

11. Reconnect the distributor vacuum line by sliding the line onto the carburetor.

12. Attach the throttle cable or throttle rod to the throttle lever. Secure the cable or rod to the carburetor with the throttle clip or pin.