Ask the Mechanic

Steve Thompson, Contributing Columnist

PROBLEM: The power washer tries to run then dies, even with plenty of fuel in the carburetor bowl.

STEVE'S SOLUTION: The cap screw in the bottom of the carburetor does more than just seal the fuel in the carburetor. It's also a "well" to hold and supply fuel to the main jet up to the venture. As you see in the photo, the paths that fuel must take to reach the carburetor are small. The jet at the top is very, very small, and the "well" must be completely free of debris (which old fuel can make) in order for the fuel to be available to be drawn up by the vacuum of the engine. Clean these holes with a carb cleaner and small wire.

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-- Write Steve Thompson at Ask The Mechanic, 2204 Lakeshore Dr., Suite 415, Birmingham, AL 35209, or email mechanic@progressivefarmer.com, and be sure to include your phone number.

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