Snowmobile Parts Tip: Carbureted Engines, Bad Gas, and Physics

Have you ever had a hard time getting your snowmobile to start? Maybe it's boggy on the low end? If you have a carbureted engine, your carbs may need a cleaning. But what exactly is a carburetor, how does it work, and why would it cause you problems?

Carburated vs Fuel Injected

Carbureted engines work by doing the fuel/air mixture outside of the cylinders. They do this by regulating the amount of air and gas flowing through the carburator via a system of needles and jets, which make use of a venturi inside the carburetor.

Carbureted engines are easier to start, and easier to maintenance than a fuel injected engine. However, the fuel/air ratios may not be as precise as a fuel injected system, which shoots fuel directly into the cylinders. A fuel injected system maybe be more prone to flooding, but may be more costly to maintain.

How does a carburetor work?

A carburetor works via a venturi. This compresses air slightly, creating a high pressure, fast moving jet of air. This has the effect of mixing air and gas, and creating suction through the airbox on the machine.

https://www.youtube.com/embed/Na9ORhYjvJU

What goes wrong?

Often times, particulates from your gas tank can get pulled through your engine which can cause a blockage. Burning ethanol rich gasoline will also deposit sentiments throughout your carburetor. These pieces can be extremely small, but have a huge effect on the overall performance of your machine. This can cause your machine to run poorly, bog at different throttle positions, or run sluggish.

What now?

Thankfully, with a carburated engine, you're in luck. Maintenance is easy to perform, and you can be up and running in no time. Sometimes times you can get away with simply cleaning your carburator and things will be up and running perfectly. Other times, you may need to throw a carburetor kit in along side the cleaning, or replace a jet. The good news is that both of these options are affordable. You can have your machine back up and running in tip top shape in no time.

Need Parts or a Mechanic?

Here at Precision, we carry a wide range of carburetor parts for all makes and models. If you're looking for a professional eye or a second opinion on your carburetors, give us a call!

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Snowmobile Parts Tip: Carbureted Engines, Bad Gas, and Physics

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