Virtual Mechanic

PURPOSE
The carburettor is a very important multi function component as it mixes air and fuel together and it allows the engine to idle, to rev and to maintain desired speeds and overtake on full throttle.  At the same time its purpose is to mix air and fuel at the correct ratio.  The carburettor is only designed to operate with clean fuel and must be mounted securely in the manifold. 

THINGS TO LOOK FOR
The carburettor is capable of leaking fuel.  Signs of dampness or of red colour are indications of this.  Any fuel leak or smell must be attended to A.S.A.P.  A carburettor is also capable of blocking up the cruising, idle or full throttle circuits.  All these circuits are linked to a fine orifice or emulsion tube.  A flat spot or an automatic choke staying on for too long, indicates a problem circuit but the most dangerous indicator is a sticky throttle as this may cause an accident.

IS IT EXPENSIVE TO REPAIR?
Carburettors are costly, ranging from $85.00 for a single barrel to $350.00 for a four barrel.  Fuel over the years may gum up the operation and this is time to have the carburettor serviced.

TEMPORARY REPAIR AND LONG TERM REPLACEMENT
A blocked carburettor may go away or it may stay and require mechanical attention.  One option is sucking the problem out with a rag but be very careful as anything with fuel is dangerous and you can risk a backfire in your face or risk damage to your skin.
This article is found in the Virtual mechanic CD Rom
You can download it for the price of a latte, but you will learn not to buy a lemon
By Darren Gow-Brown, Melbourne Australia ©2009

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