Small Engine Carbs - Rebuild or Replace?

I decided to try a rebuild kit as it was about $50 less than a replacement carb. Unfortunately even with a rebuild kit and a new float I couldn't get it to stop leaking. I didn't want to invest any more time or money in the old carburetor so I decided to buy a replacement carb.

I purchased a cheap replacement carb I found on Ebay for $30. Prior to purchasing the carb I searched for reviews on the carb and those that I found were positive. Unfortunately the carb didn't work for me.

When the carb arrived I noticed that the fuel inlet was pointed in the wrong direction. A warning notice in the box stated that the carb would be severely damaged if the fuel inlet position was changed - apparently that's why they cost $30. Shipping it back to the seller wasn't an option so I tried to make it work. I managed to get the fuel line connected without kinks but when I started the snowblower it would only run with the choke exactly 1 1/2 clicks from full choke and then not very well.

Next, I ordered a replacement carb from Sears for $65 and it arrived about a week later. This time there were no installation issues and after about 10 minutes my snowblower was completely reassembled, running well and leak free.

Conclusion

I recommend that you always try the simplest carburetor repairs first. Many carburetor problems can be solved without purchasing any parts at all. The solution to your carburetor problem may be as simple as draining old gas from the tank and/or some minor disassembly of the carburetor (float bowl for example) and cleaning with carb cleaner.

If minor cleaning doesn't solve your problem a carb rebuild kit might. However, the quickest and easiest way to get your small engine equipment up and running again is to purchase an OEM replacement carb from a reputable seller and just bolt it on.