Having a clean carburetor is essential for the proper functioning of a Murray riding mower. Without it, the engine may run rough, consume more fuel, and refuse to start. Fortunately, cleaning a carburetor on a Murray riding mower is a relatively simple procedure, and can be done in a few steps.
Tools You Will Need
Before you start, make sure you have the right tools. You will need a Phillips head screwdriver, a pair of needle-nose pliers, a small flat-head screwdriver, and a can of carburetor cleaner. You will also need a container of gasoline and a rag.
Step 1: Remove the Carburetor from the Mower
The first step is to remove the carburetor from the mower. Use the Phillips head screwdriver to loosen the screws that hold the carburetor in place. Once you have loosened the screws, you can then use the needle-nose pliers to remove the carburetor from the engine. Make sure to keep track of all the screws and pieces that you remove.
Step 2: Disassemble the Carburetor
Once the carburetor is off the mower, you can begin to disassemble it. Use the flat-head screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the carburetor together. You will need to remove the top cover of the carburetor, as well as the bowl, the float, and the jets. Place all of these parts in the container of gasoline and set aside.
Step 3: Clean the Carburetor Parts
The next step is to clean the parts that you removed from the carburetor. Use the rag to wipe away any dirt or debris from the parts. Then use the carburetor cleaner to spray the parts and remove any buildup or gunk. Make sure to completely dry all of the parts before reassembling the carburetor.
Step 4: Reassemble the Carburetor
Once the parts are clean, you can begin to reassemble the carburetor. Place the float and jets back in their respective places. Then use the flat-head screwdriver to tighten the screws that hold the carburetor together. Make sure that all of the parts are secure before you move on to the next step.
Step 5: Reinstall the Carburetor
The last step is to reinstall the carburetor on the mower. Use the needle-nose pliers to position the carburetor in place. Then use the Phillips head screwdriver to tighten the screws that hold the carburetor in place. Once you have finished, you can then start up the mower and make sure that it is running properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need to clean my carburetor?
If your mower is running rough, consuming more fuel than normal, and refusing to start, then it is likely time to clean your carburetor.
What type of cleaner should I use?
It is best to use a carburetor cleaner specifically designed for cleaning carburetors.
How often should I clean my carburetor?
It is best to clean your carburetor every 6 months or so, or as needed.
Do I need to remove the carburetor from the mower to clean it?
Yes, it is necessary to remove the carburetor from the mower in order to properly clean it.
How do I reinstall the carburetor?
Once the carburetor has been cleaned and reassembled, you can use a pair of needle-nose pliers to position it back in place. Then use a Phillips head screwdriver to tighten the screws that hold the carburetor in place.
What tools do I need to clean the carburetor?
You will need a Phillips head screwdriver, a pair of needle-nose pliers, a small flat-head screwdriver, and a can of carburetor cleaner. You will also need a container of gasoline and a rag.
Do I need to use gasoline to clean the carburetor?
Yes, you will need to use gasoline to soak the parts of the carburetor before cleaning them.
Do I need to use a rag to clean the carburetor?
Yes, it is best to use a rag to wipe away any dirt or debris from the parts before using the carburetor cleaner.
How do I know if the carburetor is properly reinstalled?
Once the carburetor is reinstalled, you can start up the mower and make sure that it is running properly.
What type of screwdriver do I need to remove the screws on the carburetor?
You will need a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the carburetor in place.
Do I need to use a flat-head screwdriver to disassemble the carburetor?
Yes, you will need to use a small flat-head screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the carburetor together.
Can I use any type of cleaner to clean the carburetor?
It is best to use a carburetor cleaner specifically designed for cleaning carburetors.
Do I need to make sure all of the parts are secure before I reinstall them?
Yes, it is important to make sure that all of the parts are secure before you move on to the next step.
Do I need to use a rag to dry the parts of the carburetor?
Yes, it is important to make sure that all of the parts are completely dry before reassembling the carburetor.