deaddds

I have a 47 Carter WA 1 that looks brand new but is completely plugged up with varnished old fuel. After i open it up, what should I use to soak the parts in to break the crud up before rebuilding. It looks to have been restored once before and then sat so long it just gummed up. I dont think a blast of carb cleaner is going to do the job.

classicmuscle442

Auto parts store sell a gallon container of carb parts cleaner, just disassemble and let it soak it cleaner, rinse/soak again. The new stuff is not as strong as the old was, so it takes longer to get it clean. Another choice is Klean Strip, used for cleaning paint spray guns, but not available everywhere.

Vintage Chief

There are many products (including the items mentioned). I have never found a better product for removing old fuel varnish & gum than this one. Shop around, you may find lower prices.

https://www.westmarine.com/buy/valvt...-13-oz--548107

OLDSter Ralph

You definitely need to soak it. Be careful when blowing out passages. Read the cautions, wear safety glasses, long sleeved shirt, chemical gloves and blow it so that blow back is away from you. Be careful around painted surfaces.
The old "HydroSeal" stuff was at least FIVE "skull and crossbones". Good luck.

droldsmorland

I have found paint stripper sourced at your local big box home store to do a superb job on varnish removal. Carb cleaner wouldn't touch it, brushed in the stripper and it fell off after a soaking period. No damage to the carb hard parts. Whatever method you settle on be sure to rinse well with hot Dawn infused water to neutralize residue followed by brake cleaner and compressed air.

Sugar Bear

If you are near any marine repair shops you may be able to pay them to soak the main pieces. Don't leave them any small items that could get lost. Varnished carbs are a common occurrence in their world.

This would also allow you to not buy and store the chemicals unless you prefer to have them on hand.

Good luck!!!