Cleaning a carb needle

[Lane Ranger 10,968]

I had a carb leak on one of my RJs K-91 Kohler with a brass float in the bowl.   I tool off the carb to inspect and clean.  This has a Clinton type air filter in it but has been a reliable starter and no issues for ten years.

 

checked bowl and float no holes.

 

The needle did not drop out of carb right away and may have been stuck. I am not sure if it was obstructed or stuck all the way.  
 

Is brake cleaner a good solvent to clean the head of the needle?  I hear they can get a film on them from gasoline etc.

 

Going to put back together and try it out again before I do any other changes with the carb.

 

Air cleaner was pretty well dirtied up so going to be putting a new Puralator on it !  That might have contributed to problems! 

 

 

[squonk 41,065]

A good quality brake cleaner would work but why not use carb cleaner. I'd be more concerned what the seat looked like. 

[ebinmaine 67,413]

If a K91 uses an easily accessible carb rebuild kit I wouldn't try to clean a needle and seat anymore. 

I've tried a few. Most were OK for a bit but didn't last.  

[lynnmor 7,305]

53 minutes ago, squonk said:

A good quality brake cleaner would work but why not use carb cleaner. I'd be more concerned what the seat looked like. 

Yes, carb cleaner will better clean those deposits.  The spray straw directed into all holes  is a good cleaning tool but use a face shield.

[Bill D 1,916]

Based on the corrosion in that float bowl I'd replace it.  Use Briggs PN 221995.

[Lane Ranger 10,968]

1 hour ago, Bill D said:

Based on the corrosion in that float bowl I'd replace it.  Use Briggs PN 221995.

 

Bill yes I inspected that closely again and found a pin hole!    I did not see the two or three times I tried to determine if there was one.   The bowl must be fifty years old or more.  

Ihad another and changed it out! I think it maybe know. I will reinstall tomorrow!