Watch how to stop a SURGING Lawnmower here --- th-cam.com/video/gV6IOkevloM/w-d-xo.html Watch how to stop a SURGING newer Ariens, Toro Cub Cadet etc. snowblower here --- th-cam.com/video/tfWNXsH2CVo/w-d-xo.html Watch how to stop a SURGING Tecumseh snowblower engine here --- th-cam.com/video/9peW43lG1lw/w-d-xo.html
The dirt is the residue of ethanol and will gather in that filter regardless of fitting other filters in the line. No need to take the fitting off spray cleaner will shift it.
@@sidneyeaston6927 Fact: Ethanol actually keeps your fuel system cleaner than regular unleaded gasoline. In dirty fuel systems, ethanol loosens contaminants and residues and they can get caught in your fuel filter. And if you continue to use ethanol-blended gasoline, your filter will remain cleaner for improved engine performance. - communityservices . nd . gov › Ethanol › EthanolFacts
@@RichardFallstich Yes in a fuel system that is being used on a regular basis. Fuel systems that are left to stand have problems that is why you hear so many complaints about garden equipment getting blocked fuel systems after months of storage.
When a youtuber doesn't beg for likes and has awesome content. I wish I could hit that like button a thousand times. Just saved me money on repairs for my ride on lawn mower and snow blower. Thanks friend.
Great tip, I have a generator that is doing the exact same thing - running perfectly with the choke is on - I've been through the carb. At least three times and never thought of removing that fuel fitting. Other"dishonest" repair shops are going to be upset with you for revealing state secrets. I punched the liked button. I'll be back with the results. Thanks for sharing your knowledge
Thanks Don! Been doing this for years and never knew that. Had a mower with a powermore engine, straight fitting on the carb, removed it, sure enough, almost completely blocked. Even after going through the carb, twice, and blowing air through the needle seat. Unless you remove the fitting, nothing comes out. It solved the problem of the mower stalling out after 10/15 mins. Thanks a million Don. Cheers!
Funny you should say that. Ive taken my carb of twice to clean the hell out of it and still doesnt run right. Ive even taken off the float and needle and sprayed down through there. Last year i cleaner it but never ran it because didnt get enough snow worth using the blower. This year was expecting a good storm so went to start it. Ran great when first started it with the choke on. Soon as i turned the choke even just one click it would die. Took the carb off n cleaned it again, even more thoroughly than last year. Started right up with the choke, one click it stayed running this time, 2 clicks it shut off. So ran it just the one click after warming it up. Turned the auger on, put power to the wheels back and forth a few feet, figured it would get me through. After the storm i went to clean up. Started right up, ran great, one click off the choke ran good, auger running still running good, power to the wheels still running, soon as it started blowing snow it would cut off. Im willing to bet this screen is clogged. The blower is only 4 years old and lightly used, always used stabil. Changed the oil last year. New plug this year. Im betting that screen is plugged. I hope so anyways or im at a loss
I retired from the small engine repair business 6 months ago. I performed warranty repairs on a variety of engines and equipment, this screen was mentioned in no training material that I saw up until that time. I as a general rule cleaned carbs with an ultrasonic cleaner and I would blow out the inlet tube as part of the drying process. I may have been running into that problem and fixing it without knowing that was the problem. As I think back, there were quite a few carbs that I didn't find gunk or corrosion but were cured by the carb clean. Thank you.
@@lard1892he knows what hes doing. He does this stuff all the time. He even said dont tighten it too much. You're an idiot if you tighten it too much and damage it
Ran across this before. A also had 2 stroke screen that looked clean but wouldn't take fuel because the screen had a wax film on it from varnisised fuel. Good tip Donyboy.
@@donyboy73 I have had about 4 from 2 stroke carberators that the screens had a wax film. Fuel wouldn't pass through even after 20 minutes in my sonic cleaner. It seems to turn to glue. I found good results using compressed air and carb cleaner after I put them through the sonic cleaner. You should make a video on that problem because you are good at explaining problems and getting good results. Thanks
I used carb cleaner on a small screen in the fuel rail of my 225hp Honda outboard. The screen looked slight amber, when sprayed, the silver screen color came back and motor ran good again.
@@kodiham7532 Carb cleaner works great but it deteriorates and deforms rubber gaskets and O rings. After spraying with carb cleaner I always run it through my sonic cleaner. I put straight gas in the sonic cleaner. Found that gas is by far the best. Never leave it unattended while cycling it
Oh yeah, I have had issues with dirt and two cycles. Especially chainsaws, and weed whips. There is a filter inside the tank on these and the dirt can still somehow get in the fuel line also. Probably number one issue for these motors is dirty filters/gas lines. If you are handy you might save yourself a few bucks here.
@@kevinmarchant9665 Yes you can just blow it out. I did it this way in video to show my viewers what is really going on. In a recent video I just blew the dirt out by blowing air through the needle valve seat.
An excellent reason to install an inline fuel filter on all lawn and yard equipment. For those removing the fuel inlet nozzle, understand they can leak after re-installation. The inlets were only designed to be press in once and seal through the friction fit. Every following removal and installation will not provide the same level of contact between the fitting and the carb body as the original installation did. You might be better off using pressurized air or cleaner from inside the carb to blow debris back out of the inlet.
As a commercial small engine mechanic, I don’t over load the fuel system with multiple filters, I use the one in the tank and that’s it. However I do install a shut off valve in case of a float sticks open so fuel doesn’t leak into the crank case or on the ground while not in use. But if you feel you need more protection then I would go with a inline filter but ask your local professional repair shop for a proper filter because a fuel pump system filter is different from a gravity feed fuel filter system. Great work and video. 👍😎👍
You are my new best friend. I been having carb troubles for a while now. Everything from surging to stalling. I could tell the engine was being starved of gas but I couldn't find the problem, until now. Finally my generator runs normal again. Thanks a lot my buddy.
I’ve just spent hours trying to fix a rotovator that only runs with the choke half ‘on’. Cleaned and recleaned the carb, didn’t realize there was another hidden fuel filter. Should have watched this video yesterday!
Excellent DB! There was a generator that i bought new that was acting that way in very short order. I've heard of some instances on these Chinese made carbs, when they cast the aluminum carb bodies, that sand could remain behind in the manufacturing process and so that was one of the immediate things that I had looked for from the get-go! In a case that you just presented, an absolute dead giveaway is that, if the small engine that comes with no external fuel filter that came originally equipt on the machine; well then that hidden filter is ever so much the issue at hand! Thank-You DB!! My son's riding mower is acting the VERY SAME WAY!
I have a box of carbs that I took off. I will now do this to see if that was why my cleaning had no result. Thanks for the video, I learned something helpful from you!
Learned something new after working on engines since I was 14 years old. I'm 72 now. Reckon I ain't as smart as I thought I was. Thanks for this great tip.
Thank you for the tip. I already bought two carburetors for my snowblower and couldn't find out why they will work for a few years and start having problems. I check both of them like you said and they had block screens.
Thanks a million for this very well put together bit of information. I am an older lady on a small retirement. I do all the work I can due to not having lots of money to hire jobs done. Every couple of years I have just replaced the carb on my tillers. This will help a great deal in future trouble shooting. Jesus Bless!
Every time I watch one of these vlogs with someone who has had equipment problems caused by dirty gas or something managed to get into the fuel tank. I think how great it would be if they all had a dad that taught me that a clear inline fuel filter is worth way more than they cost. He insisted that we run one on all the equipment we had that didn't already have a sediment filter in the line between the tank and engine. If you had a problem with a piece of equipment running you look at that filter and see if there was dirt, debris or bubbles of water in it it could same you a lot or work or get you pointed in the right direction.
@@77Mowers Just blow it straight back with the nipple in place if need be. Not quire as good but it’ll work. Some carb cleaner after to finish it off and as always watch those eyes with carb cleaner🤕
I cannot believe that. I could not even guess of how many carburetors that I replaced that I just could not get to run. I'm talking about taking everything apart put it in the dip bucket blow air through almost every single passage that I could get to. This makes so much sense. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. That's what I love about TH-cam no matter what part of the world you're in we can learn different things from one another. Fortunately for me I don't throw carburetors away I keep almost all the parts that I replace with very few exceptions. Now that spring is coming and I will be over in the garage once again the first thing I'm going to do is pull some carburetors out and check that screen. Over the winter I bought one of those small hand pumps that you can pressurize a carburetor with. I think with something like that it would definitely narrow down where a blockage is. If you're pumping air in and it's not making it through, the only thing to do is to start where it enters the carburetor. Another great video you really made my weekend. I don't work on lawn equipment as a profession. I'm retired and I get bored so for years I've been fixing neighbors and friends and families on equipment. And a couple weeks as the weather warms up that's when everybody will start bringing their things to me. Now learning about this screen is going to save them money. The only thing I ever charge people for is part and even then it depends who it is.
I started trying to help one of my older sisters, YOU are the one that got me the correct info to teach me how I could fix the issue. Thanks for the knowlage, you are the best! 😊
I just watched your video on fuel filter screens in snowblower carburetors and engines. It was extremely helpful. I spent hours trying to find where the fuel filter was for my Tecumseh HMSK80 snowblower engine. This video gave me all of the information that I needed - in a clear and concise manner. Many thanks for good information!
I am quite sure I was ripped 3 times before by the local mechanich. I know nothing about engines. Now, thanks to you, I am beginning to understand. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!!
Thank you very much for your videos!! I have a Harbor Freight 2500 inverter generator. It was running VERY lean. I had it nearly fully choked to keep it running. I took the carburetor off and thoroughly cleaned it and it still would only run when choked. Basically no improvement. Unfortunately I didn't know about the hidden screen until I saw this video today. I bought a new carburetor off eBay and installed it. The generator runs like new again. I'm fairly certain the hidden screen being clogged was the problem.
There was some fabric dirt on this screen. Lawn tractor Cub Cadet xt1 with Cub Cadet engine was starving fuel. It has fuel filter between tank and carburator however after over 3 years the small screen was almost full of dirt. Thank's for help as always, saved me from getting lawntractor delivered to the dealer(Paying 40€) and waiting for it to be fixed couple months. You are a good man.
sure, if there is two different metals, and one is another color, 'they got it in there, somehow'....reverse engineering is usually a better fix, like others here stated..'throw away the screen, and install an inline filter..' better designs shall rule....
Always informative videos. I'm somewhat mechanically inclined but always afraid to take something apart. It's like you try to do something then have to bring it in and the mechanic says 'Oh tried to fix it yourself huh" LOL Well after watching your videos I feel a lot more confident. I just take out my phone and either record or take pics of the process.
Wow, Don I look at the tools you have and I see you I have a lot of the same stuff. You just solved a mystery I have had for years. Friend of mine had a mower from CTC with the the same carb. To look at it it was very clear, just like new and couple weeks out of warranty it gave out. He brought it to me, the carburetor looked like it just came out of the box. I couldn't get it working he took it to the big repair shop down town, they couldn't get it working, they damaged the carburator trying, then offered to put on a new carburator for more than he paid for the mower. Soooo I just put another engine on the body for him. Going to check that carburetor out , but it won't work cause of the damage they did. Thanks ever so much
This reminds me of the gas trimmer engine carburetors that have the extremely fine filter in the fuel inlet port. This filter usually gets clogged & can be removed & the engine will run correctly with just the filter in the tank.
Great tip, Don. Thanks. I might add that a pair of "brass knuckles" (soft metal jaw pads) for the vise will prevent any damage to the carb's mating surfaces by the vice while you work on it.
Excellent tutorial , a lot of people wouldn't know this , how many carbs would have been junked because of misinformation over the years . Keep up the excellent work and content don . 👍 .
THAT was a must-watch vid. Did. Or know about that secret filter. 😀 I’m working on a vid about adding an inline filter to equipment that lacks one. Not sure why companies don’t include an inline, it cost 50¢
I can’t figure out why they won’t put an hour meter on small engines. The owner’s manual specifically lists the hours for each maintenance task but provide no way to measure it. They’re very cheap and super easy to install.
@@fivespeed3026 would add 25 to 50 dollars to the price tag, if I want an hour meter I'll add one or I'll say "I used my engine for 3 hours or so today, round up to 4" and just do maintenance early. I don't actually keep track since I don't use any equipment without hour meters enough to care.
Wow! I've worked on MANY of these carbs and never realized that screen might be there. However, I do typically blow Carb Cleaner backwards thru the needle seat and perhaps get lucky and clear that potential blockage. But now I know to look closer. Thank you.
Awesome need to know information! Would you guesstimate a year approximation when this screen started being put in use? I personally never thought those nozzles inserts were designed to be removed. I would’ve been afraid to grab hold and pull it off in fear that something would break or horribly leak afterwards.
Wow! Great find and tip. My Yardworks snow blower had exactly that same engine. Will make this one of my “to look at” list, if there’s ever an issue. Saving this one for future. Thanks Don. 🇨🇦👍🏼
Awesome video! I've been doing research for my first carb cleaning and you have answered all my questions! Most importantly the one about adding another inline filter to help prevent these issues.
I’m (for the first time) trying to fix a lawn mower I got for free, it isn’t working. I’ve been watching a lot of videos trying to learn how to bring it back to life. I haven’t seen a video on this yet, thank you. I will be sure to clean the screen when I get to the carburetor.
Some snowmobiles also have a screen inside the inlet where the fuel line goes. Those you can see but I never realized they were there. Most guys took them off simply because they act as a jet and greatly affect the snowmobile performance. I normally reverse clean the fuel inlet on all carburetors but this is something I have not run across yet. As always, a great thing to know about. Thankyou! Not one I would have thought about. The screen in the fuel tank is one I knew about. Seen some of those pretty messed up. I have seen them broken and no longer in the tank.
Thanks for that interesting insight. I too have been adding fuel filters under the carb covers. It is very tight in there but worth the extra filtration.
@@williamwalter4882 This is not a good idea. If you get some dirt on the under the fuel float pin for any reason, the pin could get stuck open. Then fuel will pour out of your machine while it is hot and possibly catch fire. Play it safe and keep the covert filter with the added exterior filter. I would rather risk it getting clogged again then catching fire. Remember that companies don't add pieces to mess with you. They probably did it because they go sued.
Thanks for that info. Haven't ran across that particular issue but it's good to know. The biggest problem I have is with my pressure washer that has a Briggs and Stratton engine. Seems like once a year I have to remove the bowl from the carb and clear the tiny orifice in the bolt that holds the bowl on. From cold, if it doesn't fire within 3 pulls, I clear the hole, put it back together and it fires right up on the first pull. I'll look to see if I can add an external filter - that might help prevent it.
As far as remembering how the position of linkage or how something was attacked to the carburetor, including the position of the float bowl, I always take a picture with my phone, before I remove anything. Works perfect for reconnecting linkage etc…. I love watching your videos, so many great tips. Thank you for sharing.
Yep, I've had it happen to me, and that is an experience you will never forget. Just as getting zapped by the sparkplug wire is, learn thy lesson, to never repeat again.
Thanks for the tip!, how about some videos on “homeowners grade chainsaws and 2 stroke power equipment “ that most shops won’t touch, like poulan pro, echo, craftsman and other cheap equipment!
Great tip I'll be checking mine before that problem comes about, I just hate it when all these little problems start to develop while using my equipment. Very good tip Don.
You can always buy some small fittings and more fuel hose and reroute the fuel hose to where you do have room to install a replaceable fuel filter. May not look as nice but is better than having to pull the carburetor out just to remove a little bit of dirt and debris.
@@ronz101 Correct. You do not want one of those dinky inline fuel filters. With gravity feed fuel the bigger the filter the better. And besides they will last a lot longer too unless you accidentally get a bunch of water in your fuel. But then you can usually easily take it off and blow the water out of the filter and drain the watery gas out of the tank.
Wow, didn't know about that little, hidden sucker. Working on my dad's snow-blower. Cleaned the carb, and the surging didn't go away. I'll be back on it again. Thanks!
Thanks for this l have been stumped..put away a brand new snowblower last spring, drained the fuel bowl and ran the gas out of the tank...yesterday l was preparing it for the season, put in fresh gas but no fuel was making it to the bowl...will work on this today!
In American society, the buy another syndrome is large. Why get your hands dirty doing manual labor, when spending the money is easier. That tiny "screen" is an equipment killer for generating more sales overall.
I have an older MTD blower, was thinking in earlier times trying to fix it was coil breaking down, didn't appear any spark was present. Changed coil and was same problem. It would run exactly as you described.. I tried blowing with my mouth where the line attaches to the carb, but I don't get any air through. Ahhh, after watching your video, this is probably the cause. No tank filter and no inline filter either. Will be going to camp now to check this screen. This makes so much sense, especially since I cannot get air through at all. I WILL let you know!
Great informative video, thank you. I had a thought at 3:10 " and we wouldnt want that "... 😅 my 2 cents for those still using pennies; a good in-line filter with a short hose section before the carb elbow, after removal of debris and screen, I'd imagine would free up maybe half a HP. A common 1.5" OD plastic canister paper fuel filter would flow easier and take longer to clog in theory.. So I don't run my seasonal equipment dry, store it full (valve closed) with a dash of run-through stabilizer mixed, and (the important one) at as steady a temperature as possible - shield from direct sun, and rainfall.
Great video! The way I clean carbs is to reverse-flush its oles & channels with my WATER PIC. That means directing the water jets/spurts in through the holes/openings that gasoline (or air) would be coming out when the engine is working. I use hot soapy water so that the carb will then dry out quickly.
The carb cleaner and pick techniques, yes, I can see pulling the fitting to reach and reduce resistance for the carb cleaner, access for pick. But if using air, leave the fitting in, it will hold the screen. Pull the bowl, float as described and hit the hole with full force. Maybe preload with cleaner. That way no removal of fitting is necessary. Very good video!!! 🤠👍👍
One of the most straight-forward DIY videos I have seen. I have the same model as shown and it won't start. Only used it twice ever. But luckily, it's still under warranty so I'm just letting them handle it if I can't get it started after draining the old fuel from the float bowl.
DON -- I HAVE SAME SNOWBLOWER/ENGINE/CARB & SYMPTONS -- THE HIDDEN SCREEN WAS BLOCKED (NOT AS BAD AS URS) BLEW OUT ETC AS U SAID -- YOUR'RE A "CARB WHISPERER" 😂😂😂 THANKS MAN !!!! 👍👍👊👊
I do the same thing without removing the fuel inlet fixture. Carb cleaner sprayed from the bowl side through the metering needle port, then a shot of air. Then there's no chance you blow the screen out by mistake. Also you don't risk breaking the fuel inlet fixture. Just my variation on what you're doin. Great content!
Once again ! Donny to the rescue. Your way is the best but I found that generous backwashing (from needle seat towards fuel inlet nipple) witth Powertune, letting stand a bit and blowing the same way will clear up the screen effectively. Merci mon ami !
Watch how to stop a SURGING Lawnmower here --- th-cam.com/video/gV6IOkevloM/w-d-xo.html
Watch how to stop a SURGING newer Ariens, Toro Cub Cadet etc. snowblower here --- th-cam.com/video/tfWNXsH2CVo/w-d-xo.html
Watch how to stop a SURGING Tecumseh snowblower engine here --- th-cam.com/video/9peW43lG1lw/w-d-xo.html
Thank you
From Wisconsin
The dirt is the residue of ethanol and will gather in that filter regardless of fitting other filters in the line. No need to take the fitting off spray cleaner will shift it.
@@sidneyeaston6927 Fact: Ethanol actually keeps your fuel system cleaner than regular unleaded gasoline. In dirty fuel systems, ethanol loosens contaminants and residues and they can get caught in your fuel filter. And if you continue to use ethanol-blended gasoline, your filter will remain cleaner for improved engine performance.
- communityservices . nd . gov › Ethanol › EthanolFacts
@@RichardFallstich Yes in a fuel system that is being used on a regular basis. Fuel systems that are left to stand have problems that is why you hear so many complaints about garden equipment getting blocked fuel systems after months of storage.
Donyboy73 is awesome !!! Video look like spring is will it already here soon or eventually!! Salu2 mi amigo!!!
When a youtuber doesn't beg for likes and has awesome content. I wish I could hit that like button a thousand times. Just saved me money on repairs for my ride on lawn mower and snow blower. Thanks friend.
Great tip, I have a generator that is doing the exact same thing - running perfectly with the choke is on - I've been through the carb. At least three times and never thought of removing that fuel fitting. Other"dishonest" repair shops are going to be upset with you for revealing state secrets. I punched the liked button. I'll be back with the results. Thanks for sharing your knowledge
I've been repairing cars and trucks for a long time and I still learn something from all your videos. 👍
Thanks Don! Been doing this for years and never knew that. Had a mower with a powermore engine, straight fitting on the carb, removed it, sure enough, almost completely blocked. Even after going through the carb, twice, and blowing air through the needle seat. Unless you remove the fitting, nothing comes out. It solved the problem of the mower stalling out after 10/15 mins. Thanks a million Don. Cheers!
Funny you should say that. Ive taken my carb of twice to clean the hell out of it and still doesnt run right. Ive even taken off the float and needle and sprayed down through there. Last year i cleaner it but never ran it because didnt get enough snow worth using the blower. This year was expecting a good storm so went to start it. Ran great when first started it with the choke on. Soon as i turned the choke even just one click it would die. Took the carb off n cleaned it again, even more thoroughly than last year. Started right up with the choke, one click it stayed running this time, 2 clicks it shut off. So ran it just the one click after warming it up. Turned the auger on, put power to the wheels back and forth a few feet, figured it would get me through. After the storm i went to clean up. Started right up, ran great, one click off the choke ran good, auger running still running good, power to the wheels still running, soon as it started blowing snow it would cut off. Im willing to bet this screen is clogged. The blower is only 4 years old and lightly used, always used stabil. Changed the oil last year. New plug this year. Im betting that screen is plugged. I hope so anyways or im at a loss
You are a soft spoken man that knows his business. Thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge.
I retired from the small engine repair business 6 months ago. I performed warranty repairs on a variety of engines and equipment, this screen was mentioned in no training material that I saw up until that time. I as a general rule cleaned carbs with an ultrasonic cleaner and I would blow out the inlet tube as part of the drying process. I may have been running into that problem and fixing it without knowing that was the problem. As I think back, there were quite a few carbs that I didn't find gunk or corrosion but were cured by the carb clean. Thank you.
Thank you! All these years, when working on the small engines, I have pulled out the needle and seat and never even thought about a hidden screen.
same here, this was a new thing for me!
Do all carburetors like that have that screen in them?
@@matthewkyle3793
treat them as if they do....
Number one guy to watch if you wanna learn small engine repair...never knew about that screen..thanks
Why would a person give this video a thumbs down? This is a great instructional video. Thank you
I did......anybody who puts a carb in a vise like that ....
@@lard1892he knows what hes doing. He does this stuff all the time. He even said dont tighten it too much. You're an idiot if you tighten it too much and damage it
probably a carbonator salesman!
@@lard1892I've done it for 40 years with no problem.
And, put vise grips on brass and put a pick or screwdriver up against that screen.
Ran across this before. A also had 2 stroke screen that looked clean but wouldn't take fuel because the screen had a wax film on it from varnisised fuel. Good tip Donyboy.
yes i see the 2 stroke screens that look clean but are clogged!
@@donyboy73 I have had about 4 from 2 stroke carberators that the screens had a wax film. Fuel wouldn't pass through even after 20 minutes in my sonic cleaner. It seems to turn to glue. I found good results using compressed air and carb cleaner after I put them through the sonic cleaner. You should make a video on that problem because you are good at explaining problems and getting good results. Thanks
I used carb cleaner on a small screen in the fuel rail of my 225hp Honda outboard. The screen looked slight amber, when sprayed, the silver screen color came back and motor ran good again.
@@kodiham7532 Carb cleaner works great but it deteriorates and deforms rubber gaskets and O rings. After spraying with carb cleaner I always run it through my sonic cleaner. I put straight gas in the sonic cleaner. Found that gas is by far the best. Never leave it unattended while cycling it
Oh yeah, I have had issues with dirt and two cycles. Especially chainsaws, and weed whips. There is a filter inside the tank on these and the dirt can still somehow get in the fuel line also. Probably number one issue for these motors is dirty filters/gas lines. If you are handy you might save yourself a few bucks here.
You are the doctor of small engine repair, you just cured me of many headaches to come. YOU THE MAN!!!!!
lol you're welcome, this video was your prescription!
@@donyboy73 seeing the fuel goes straight through, do you really need to remove that piece before cleaning, cant we just blow it out
@@kevinmarchant9665 Yes you can just blow it out. I did it this way in video to show my viewers what is really going on. In a recent video I just blew the dirt out by blowing air through the needle valve seat.
An excellent reason to install an inline fuel filter on all lawn and yard equipment. For those removing the fuel inlet nozzle, understand they can leak after re-installation. The inlets were only designed to be press in once and seal through the friction fit. Every following removal and installation will not provide the same level of contact between the fitting and the carb body as the original installation did. You might be better off using pressurized air or cleaner from inside the carb to blow debris back out of the inlet.
Doesn’t leak when using locktite
Even if you do put in a filter it can still get dirty. The rubber hose will degrade over time.
just fixed my back up outdoor generator... its been a pain in the butt until i watched this.... runs like a dream now.....many thanks...
As a commercial small engine mechanic, I don’t over load the fuel system with multiple filters, I use the one in the tank and that’s it. However I do install a shut off valve in case of a float sticks open so fuel doesn’t leak into the crank case or on the ground while not in use. But if you feel you need more protection then I would go with a inline filter but ask your local professional repair shop for a proper filter because a fuel pump system filter is different from a gravity feed fuel filter system. Great work and video.
👍😎👍
i agree with this.
You are my new best friend. I been having carb troubles for a while now. Everything from surging to stalling. I could tell the engine was being starved of gas but I couldn't find the problem, until now. Finally my generator runs normal again. Thanks a lot my buddy.
Been working on engines since I was 14. I'm 72 now. Reckon I ain't as smart as I thought I was. Thanks for this great tip! You're the man!
🤔 No wonder some of my carb cleans didn't work...
Was about to say the same thing!
Hope you kept some! Go back and see which ones you can salvage
@@mindyj9275 yeah ill have to go back and see if any have them.
I’ve just spent hours trying to fix a rotovator that only runs with the choke half ‘on’. Cleaned and recleaned the carb, didn’t realize there was another hidden fuel filter. Should have watched this video yesterday!
been there and done that good job
Wow! I always thought it was a straight shot through! Never imagined a screen there. Thanks Dony!
I've only found these screens on Powermore engines so far
Wow, i didn’t know about the little screen. I’ll make sure to remember that tip.
Thanks Don.
Now I owe you a beer !🍻 😁
Yum, beer😘
I want a beer 🍺
Just repaired Ariens snow blower that this was the issue. It kicked my ass until I found it. And then it ran fine after that.
The Bob Ross of small engines, relaxing to watch and listen too.
Excellent DB! There was a generator that i bought new that was acting that way in very short order. I've heard of
some instances on these Chinese made carbs, when they cast the aluminum carb bodies, that sand could remain
behind in the manufacturing process and so that was one of the immediate things that I had looked for from the
get-go! In a case that you just presented, an absolute dead giveaway is that, if the small engine that comes with
no external fuel filter that came originally equipt on the machine; well then that hidden filter is ever so much the
issue at hand! Thank-You DB!! My son's riding mower is acting the VERY SAME WAY!
I have a box of carbs that I took off. I will now do this to see if that was why my cleaning had no result. Thanks for the video, I learned something helpful from you!
This is 100% what the problem was with my Yard Machines Powermore carb. Screen behind the fuel elbow was packed with debris. Great tip!
Another great tip. Never knew this. These 5-7 min. tips are invaluable. Keep them coming. Thanks Don!
Learned something new after working on engines since I was 14 years old. I'm 72 now. Reckon I ain't as smart as I thought I was. Thanks for this great tip.
Thank you for the tip. I already bought two carburetors for my snowblower and couldn't find out why they will work for a few years and start having problems. I check both of them like you said and they had block screens.
Thanks a million for this very well put together bit of information. I am an older lady on a small retirement. I do all the work I can due to not having lots of money to hire jobs done. Every couple of years I have just replaced the carb on my tillers. This will help a great deal in future trouble shooting. Jesus Bless!
I hear ya'.
Every time I watch one of these vlogs with someone who has had equipment problems caused by dirty gas or something managed to get into the fuel tank. I think how great it would be if they all had a dad that taught me that a clear inline fuel filter is worth way more than they cost. He insisted that we run one on all the equipment we had that didn't already have a sediment filter in the line between the tank and engine. If you had a problem with a piece of equipment running you look at that filter and see if there was dirt, debris or bubbles of water in it it could same you a lot or work or get you pointed in the right direction.
Has anyone checked the screen after cleaning with an ultrasonic? Nice catch Donyboy! Thanks for the awesome videos!
it's better to manually clean it
@@donyboy73 Got it, thank you sir!
I cleaned a powermore carb with an ultrasonic and it still will not start. This procedure is happening soon.
Thanks Donyboy
Yes and it’s not clean as it should be so I pulled fitting now
Have I ever run into this problem before?
Probably, but didn't know it till now. Thanks, dony!
For some one like me this video was worth the time thanks.!
Huh, I always thought that little elbow wasn’t removable. Thanks for the awesome tip!!!
I was the same way here , about thinking it wasn't removable .
The plastic ones aren't replaceable
@@larrylewis1375 yeah I wouldn’t try this with a plastic one.
@@larrylewis1375 Yes they are , I've repaired many in my shop, they crack and leak at times , and you can buy new ones off of E-bay !! 🙂
@@77Mowers Just blow it straight back with the nipple in place if need be. Not quire as good but it’ll work. Some carb cleaner after to finish it off and as always watch those eyes with carb cleaner🤕
I cannot believe that. I could not even guess of how many carburetors that I replaced that I just could not get to run. I'm talking about taking everything apart put it in the dip bucket blow air through almost every single passage that I could get to. This makes so much sense. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. That's what I love about TH-cam no matter what part of the world you're in we can learn different things from one another. Fortunately for me I don't throw carburetors away I keep almost all the parts that I replace with very few exceptions. Now that spring is coming and I will be over in the garage once again the first thing I'm going to do is pull some carburetors out and check that screen.
Over the winter I bought one of those small hand pumps that you can pressurize a carburetor with. I think with something like that it would definitely narrow down where a blockage is. If you're pumping air in and it's not making it through, the only thing to do is to start where it enters the carburetor.
Another great video you really made my weekend. I don't work on lawn equipment as a profession. I'm retired and I get bored so for years I've been fixing neighbors and friends and families on equipment. And a couple weeks as the weather warms up that's when everybody will start bringing their things to me. Now learning about this screen is going to save them money. The only thing I ever charge people for is part and even then it depends who it is.
have a good weekend David!
I agree about the fuel filter. I had no idea that was there. I’ve never seen one on a parts breakdown. Thanks.
I started trying to help one of my older sisters, YOU are the one that got me the correct info to teach me how I could fix the issue. Thanks for the knowlage, you are the best! 😊
I just watched your video on fuel filter screens in snowblower carburetors and engines. It was extremely helpful. I spent hours trying to find where the fuel filter was for my Tecumseh HMSK80 snowblower engine. This video gave me all of the information that I needed - in a clear and concise manner. Many thanks for good information!
I am quite sure I was ripped 3 times before by the local mechanich. I know nothing about engines. Now, thanks to you, I am beginning to understand. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!!
Thank you very much for your videos!! I have a Harbor Freight 2500 inverter generator. It was running VERY lean. I had it nearly fully choked to keep it running. I took the carburetor off and thoroughly cleaned it and it still would only run when choked. Basically no improvement. Unfortunately I didn't know about the hidden screen until I saw this video today. I bought a new carburetor off eBay and installed it. The generator runs like new again. I'm fairly certain the hidden screen being clogged was the problem.
There was some fabric dirt on this screen. Lawn tractor Cub Cadet xt1 with Cub Cadet engine was starving fuel. It has fuel filter between tank and carburator however after over 3 years the small screen was almost full of dirt. Thank's for help as always, saved me from getting lawntractor delivered to the dealer(Paying 40€) and waiting for it to be fixed couple months. You are a good man.
Wow honestly never knew that. Thank you Don. I've always thought those connectors were part of the body assembly. We learn something everyday!
sure, if there is two different metals, and one is another color, 'they got it in there, somehow'....reverse engineering is usually a better fix, like others here stated..'throw away the screen, and install an inline filter..' better designs shall rule....
Always informative videos. I'm somewhat mechanically inclined but always afraid to take something apart. It's like you try to do something then have to bring it in and the mechanic says 'Oh tried to fix it yourself huh" LOL Well after watching your videos I feel a lot more confident. I just take out my phone and either record or take pics of the process.
Great video and info - I always thought the fittings were pressed in and couldn't be removed that easy. Cheers
Me to!
Wow, Don I look at the tools you have and I see you I have a lot of the same stuff.
You just solved a mystery I have had for years.
Friend of mine had a mower from CTC with the the same carb.
To look at it it was very clear, just like new and couple weeks out of warranty it gave out.
He brought it to me, the carburetor looked like it just came out of the box.
I couldn't get it working he took it to the big repair shop down town, they couldn't get it working, they damaged the carburator trying, then offered to put on a new carburator for more than he paid for the mower.
Soooo I just put another engine on the body for him.
Going to check that carburetor out , but it won't work cause of the damage they did.
Thanks ever so much
This reminds me of the gas trimmer engine carburetors that have the extremely fine filter in the fuel inlet port. This filter usually gets clogged & can be removed & the engine will run correctly with just the filter in the tank.
Wow!
Don you just described the problems I was having with my snowblower. I’m going to re-check it for sure.
Great tip, Don. Thanks. I might add that a pair of "brass knuckles" (soft metal jaw pads) for the vise will prevent any damage to the carb's mating surfaces by the vice while you work on it.
yes absolutely
Excellent tutorial , a lot of people wouldn't know this , how many carbs would have been junked because of misinformation over the years . Keep up the excellent work and content don . 👍 .
Excellent education, Don! As always, I keep learning more and more watching your channel. 👏
Never get too old too learn for sure !
Thanks!
THAT was a must-watch vid. Did. Or know about that secret filter. 😀 I’m working on a vid about adding an inline filter to equipment that lacks one. Not sure why companies don’t include an inline, it cost 50¢
50 cent screen or $75 repair bill. I think I know why
I can’t figure out why they won’t put an hour meter on small engines. The owner’s manual specifically lists the hours for each maintenance task but provide no way to measure it. They’re very cheap and super easy to install.
Sometimes they can inhibit the flow of fuel, depending on the machine. Otherwise the red filters are usually fine to use.
@@fivespeed3026 would add 25 to 50 dollars to the price tag, if I want an hour meter I'll add one or I'll say "I used my engine for 3 hours or so today, round up to 4" and just do maintenance early. I don't actually keep track since I don't use any equipment without hour meters enough to care.
Manufacturers look at cost overall not each unit 75c added to 5000machines add up make dealers pay more which makes consumers pay more
Wow! I've worked on MANY of these carbs and never realized that screen might be there. However, I do typically blow Carb Cleaner backwards thru the needle seat and perhaps get lucky and clear that potential blockage. But now I know to look closer. Thank you.
Awesome need to know information! Would you guesstimate a year approximation when this screen started being put in use? I personally never thought those nozzles inserts were designed to be removed. I would’ve been afraid to grab hold and pull it off in fear that something would break or horribly leak afterwards.
Great video.....another way to help dirt from getting in the carb is to use a funnel with a screen inside the spout.
Wow! Great find and tip. My Yardworks snow blower had exactly that same engine. Will make this one of my “to look at” list, if there’s ever an issue. Saving this one for future. Thanks Don. 🇨🇦👍🏼
Awesome video! I've been doing research for my first carb cleaning and you have answered all my questions! Most importantly the one about adding another inline filter to help prevent these issues.
THIS IS A GREAT TIP, DON, THANKS! TO THINK OF ALL THE CARBS I'VE THROWN AWAY.....
Yeah, I was wondering the same thing. I'll bet I may have tossed a couple of carbs for this reason.
That is what these companies count on. Throw it away and buy more.
I’m (for the first time) trying to fix a lawn mower I got for free, it isn’t working. I’ve been watching a lot of videos trying to learn how to bring it back to life. I haven’t seen a video on this yet, thank you. I will be sure to clean the screen when I get to the carburetor.
Lawn mower fixed! Starts on first pull now. Needed a pull cord, spark plug, and carburetor jet was clogged with slug.
Some snowmobiles also have a screen inside the inlet where the fuel line goes. Those you can see but I never realized they were there. Most guys took them off simply because they act as a jet and greatly affect the snowmobile performance. I normally reverse clean the fuel inlet on all carburetors but this is something I have not run across yet. As always, a great thing to know about. Thankyou! Not one I would have thought about. The screen in the fuel tank is one I knew about. Seen some of those pretty messed up. I have seen them broken and no longer in the tank.
I replaced two carbs this past summer for this exact problem. Excellent video! Thank you!
I have never seen this before. Thank you so much for the video.
Thank you for doing this video. My ignorance about small engines is profound, but your videos help.
Nice one, not many out will know about that ...!
Thanks for that interesting insight. I too have been adding fuel filters under the carb covers. It is very tight in there but worth the extra filtration.
I’d throw the screen away and add an in-line fuel filter.
Absolutely! That's exactly what I did to mine.
👍
@@williamwalter4882 This is not a good idea. If you get some dirt on the under the fuel float pin for any reason, the pin could get stuck open. Then fuel will pour out of your machine while it is hot and possibly catch fire. Play it safe and keep the covert filter with the added exterior filter. I would rather risk it getting clogged again then catching fire. Remember that companies don't add pieces to mess with you. They probably did it because they go sued.
@@ghopkins25 Nope!
Thanks for that info. Haven't ran across that particular issue but it's good to know. The biggest problem I have is with my pressure washer that has a Briggs and Stratton engine. Seems like once a year I have to remove the bowl from the carb and clear the tiny orifice in the bolt that holds the bowl on. From cold, if it doesn't fire within 3 pulls, I clear the hole, put it back together and it fires right up on the first pull. I'll look to see if I can add an external filter - that might help prevent it.
As far as remembering how the position of linkage or how something was attacked to the carburetor, including the position of the float bowl, I always take a picture with my phone, before I remove anything. Works perfect for reconnecting linkage etc…. I love watching your videos, so many great tips. Thank you for sharing.
I in fact just started having the problem after 10+ years on lawn mower. Thanks for video. I didn't know where the screen was.
Don't be afraid to wear safety glasses; carb cleaner blowback does not feel good in the eyes.
I found that out last fall, and I know better!
@@scottfirman me too lol
Yep, I've had it happen to me, and that is an experience you will never forget. Just as getting zapped by the sparkplug wire is, learn thy lesson, to never repeat again.
@@stellarproductions8888 sounds like a good friday night to me!
@@DavesSmallEngines ohhhhh Ha Ha Dave. 🤪
So far the greatest discovery of 2021 👍🏼
like Perseverance landing on Mars!
Great video Don. Never realized there was a screen on the inlet. 👍
Thanks for your videos, I never knew thier was a filter screen on the inlet fuel line . 50 years working on junk . Lol .God bless yall real good.
Thanks for the tip!, how about some videos on “homeowners grade chainsaws and 2 stroke power equipment “ that most shops won’t touch, like poulan pro, echo, craftsman and other cheap equipment!
Great tip I'll be checking mine before that problem comes about, I just hate it when all these little problems start to develop while using my equipment. Very good tip Don.
You can always buy some small fittings and more fuel hose and reroute the fuel hose to where you do have room to install a replaceable fuel filter. May not look as nice but is better than having to pull the carburetor out just to remove a little bit of dirt and debris.
Brilliant!!! Jesus bless.
Please remember you have a gravity fuel feed and must allow for an even flow.
@@ronz101
Correct. You do not want one of those dinky inline fuel filters. With gravity feed fuel the bigger the filter the better. And besides they will last a lot longer too unless you accidentally get a bunch of water in your fuel. But then you can usually easily take it off and blow the water out of the filter and drain the watery gas out of the tank.
Excellent
good presentation and visual guidance in an easy explanation
GREAT TIP DON!! THANK YOU!!
Thanks for watching Larry
@@donyboy73 You're welcome Don. I enjoy your channel and owe all I know about small engine repair to it.
Wow, didn't know about that little, hidden sucker. Working on my dad's snow-blower. Cleaned the carb, and the surging didn't go away. I'll be back on it again. Thanks!
Good video dony mate.. I have come across this before.. hope all is good mate
you too Mick!
Thanks ( DON ). YOU JUST HELPED WITH A CARB PROBLEM. NOW THE MACHINE IS RUNNING GREAT AGAIN. 👍
Good to hear!
Thanks for this l have been stumped..put away a brand new snowblower last spring, drained the fuel bowl and ran the gas out of the tank...yesterday l was preparing it for the season, put in fresh gas but no fuel was making it to the bowl...will work on this today!
Couldn't we eliminate the carb filter altogether and just go with the in-line?
yes
Thank you so much. I am going out to see if this was my problem? I have taken the carb apart 3 times, used carb cleaner to no avail. Thanks again.
I would take the screen out and put a good old inline fuel filter in front of it.
edit: thanks, Donny talks about that, watched it to the end now...
I like your plain style. Making the whole repair doable. Thanks 🙂
In American society, the buy another syndrome is large. Why get your hands dirty doing manual labor, when spending the money is easier. That tiny "screen" is an equipment killer for generating more sales overall.
U better pray for that
That's bs I know of no one that does that we all fix or rig something anything not to spend money
I have an older MTD blower, was thinking in earlier times trying to fix it was coil breaking down, didn't appear any spark was present. Changed coil and was same problem. It would run exactly as you described.. I tried blowing with my mouth where the line attaches to the carb, but I don't get any air through. Ahhh, after watching your video, this is probably the cause. No tank filter and no inline filter either. Will be going to camp now to check this screen. This makes so much sense, especially since I cannot get air through at all. I WILL let you know!
Great informative video, thank you. I had a thought at 3:10 " and we wouldnt want that "... 😅 my 2 cents for those still using pennies; a good in-line filter with a short hose section before the carb elbow, after removal of debris and screen, I'd imagine would free up maybe half a HP. A common 1.5" OD plastic canister paper fuel filter would flow easier and take longer to clog in theory..
So I don't run my seasonal equipment dry, store it full (valve closed) with a dash of run-through stabilizer mixed, and (the important one) at as steady a temperature as possible - shield from direct sun, and rainfall.
Thank You !!! I tried everything and nothing worked but this did. I really appreciate it !!
WOW, I had been chasing the problem on my 1332 Ariens for years. That little screen was the problem. I owe you a beer Donboy. 🏆
Great video!
The way I clean carbs is to reverse-flush its oles & channels with my WATER PIC. That means directing the water jets/spurts in through the holes/openings that gasoline (or air) would be coming out when the engine is working. I use hot soapy water so that the carb will then dry out quickly.
The carb cleaner and pick techniques, yes, I can see pulling the fitting to reach and reduce resistance for the carb cleaner, access for pick.
But if using air, leave the fitting in, it will hold the screen. Pull the bowl, float as described and hit the hole with full force. Maybe preload with cleaner. That way no removal of fitting is necessary.
Very good video!!!
🤠👍👍
One of the most straight-forward DIY videos I have seen. I have the same model as shown and it won't start. Only used it twice ever. But luckily, it's still under warranty so I'm just letting them handle it if I can't get it started after draining the old fuel from the float bowl.
I have been watching your videos and I have maintained and fixed my equipment running. Thank you for your information!!!
Just giving Credit where credit is due!
wow..I didn't know about that little screen..I'll be starting to watch ur videos now.
it's mostly on powermore engines
DON -- I HAVE SAME SNOWBLOWER/ENGINE/CARB & SYMPTONS -- THE HIDDEN SCREEN WAS BLOCKED (NOT AS BAD AS URS) BLEW OUT ETC AS U SAID -- YOUR'RE A "CARB WHISPERER" 😂😂😂 THANKS MAN !!!! 👍👍👊👊
I do the same thing without removing the fuel inlet fixture. Carb cleaner sprayed from the bowl side through the metering needle port, then a shot of air. Then there's no chance you blow the screen out by mistake. Also you don't risk breaking the fuel inlet fixture. Just my variation on what you're doin. Great content!
Great how too video, had some similar issues with my riding lawn mower and your advice was right on the money. Thank You!
Once again ! Donny to the rescue. Your way is the best but I found that generous backwashing (from needle seat towards fuel inlet nipple) witth Powertune, letting stand a bit and blowing the same way will clear up the screen effectively. Merci mon ami !