Your vehicle’s carburetor is designed to mix the right ratio of air and fuel from your tank to create a combustible mixture. This helps to add more power to the engine and affects your speed and acceleration.
However, as with all car parts, the more you use it, the dirtier it gets. All of the debris from the air and road eventually gunk up the carburetor, which can negatively affect the ability of your vehicle to accelerate and can even cause damage to the engine.
It may seem like a simple product, but there are a wide variety of carburetor cleaners to choose from. Some require more effort but offer a more complete clean, while some offer a quick fix. That’s why we have rounded up some of the best carburetor cleaners on the market to help you find the one that is best suited to your needs.
Contents
- 1 Top 10 Best Carburetor Cleaners In 2022 Reviews
- 1.1 1 Berryman Products Chem Dip Parts Cleaner
- 1.2 2 Gumout Carb & Choke Cleaner
- 1.3 3 Berryman B-12 Chemtool
- 1.4 4 Mag 1 Carburetor & Choke Cleaner
- 1.5 5 Berkebile Oil 2 + 2 Instant Gum Cutter
- 1.6 6 CRC Carb & Choke Cleaner
- 1.7 7 Genuine Chrysler Accessories Combustion Chamber Cleaner
- 1.8 8 3M Throttle Plate & Carb Cleaner
- 1.9 9 Gunk Chlorinated Carburetor Parts Cleaner
- 1.10 10 Genuine Ford Carburetor Tune-Up Cleaner
- 2 Best Carburetor Cleaners Buying Guide
- 3 While You’re Here
- 4 Final Thoughts on The Best Carburetor Cleaners
Top 10 Best Carburetor Cleaners In 2022 Reviews
1
Berryman Products Chem Dip Parts Cleaner
First up on our list is a fast-acting cleaner that you can use to thoroughly clean all the parts of your carburetor.
The Chem Dip Parts Cleaner is a non-flammable, non-chlorinated cleaner that is safe to use on all metal, plastic, and rubber surfaces. This is an excellent way to efficiently clean all your carb parts in one go.
This 96-ounce container comes with a dip basket that can be used to submerge all the parts into the mixture. This allows the fluid to get into all the nooks and crannies of your parts and remove all the grease, gunk, oil, and anything else that has been building up.
Having the basket also ensures you won’t lose any of the parts.
Pros
- Fast-acting.
- VOC compliant.
- Dip basket included.
Cons
- Pricey.
2
Gumout Carb & Choke Cleaner
If you are more into the quick-fix approach when it comes to cleaning your carburetor, then the next cleaner on our list can definitely help you get the job done.
Once you start to notice issues in your vehicle such as hard starting, stalling, or frequent emissions, it is time to break out the Gumout. Its aerosol canister allows you to quickly and easily clear out the troubled parts.
The great thing about this cleaner is that it removes deposits from both the inside and outside the carburetor in no time. This result is a better performing engine and better fuel efficiency.
The Gumout cleaner also clears out gum, varnish, and dirt from the clogged parts of your carburetor. It is effective at cleaning unpainted metal parts of the engine as well. Having a versatile product such as this can go a long way in keeping your engine running properly.
It is important to note that this is not an effective product if you are looking to completely clean out your carb. The aerosol can is only designed to clear out the surface impurities that contribute to the lower performance of your engine.
Pros
- Quick-drying.
- Removes deposits.
- Solves hard starts.
Cons
- Flammable.
- Not ideal for a full clean.
3
Berryman B-12 Chemtool
Next up, we are featuring another Berryman carb cleaner that is a bit more simplistic than our first one. The Berryman B-12 Chemtool is a great little spray can that will allow you to get into the small openings of your carburetor to get you a complete clean.
It works great at removing gum and varnish deposits, and you aren’t just limited to using it on one kind of vehicle. It works equally well among cars, motorcycles, and off-road vehicles alike.
Unlike most carb cleaners, this cleaner adds an extra layer of protection to parts that are under the hood of your car in other ways. Not only does it remove deposits from the carburetor, but it also adds a protective coat on the surface.
It also will not damage the other parts of the carb like the catalytic converter and the oxygen sensor. The cleaner contains potent and effective solvents that are VOC-complaint in most places and can handle even the toughest jobs. Plus, it also goes a step further by helping to prevent your engine from stalling and rough starts.
Pros
- Multi-use.
- Adds a protective layer.
- Cleans the entire fuel system.
Cons
- Not VOC-compliant everywhere.
- Flammable.
4
Mag 1 Carburetor & Choke Cleaner
If you are a mechanic in a busy garage or just like to keep your personal stock full, then this next carb cleaner might be the one for you. The Mag 1 Carburetor and Choke Cleaner comes in a pack of 12, so you can stock up and keep your carburetor clean for a long time.
This cleaner dissolves then removes the harmful build-up of gum, carbon, and varnish deposits from your PVC valves and manifold control valves. Plus, this aerosol cleaner allows you to get to the external and internal parts for a deep clean.
This cleaner is extremely versatile. Aside from your carburetor and choke, Mag 1 works well to remove build-up on the other parts of your fuel system like the combustion chamber, linkage, and distributor shafts.
While the Mag 1 cleaner will make quick work of dissolving and removing deposits on your engine parts, you don’t have to worry about it damaging your oxygen sensor and catalytic converter.
Pros
- 12 pack.
- Cleans external and internal parts.
- CA VOC-compliant.
Cons
- Spray tube has trouble staying on.
5
Berkebile Oil 2 + 2 Instant Gum Cutter
If you are working with a small vehicle like a motorcycle or a lawnmower, the Berkebile 2+2 Instant Gum Cutter is the best carburetor cleaner for small engines. As it indicates in the name, this cleaner is made to remove gunk, sludge, and other deposits instantly.
Traditionally when you grease up your carburetor, you have to wait a while before using the engine. However, this cleaner is designed to use a rapid working mechanism. You can quickly cut gum with this 13 ounce can of cleaner and use the engine immediately after you apply the disinfectant. Just spray and wait for the instant drying to take place.
First, you will want to make sure the engine is turned off and cold before getting to work. Then you can use the included extension tube that allows you to get deep into the engine parts.
This provides a thorough and precise clean that will give you better results than some of its competitors. It is also totally safe to apply it to oxygen sensors and catalytic converters.
This can efficiently be used as a general parts cleaner for metal parts and various components such as PVC valves and hoses.
Pros
- Fast-working.
- Works as a general parts cleaner.
- Sensor safe.
Cons
- Highly concentrated.
- Not available in California.
6
CRC Carb & Choke Cleaner
If you need a carb cleaner that efficiently cleans without as many harmful chemicals, then the CRC Carb and Choke Cleaner is the perfect product to own.
With many other carb cleaners, you have to remove the carburetor and other dirty components in order to clean them. However, with this one, you can clean the carburetor right where it sits. Just make sure the engine is off and cold before you get to work.
The CRC Carb and Choke cleaner is made with organic ingredients that will not cause damage to the oxygen sensors and catalytic converters. Beyond that, it’s also less harmful to you and the environment.
If your vehicle starts to stutter or stop while you are driving due to a grime-covered carburetor, remove the outer cover of the carburetor and the linkage, then simply spray the carb with the CRC cleaner, and wipe it down with a rag.
This also works great as more than a carb cleaner. It can also clean other components such as heat risers, intake ports, automatic chokes, and exhaust gas valves. As far as versatile and safe fuel system cleaners, the CRC is tough to beat.
Pros
- Organic ingredients.
- Spray can.
- Works well as a general parts cleaner.
Cons
- Not ideal for large engines.
7
Genuine Chrysler Accessories Combustion Chamber Cleaner
Next up is a cleaner that is made specifically for Chrysler vehicles, but it will work just as well with the carburetors of other vehicles.
This cleaner uses strong solvents that efficiently and easily clear out all kinds of build-up in your combustion chamber. It also doesn’t take the skill of a mechanic to use.
This combustion chamber cleaner aids in the cleaning of deposits in combustion chambers to restore your engine’s performance to its former glory. Additionally, it meets both VOC and CARB automotive requirements. This means that it is safe and legal to use in all 50 states.
This Mopar cleaner also functions great as a precautionary measure that helps to avoid varnish in your fuel system. It also quickly and easily eliminates carbon build-up and other contaminants in other parts of the engine.
Pros
- Easy to use.
- Prevents future build-up.
- VOC and CARB compliant.
Cons
- Slow acting.
8
3M Throttle Plate & Carb Cleaner
Cleaning your carburetor can get messy, and the chemicals can also be quite dangerous, that’s why it’s important to maintain control over the cleaner as you apply it.
3M’s cleaner features an ergonomically designed trigger that gives you maximum control as you are dispensing the cleaner. On top of that, it’s applicator makes it very simple to use. You can also hold it at any angle which allows you to get into those hard to reach spots. Believe it or not, you can even hold it upside down!
The 3M Plate and Carb Cleaner efficiently cleans and lubricates the carburetor assemblies as well as the throttle bodies. This allows you to get your engine back to its optimal performance and helps to keep it there for longer.
This 3M cleaner contains less than 10 percent VOC. This makes it safe to use on coated throttle boards, and it won’t damage your oxygen sensor or catalytic converter.
You can also grab this cleaner in different sizes, or mix and match with other 3M products to fully clean out your fuel system.
Pros
- Ergonomic trigger.
- Allows for cleaning at any angle.
- Compatible with most vehicles.
Cons
- Strong odor.
- Not safe in closed spaces.
9
Gunk Chlorinated Carburetor Parts Cleaner
If you are looking for a cleaner from a top brand that will improve the performance of your fuel system without breaking the bank, then this next carb cleaner might be the one for you.
The Chlorinated Carburetor Parts Cleaner from Gunk is designed as a spray that can be sprayed directly over the carburetor that will have it looking and feeling good as new.
It effortlessly removes gum, dirt, sludge as well as carbon and varnish deposits that are the usual culprits that clog up the cylinders and the carburetor. It also works great as a cleaner for the metal parts that are often overlooked when cleaning the fuel system.
The standout feature of this Gunk cleaner is that it’s solvent-based. This means it possesses the right amount of chemicals to clean the carburetor quickly and thoroughly. It also works well to clean the heat controls, choke linkage, and manifold.
The whole process is simple and doesn’t require a lot of time or skill. All you have to do is spray it directly on the grime deposit of the carb component. Within 5 minutes, the sludge will liquefy, and you can clear it out.
Pros
- Powerful solvents.
- Clears carbon deposits.
- Cleans choke, valves, and metal components.
Cons
- Chlorinated.
10
Genuine Ford Carburetor Tune-Up Cleaner
Finally, on our list of the best carburetor cleaners is another budget-friendly cleaner that will bring your vehicle back to its optimal level of performance. When it comes to removing gums and other deposits from the engine, this cleaner works like a charm. While it was made especially for Ford vehicles, it will work just fine on most gasoline engines.
It does more than take care of those stubborn deposits that slow you down.
This works very well if you want to clean other parts of the engine and keep them from quickly building up more gunk and grime. You can also use it on other parts that are made from cast iron and varnished steel.
This means that you can easily clean your parts with precision accuracy. Plus, the can is 18-ounces, so you will be able to use it for a while without having to keep going back to the store for more.
Pros
- Can be used on cast iron and steel.
- Frees sticking valves and rings.
- Large can.
Cons
- Not for diesel engines.
Best Carburetor Cleaners Buying Guide
Now that you have had a chance to see some of the most effective carburetor cleaners on the market, you are probably closer to finding the one that is right for your engine.
Although, we realize we’ve thrown a lot of information at you, which is why we have put together this handy buying guide with the most important things to consider when choosing a good carb cleaner.
Safety
When it comes to heavy-duty cleaning agents such as this one, you want to take the utmost care in ensuring you are using a safe product.
Some carb cleaners on the market might cause allergic reactions for some, so its important to do your research beforehand to ensure you are getting a cleaner that is free from any additives that you are allergic to.
Many engine cleaning products have chemicals that can be corrosive or dangerous. It’s best to avoid them and leave those to the professionals. It could be the difference between life and death.
Ingredients Used
Not all cleaners are suitable for every kind of carburetor. Some carburetors utilize plastic and rubber in their construction, so more corrosive ingredients will end up melting those parts. This will end up damaging your vehicle instead of cleaning it.
Conversely, cleaners that are not corrosive enough may end up being ineffective for clearing out tougher deposits, rendering them ineffective.
It’s best to first check the type of carburetor your vehicle uses to see if it can handle the cleaner. If you are not sure, start with a cleaner that is safe for all surfaces and go from there. You may not get a completely clean carb, but at least your car won’t be damaged.
Easy of Use
Another thing to consider is how easy it is to use the cleaner. If it doesn’t make your life easier, then what’s the point of buying it? If it’s an excellent product that you can’t figure out how to use, then it’s not really that excellent after all.
The best cleaners will have a straightforward method of application. Generally, this means you can just spray and wipe down the carb, and then you are good to go. Cleaners that require a dismantling of the fuel system are certainly not easy for the layman. This requires a lot of technical know-how and a lot of time.
For this reason, it’s a good idea to find a simple cleaner that allows you to leave your fuel system intact.
Speed
You also want to consider the time it takes for the cleaner to do the job. A lot of carb cleaners can do the job pretty quickly. This is great if you are short on time or if you need a quick roadside fix. Typically, these kinds will have cleaned the carb and have you on the road in minutes.
However, if you have serious build-up and need a deep clean, then you should look for a cleaner that works overnight. It is not very convenient when it comes to time, but this will usually do a better job of clearing out deposits and ensuring they don’t build back up as quickly.
Chlorinated or Non-Chlorinated
The two most common types of carb cleaner are chlorinated and non-chlorinated ones. Both of them work well to clean your carburetor and get your engine functioning more closely to its optimal strength. The difference here is subtle but important to point out.
The chlorinated cleaners contain corrosive chemicals that are more effective when you are looking for a deep clean. These chemicals include perchloroethylene, methylene chloride, and trichloroethylene. These are volatile ingredients that do an excellent job of clearing out and keeping off the rust from an engine. However, they are harmful to both the human body and the environment.
On the flip side, non-chlorinated cleaners are made up of low toxicity chemicals like heptane, isopropyl alcohol, and petroleum hydrocarbons. These chemicals are environment-friendly and aren’t likely to harm you if they get on your skin. The downside is that they are ineffective at cleaning rust. But if you just need to clear out gum, carbon, or varnish deposits, this will work just fine.
While You’re Here
For some other great reviews that may be of interest, check out the Best Car Compasses, the Best Mechanic Gloves, the Best Bluetooth Headsets for Drivers, the Best Buffing Pads, and the Best Bug Tar Removers currently available.
Back to carburetor cleaners…
Final Thoughts on The Best Carburetor Cleaners
We are confident that our list of effective carburetor cleaners has given you the knowledge you need to find the one that best suits your needs. But if you still needed that extra push, we wanted to offer you our top pick.
The…Berryman Chem-Dip Parts Cleaner
… is a fast-acting cleaner that will ensure your carb gets the most comprehensive clean it can. You will need to remove the parts from their place to give them a proper dunk, but the result is a squeaky clean part and a high performing engine.
The great thing is that it’s made with non-toxic and non-flammable materials so you can rest assured knowing you are safe. Plus, with 96-ounces of cleaner, you will be able to really stretch out its usefulness.
Here’s to a clean carburetor and happier vehicle.