Adjusting a small engine carburetor is a simple job that involves adjustments to its idle speed and mixture settings. In addition, troubleshooting fuel supply problems before making adjustments to the carburetor rules out poor performance because of issues with the fuel supply.Continue Reading
Small engines depend heavily on a clean and well-adjusted carburetor for trouble-free performance. Ensuring smooth running involves troubleshooting fuel supply problems and then making adjustments to the carburetor settings.
Step 1: Troubleshoot fuel supply problems
Small engines have to deal with debris and grass, which can easily clog fuel passages and negatively affect performance. Inspecting the lines and cleaning any blockages ensures an uninterrupted supply to the carburetor.
Step 2: Adjust carburetor idle speed
Some carburetors allow adjustments to the air-fuel mixture and idle speed, indicated by the presence of an idle speed screw and an idle mixture screw.
Step 3: High speed mixture adjustments
A few early carburetors may be equipped with a high speed mixture screw that controls the flow of air under load. Follow the same steps as those for the idle settings. However, the engine should be at operating temperature and the screw should be turned counterclockwise by 1-1/4 to 1-1/2 turns.Learn more about Car Parts & Maintenance