Tecumseh motors are known for their reliability and straightforward design. Mounted on everything from go-karts to lawnmowers to leaf blowers, Tecumseh motors are widespread and versatile. Rarely does a Tecumseh motor break down or require servicing, but regular maintenance will guarantee many more years of worry-free operation. One particular area of regular maintanance need lies in the air and fuel delivery system (ie the carburetor). With regular maintenance, carburetors can perform for a great number of years.
Order the proper carburetor rebuild kit from your local Tecumseh dealer (he can help you get the correct one if you provide the engine model number or bring the carburetor in to the store). Remove your carburetor by disconnecting the gas hoses and airbox nozzle with the needle-nosed pliers. Loosen the mounting bolts holding the carburetor body to the intake manifold and remove them. Slide the carburetor and the manifold gasket off of the engine, and set it a clean area to work.
Unhook the retainer wire on the bottom of the carburetor float bowl and remove the bowl. Unscrew the jet screw located in the middle of the top portion of the carburetor and carefully slide the needle out. Use the carburetor cleaner to spray out or at least loosen up any "gunk" attached to the carburetor walls and floats. Replace the gaskets on the interior of the carburetor and replace the needle with the one from the carburetor rebuild kit (which also included all of the internal gaskets).
Replace the jet screw and tighten it down to the manufacturer's specifications. Place the bowl gasket back on the carburetor bowl and snap the bowl back into place. Snap the retainer wire back into place as well. Place the manifold gasket in place on the motor and slide the carburetor into place on the engine. Tighten down the mounting bolts on the carburetor to the manufacturer's specifications and slide the air and gas hoses back into place on the carburetor nozzles. Start the motor up and adjust the jet set screws (on the outside of the carburetor) to get it idling smoothly with your new needle.
