How do I clean my portable generator's carburetor?
This article provides step-by-step instructions for cleaning your portable generator's carburetor.
Environment
This article applies to most portable generators with carburetors.
If you are uncomfortable performing these steps, please contact an authorized service dealer. How Can I Find a Generac Service Dealer in My Area?
Step-by-step instructions
1. The unit should be OFF (not running)
2. Locate the carburetor and the fuel petcock (shut-off valve).
- The carburetor is typically located behind the air filter.
- On the carburetor, the bolt(s) at the very bottom, is the bowl fastener. Just above that, on an angle, is the drain bolt.
3. Turn the fuel petcock to OFF and place a container underneath the carburetor to collect any fuel in the line when removing the bowl.
4. Remove the float bowl from the carburetor by removing the bottom fastener(s).
5. Check the float bowl and jets for any debris or varnish. Clean as needed with carb cleaner.
6. To confirm the float is working, with the FLOAT PUSHED UP, turn the fuel petcock to ON. At this point, no fuel should be flowing.
7. When the float is released, fuel should flow.
8. If the results of fuel flow do not meet the above descriptions, the needle valve components need to be cleaned and/ or replaced.
9. If the results are as expected, turn the fuel petcock to OFF and reassemble. The unit should be ready for use.
