How to Clean a Carburetor on a 4HP Outboard Motor

A four-horsepower outboard is a motor that is used on small boats. The carburetor on the motor is responsible for distributing and blending air and fuel for combustion inside the engine. Over time. the carburetor may need to be cleaned. Impurities inside the gas tank, or build-up in the gas line, can impact the carburetor. If the carburetor becomes dirty or clogged, it is best to simply remove it and clean it out.

Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the engine cover on the top of the motor.

    • 2

      Use a pair of pliers to remove the throttle linkage from the sides of the carburetor.

    • 3

      Use the pliers or fingers to pinch and then remove all fuel lines from the carburetor.

    • 4

      Use the socket set to remove the two carburetor center bolts. Pull them free from the carburetor. Pull the carburetor free from the engine.

    • 5

      Use a screwdriver to remove the four corner screws. Separate the carburetor into two halves.

    • 6

      Use a screwdriver to remove the two screws and small metal pin holding the carb's plastic flapper in place. Set it aside.

    • 7

      Spray down the inside of the carburetor thoroughly with spray carburetor and choke cleaner. Spray all holes, cracks and crevices on both halves of the carburetor.

    • 8

      Place the flapper, screws and pin back in place after the carburetor has completely dried (approximately one hour). Wipe the exterior of the carburetor to dry up any excess cleaner.

    • 9

      Place the two halves of the carburetor back together. Replace the four corner screws with the screwdriver.

    • 10

      Slide the two center bolts back through the carburetor. Attach it back onto the motor.

    • 11

      Reconnect all fuel lines and the throttle linkage by hand or with pliers.