How to Clean and Maintain Your Carburetor

Updated
  • Updated on Apr 11, 2025
  • Published on Mar 4, 2025
  • 2 minute(s) read
  • E

Why a Clean Carburetor Matters

A well-maintained carburetor is crucial for your Cyclone Rake’s optimal performance. If your engine is struggling to start, running rough, or lacking power, a clogged carburetor is often the culprit. Fortunately, a thorough cleaning can often restore proper function without needing replacement parts.

Recommended Cleaning Solution: Sea Foam

To dissolve gum and varnish buildup in the carburetor and fuel system, we recommend using Sea Foam. It is particularly effective in:

  • Breaking down stubborn gum and varnish deposits

  • Clearing needle valves, bowls, jets, and nozzles

  • Lubricating and cleaning carburetor intake areas for improved performance

How to Clean Your Carburetor

Step 1: Preparation

  1. Locate & Drain the Carburetor

    • The carburetor is near the metallic fuel bowl underneath or behind the air filter.

    • Depending on your engine model, you may see a head screw on the side or a bolt-head at the bottom.

    • Loosen the screw or bolt to drain old fuel. Once empty, re-tighten it.

  2. Remove the Air Filter

    • This provides clear access to the carburetor.

Step 2: Cleaning Process

  1. Spray about a shot-glass worth of Sea Foam directly into the base of the air filter so it reaches the carburetor.

  2. Let it sit overnight to dissolve buildup.

Step 3: Engine Testing & Reassembly

  1. The next day, start the engine with the air filter removed.

  2. Let it run until the Sea Foam is burned off.

  3. If the engine sputters and dies, spray additional cleaner into the carburetor and restart.

  4. Repeat until the engine runs smoothly on its own.

✅ For older Tecumseh or Briggs & Stratton engines, these steps are the same.

Need More Detailed Information?

Find the printable, downloadable PDF by clicking on this link Cleaning the Carburetor

When to Replace Your Carburetor

If cleaning does not resolve performance issues, a replacement may be necessary. Before replacing, confirm with a Briggs & Stratton dealer for part availability.

Where to Buy Carburetors & Rebuild Kits

Replacement Carburetor Reference Guide

Find the correct replacement parts based on your engine model:

Engine Model

Model #

Replacement Carb #

Rebuild Kit #

Briggs Intek 6 HP

121232-0115 (Before 10090100)

697354

797634

Briggs Intek 6 HP

121232-0115 (After 10083100)

798653

797634

Briggs Intek 7 HP

122032-0134

591299

797634

Briggs Vanguard 6.5 HP Phase 1

12H332-0114

698558

698567

XR-950 PRO Engine

130G32-0184

596079

591770

Briggs Vanguard 6.5 HP Phase 2

13L332-0119

595318

798521

VG Cyclonic 6.5 HP

12V332-0136

8402952

597138

8 & 10 HP Vanguard

After 181125

84003204

84004975

8 & 10 HP Vanguard

Before 181125

84004885

799722

9 HP Vanguard

20H132-0111

796321

N/A

Preventive Maintenance Tips

To avoid carburetor issues in the future:

  • Use fresh fuel (less than 30 days old)

  • Add fuel stabilizer when storing the unit

  • Drain fuel completely for long-term storage

  • Follow regular maintenance guidelines in your owner’s manual

Have Questions? We're Here to Help! Our team is always happy to assist with troubleshooting, part identification, or ordering guidance. Whether you'd like to call us at 888-531-7253, schedule a callback, or send us a message through our Contact Us form, we're ready to help get your engine running smoothly again!