How to Unclog a Carburetor Jet
by Chris Gilliland
A common problem that plagues carbureted motorcycles is the tendency to develop a clog during extended periods of inactivity. Clogs are caused by the slow degradation of fuel, which turns into a greenish sludge that clogs the carburetor's fuel jets and passageways. This effectively strangles the carburetor and prevents the motorcycle from being fueled properly. Cleaning a clogged carburetor can be a tedious job, especially when it comes to clearing the tiny jets. Fortunately, the job can be made easier with the right tools.
Step 1
Pour an equal amount of water and cleaning solvent into a metal pot or container. Place the container over a hot plate or similar heat source and bring the solution almost to a boil.
Step 2
Disassemble the carburetor and carefully remove the clogged jet from the carburetor.
Step 3
Remove any rubber O-rings that may be attached to the jet and submerge the jet into the warmed carburetor cleaning solution. Allow the jet to soak for 10 minutes.
Step 4
Remove the jet from the cleaning solution and rinse it thoroughly with clean water. Allow the jet to dry naturally.
Step 5
Check that the jet has been cleared by blasting compressed air through the jet. If the jet is still clogged, pass a small, stiff wire through the jet and soak the jet for another 10 minutes.
Step 6
Reinstall the jet into the carburetor and repeat as necessary.
References
- "The Professional Motorcycle Repair Program"; Professional Career Development Institute; Prentice-Hall; 1995
- Carb Cleaning 101: Motorcyclist Retro Magazine; Spring 2008
- Dan's Motorcycle: Carburetors
Things You'll Need
- Carburetor cleaning solvent
- Metal pot or container
- Hot plate or other heat source
- Air compressor
- Wire
Warnings
- Carburetor cleaning solutions can damage rubber components. Be sure that any O-rings, seals, or bushings are removed before placing the carburetor and jets into the cleaning solution.
- Jets can be damaged very easily, so take your time when removing the jets from the carburetor.
Writer Bio
An avid motorcyclist, Chris Gilliland has immersed himself into the two-wheeled world while balancing work life and raising three daughters. When he is not managing the parts department of a local, multi-line motorcycle dealership, Gilliland can often be found riding, writing or working on his motorcycle blog, Wingman's Garage.
