Ask The Editors: Why Would Fuel Come Out Of My Carb?
What could make fuel spray out of the carb?
We have to assume that because you mention gas coming from the jets, you have a carbureted Brute Force. If that’s the case, there are typically a few reasons for fuel to escape the carb.
The most common reason, and the first thing you should check, is the float. A stuck float will exhibit all of the signs you are experiencing and, if under sufficient enough pressure, could cause fuel to blow back through the jet orifices.
Sometimes the float is simply stuck and can be tapped free upon disassembly. If it isn’t stuck, the float needle valve could need replacing.
Is fuel also dripping from the carburetor body? The overflow? Pay careful attention to where the fuel is leaking as it can further illustrate what’s worn. If you’re losing fuel from the throat of the carb, it’s likely a ball check valve failing.
The last possibility we’d consider is a failed gasket. This used to be a pretty rare event but lately, with the more widespread use of gasoline containing ethanol (which dries out and cracks rubber components and gaskets), this is a very distinct possibility. Speaking of, the Kawasakis of this era did come equipped with slide diaphragms, which were also rubber and prone to cracking from ethanol degradation.
Your best best is to open up the carburetor and examine the internals. We’re quite sure your culprit is one of the items listed above.
