Clean a Small Gas Engine

Cleaning an engine could be a real aggravating and time consuming task, especially if you are not a mechanic. But with these simple steps, this article will thoroughly explain how to clean a small gas engine (e.g., for your lawnmower or snowblower) for it to be running at its peak. Be sure to remove the spark plug before doing any of the work.

Steps

  1. Remove the spark plug by using a socket. It's recommended to use a spark plug tester.
  2. Remove the air filter cover on the engine. This is usually held by two screws. Take the filter out and you should see about four screws that connect the air filter to the carburetor, remove those.
  3. Take a picture of the throttle linkage. It can be very frustrating if you forget how to reassemble it. Remove all of your linkage by removing all of the cables attached to the carburetor. Remove your fuel line connected to the carburetor.
  4. Remove the gas tank under the carburetor. Unscrew the screw from the gas tank to the engine (usually held by a bracket), then remove the screws that attach the gas tank to the carburetor.
  5. Clean the gas tank. Make sure that the part where the carburetor was connected is free of any grime, also inspecting the gas tank and freeing it of any dirt by using air.
  6. Remove the carburetor by removing the two bolts (usually one on top and one at the bottom) that attach the carburetor to the engine. Now that you have the carburetor out and in good sight, use a paper clip to clean the jets (on the bottom of the carburetor), then spray the cleaner into the carburetor and let it sit for 20 minutes.
  7. Remove the side of the engine that the throttle was connected to by usually unbolting three bolts.
  8. Inspect the inside of the engine. Find a disc that should have been exactly where the pull start is (when you remove the pull start it should be attached to the engine), find the magnetic side of that disc and make sure that it is clean and you can see the magnet.
  9. Bolt the cover back onto the engine.
  10. Attach the gas tank on ONLY.
  11. Maneuver the carburetor to reconnect all of the throttle linkage. Make sure that all of the throttle linkage is connected before bolting the carburetor.
  12. Reattach the air filter mount (not the cover) with the four screws.
  13. Inspect the air filter and decide if you need a new air filter (if the air filter is wet or moist, remove the air filter and buy a new one. Clean out the air filter mount and cover with air freeing any loose dirt. Attach the air filter and cover.
  14. Test out the engine (it is normal for you to have to pull a couple of extra times since the gas needs to get to the carburetor).

Tips

  • Use a magnetic screw/nail holder so you do not loose any pieces
  • Buy carburetor cleaner
  • It's recommended to use SEAFOAM Motor Cleaner, as this maintains your engine and is also a good starting fluid.

Warnings

  • Only complete this if you have sufficient knowledge of the subject.
  • This is only for horizontal shaft engines.

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