How to Clean an Edelbrock Aluminum Carburetor

by John Stevens J.D.

A properly functioning fuel delivery system is vital to the efficiency of an engine. The carburetor is the heart of the fuel delivery system. Over time and with frequent operation, a carburetor becomes contaminated with debris and deposits. Properly cleaning a carburetor will restore engine power and fuel efficiency.

Step 1

Turn on the engine and let it idle.

Step 2

Locate the fuel pedal linkage on the driver's side of the carburetor. This linkage connects the gas pedal inside the vehicle to the throttle on the carburetor. As the gas pedal is depressed, the linkage pulls back on the carburetor's throttle, which allows air and fuel into the engine. The linkage is a thin rod that attaches to the side of the carburetor.

Step 3

Spray a small amount of the carburetor cleaner into the two large oval holes located at the top of the carburetor to clean the inside of the carburetor. As the cleaner enters the carburetor, the engine will slow down. To prevent the engine from stalling, activate the throttle identified in Step 2 with your hand by pulling the throttle linkage toward the back of the vehicle. Repeat this entire step at least three times.

Step 4

Turn off the engine.

Step 5

Spray the carburetor cleaner directly onto the exterior of the carburetor.

Step 6

Use a plastic wired brush to scrub the exterior of the carburetor. Use a plastic wired brush only. Steel or brass wires will scratch the delicate aluminum carburetor housing.

Step 7

Spray carburetor cleaner on the exterior of the carburetor to clean any loose deposits from the scrubbing.

Step 8

Wipe the exterior of the carburetor using a clean cloth rag. Ensure that the rag is free from dirt or other deposits that could scratch the aluminum exterior of the carburetor.