How to Repair a Jet Ski Carburetor

The carburetor system on your jet ski can get clogged and dirty just like any small engine carburetor can if it is not maintained. If the jet ski carburetor gets into such a state, it can prevent the machine from starting. Repairing the jet ski carburetor typically involves taking it apart and cleaning it -- a process that generally takes about three hours.

Things You'll Need

  • Drip pan
  • Wrench
  • Pliers
  • Spray carburetor cleaner
  • Shop rags
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Instructions

    • 1

      Open the engine compartment to access the carburetor. Depending on the style of jet ski you have, you may have to remove the seats in order to get inside the engine compartment.

    • 2

      Remove the negative battery cable with a wrench.

    • 3

      Slide the drip pan beneath the carburetor and then use a pair of pliers to pinch the clamp holding the fuel line on the carburetor port. Pull the clamp and hose off the end of the port, and allow any excess fuel to drain into the drip pan.

    • 4

      Spray the carburetor cleaner into this port.

    • 5

      Use the wrench to remove the center bottom bolt holding the carburetor's fuel bowl. Remove the bowl and dump any old fuel into the drip pan. Spray the bowl and the float on the carb above the bowl.

    • 6

      Move the throttle linkage either by hand or with the pliers and spray the carb cleaner on it.

    • 7

      Dry off any excess fluid or cleaner with a clean shop rag.

    • 8

      Set the bowl back in place and replace the bolt with the socket wrench.

    • 9

      Replace the fuel line and clamp with the pliers and close the engine compartment.