Getting oil or other contaminants out of a lawn mower carburetor typically involves either a thorough cleaning with carburetor cleaner or a simpler gravity drainage method. The choice depends on the extent of the "oil" or residue present.
How Do You Get Oil Out of a Lawn Mower Carburetor?
You can remove oil or other contaminants from a lawn mower carburetor by draining the gasoline tank, then either removing a plug or the bowl from the carburetor to rinse it out with a spray can of carburetor cleaner, or by simply turning the lawn mower upside down over a container for at least an hour to let the oil drain out.
Understanding "Oil" in a Carburetor
While engine oil usually circulates in the crankcase, the term "oil" in a carburetor context often refers to degraded fuel, varnish deposits, or residues from an improper fuel-to-oil mix in two-stroke engines. In rare cases, actual engine oil might enter the carburetor if the mower has been tipped incorrectly (allowing oil to flow through the breather tube to the air filter and then into the carburetor) or due to severe internal engine issues. Regardless of its origin, the goal is to remove this unwanted substance to restore proper fuel flow and engine function.
Preparation and Safety First
Before attempting any cleaning or drainage, it's crucial to prioritize safety. Always ensure the engine is cool and disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting.
- Drain the Gasoline Tank: This is the first and most critical step for both methods. Completely empty the fuel tank into an appropriate, safe container. This prevents fresh fuel from contaminating the carburetor during the process and reduces fire hazards.
Method 1: Thorough Cleaning with Carburetor Cleaner
This method offers a more comprehensive cleaning and is ideal for stubborn residues or significant "oil" accumulation.
- Locate and Access the Carburetor: Identify the carburetor, usually positioned between the air filter and the engine's intake manifold.
- Remove Carburetor Components:
- Carefully remove any drain plug located at the bottom of the carburetor's float bowl.
- Alternatively, you may need to completely remove the carburetor's float bowl itself. This often involves unscrewing a bolt or a few screws at the bottom of the bowl.
- Rinse with Carburetor Cleaner:
- Once the plug is removed or the bowl is off, use a specialized spray can of carburetor cleaner to thoroughly rinse the inside of the carburetor.
- Spray directly into the open passages, the float bowl, and any jets you can access. The cleaner will dissolve varnish, gum, and oily residues, flushing them out.
- Catch the runoff in a suitable container.
- Reassemble: Once clean, reattach the drain plug or float bowl securely.
Tools You Might Need:
- Wrench or socket set
- Screwdriver set
- Spray can of carburetor cleaner
- Catch pan/container
- Gloves and eye protection
Method 2: Gravity Drainage (Upside Down Method)
This is a simpler, less intrusive method that might be effective for lighter contamination or when you want to avoid disassembly.
- Prepare the Area: Place a large container or tray on the ground to catch the draining oil/contaminants.
- Turn the Mower Upside Down: Carefully tip the lawn mower completely upside down over the container.
- Allow to Drain: Leave the mower in this inverted position for at least an hour, or even several hours, to allow gravity to pull the "oil" and any other liquid contaminants out of the carburetor and into your catch container.
Pros and Cons of Each Method:
| Feature | Method 1: Carburetor Cleaner Cleaning | Method 2: Gravity Drainage (Upside Down) |
|---|---|---|
| Effectiveness | Highly effective for thorough cleaning, dissolves stubborn residues. | Best for lighter contamination, may not remove all residue. |
| Effort Level | Requires more effort, disassembly, and specific tools. | Relatively low effort, no disassembly required. |
| Time Required | Active cleaning time varies, then reassembly. | Passive draining for 1+ hours. |
| Contaminant Type | Effective against varnish, gum, and liquid oil. | Primarily effective for liquid oil/contaminants that can flow. |
| Tools Needed | Wrench, screwdriver, carburetor cleaner. | Catch container. |
Post-Cleaning Steps
After getting the "oil" out, it's essential to:
- Reassemble: If you disassembled any part of the carburetor, ensure everything is correctly put back together and tightened.
- Add Fresh Fuel: Fill the gasoline tank with fresh, clean fuel. For two-stroke engines, ensure you use the correct fuel-to-oil mixture.
- Start the Engine: Attempt to start the lawn mower. It may take a few pulls for the fresh fuel to cycle through and for the engine to run smoothly.
By following these steps, you can effectively remove unwanted "oil" and contaminants from your lawn mower's carburetor, helping to restore its performance and extend its lifespan.
