Which Cleaning Solvents Can Be Used to Clean a Carburetor?
by Susan Revermann
The carburetor on a vehicle is the area where gasoline and air mix before gas continues through the engine. The gasoline can dry out in this area and stick to the walls of the carburetor, leaving a sticky film which will build up over time. Cleaning your carburetor with certain cleaning products will help to remove buildup in this part of a vehicle. It will also help the vehicle to maintain gas mileage and engine power. When the cleaning the carburetor, make sure to remove any plastic or rubber pieces, as they may be damaged by the cleaning solvents.
Carburetor Cleaner
This cleaning solvent is specifically designed to clean the deposits and buildup on your carburetor. This cleaner will come in a gallon-sized can, and most likely will come equipped with a soaking basket. You will want to use this kind of cleaning product with larger parts of the carburetor, such as the carb body. Just pour the cleaner in the basket, submerge the part you want to clean into the basket and let it soak. The soaking basket can be reused.
Spray Carburetor Cleaner
This type of solvent is used to quickly breakup and removes grime buildup on the carburetor. You will hold the part you are working with in your hand or lay it on some newspaper, and then thoroughly spray this cleaner on the surface. You can use a shop rag or a metal brush to scrub any residue that is not dissolved by the cleaner.
Brake Cleaner
Brake cleaner is another alternative to carburetor cleaner. It is safe to use on the carburetor, and is formulated to dissolve grease and grime buildup just as carburetor cleaners are.
