What is the purpose of a carburetor cleaner?

The purpose of a carburetor cleaner is to remove deposits and contaminants from the carburetor and its components, which often include unpainted metal parts. These metal components can accumulate dirt, varnish, and fuel residues over time, leading to decreased engine performance and starting difficulties. Carburetor cleaners are specifically formulated to dissolve these build-ups effectively, ensuring that the carburetor can function properly and efficiently by allowing the correct air-fuel mixture to enter the engine. This cleaning process is crucial for maintaining the overall health and performance of small engines, as a clean carburetor is essential for optimal fuel delivery.

While lubricating engine parts and enhancing fuel quality are important in engine maintenance, these tasks are not the primary function of a carburetor cleaner. Similarly, removing old oil pertains to different maintenance practices and is not related to the specific function of cleaning carburetor components.