If you want your snow blower to work efficiently and last as long as possible, like every machine, it needs regular cleaning.
One of the most important components to keep clean is the carburetor. A clean carburetor will minimize starting problems and fuel consumption, improve idling, and prevent flooding—among other problems. After a heavy snowfall is not the time you want to find out that your snow blower is not up to the task of efficient snow removal.
Consult the owner’s manual before attempting to clean your blower’s carburetor—or any other component. If you did not receive an operator’s manual when you purchased your snow blower, it will likely be available online.
First, assemble the items you’ll need to clean the carburetor: sandpaper, a socket wrench, a cloth, copper wire, a wire brush, a can of compressed air, and liquid carburetor cleaner.
Simplified steps to cleaning the carburetor include the following.
For your safety, make sure the engine is off.
Using a socket wrench, remove the carburetor bowl.
Remove the float bowl needle and pin by hand and remove the float bowl.
Remove the wheel to access the carburetor and remove the flathead.
Spray the carburetor with specially formulated carburetor cleaner.
Clean the bowl by hand.
Scrub the nuts. Use a wire brush if necessary.
Clean the carburetor’s holes and “throat.”
Use a can of compressed air to blow out any leftover debris.
Reassemble the carburetor.
Keep the manual nearby for step-by-step instructions.
You may also find it helpful to take pictures with your cell phone of each step in order to make the process easier the next time your snow blower’s carburetor needs cleaning.
For more information on available snow blowers and their maintenance, contact HBI.
730 Talbot St. West, Aylmer, ON
519-773-3100
855-773-3100 (toll free)
