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Carb adjustment tool
#1
D
Dscheoeder83
D
Dscheoeder83
Where can I buy the "D" shaped screwdriver to adjust the carb on a new weed wacker? None of my local shops stock/offer them
#2
M
motoman
M
motoman
Make one. Go to the DIY speed and spark tool, this forum. I have seen them advertized on Amazon.
#3
I
ILENGINE
Legally you cannot purchase one, or the dealer sell one to a customer. Under current regulations the dealer can be fined $38,500 for selling it and the customer can be fined $3,850 for procession of the tool.
I
ILENGINE
Where can I buy the "D" shaped screwdriver to adjust the carb on a new weed wacker? None of my local shops stock/offer them
Legally you cannot purchase one, or the dealer sell one to a customer. Under current regulations the dealer can be fined $38,500 for selling it and the customer can be fined $3,850 for procession of the tool.
#4
D
Dscheoeder83
D
Dscheoeder83
Is it even worth buying one off eBay/amazon? Or pretty slim chance of being caught?
#5
reynoldston
You must have a reason for saying this. Who is going to enforce this. One thing also my tool box is off limits to the tool cops. They will just have to go to a judge and get a search warrant if they want to take a look.
reynoldston
Legally you cannot purchase one, or the dealer sell one to a customer. Under current regulations the dealer can be fined $38,500 for selling it and the customer can be fined $3,850 for procession of the tool.
You must have a reason for saying this. Who is going to enforce this. One thing also my tool box is off limits to the tool cops. They will just have to go to a judge and get a search warrant if they want to take a look.
#6
exotion
exotion
Just secure your toolbox in my garage 
its built like a vault
its built like a vault
#7
Carscw
Carscw
Just order the dang thing and don't brag about it
(( cowboy up and get over it ))
(( cowboy up and get over it ))
#8
M
motoman
M
motoman
OK, the "why" man is asking you all this: Why are authorized dealers allowed to make the adjustment, but not private parties. I know the following (1) 2 strokes are notorious for emissions (2) exhaust gas anlalyzers are expensive. Do dealers have and use them? (3) A properly running 2 stroke motor will choke and not reach full power if the hi speed circuit (jet) is too lean (4) the two stroke will not idle if the lo speed circuit is too rich. I have seen a dealer take a chainsaw outside and do what the home owner does: open or close the hi side to ear and the low side to stop the chain at idle. That's what I would do. I love clean air and maintain full emission equipment on my exempt car. So pros please tell us if you have special equipment. I realize 20 million poor running 2 strokers could foul the air.
#9
exotion
My jeep is going to be exempt this year. I am going to violently rip all the emission garbage out. I did this with my old 83 celica and gained about 8mpg
exotion
OK, the "why" man is asking you all this: Why are authorized dealers allowed to make the adjustment, but not private parties. I know the following (1) 2 strokes are notorious for emissions (2) exhaust gas anlalyzers are expensive. Do dealers have and use them? (3) A properly running 2 stroke motor will choke and not reach full power if the hi speed circuit (jet) is too lean (4) the two stroke will not idle if the lo speed circuit is too rich. I have seen a dealer take a chainsaw outside and do what the home owner does: open or close the hi side to ear and the low side to stop the chain at idle. That's what I would do. I love clean air and maintain full emission equipment on my exempt car. So pros please tell us if you have special equipment. I realize 20 million poor running 2 strokers could foul the air.
My jeep is going to be exempt this year. I am going to violently rip all the emission garbage out. I did this with my old 83 celica and gained about 8mpg
#10
D
DaveTN
D
DaveTN
I made several carb adjustment tools used on the spline-type screws by using an old Bic pen. Take the writing part out of the part that you hold in your hand. Take a knife and cut the tip back just enough to make a snug, tight fit and then adjust. I've also used the tips off caulk tubes with some success as well, but they require more cutting and filing down. I'm planning on making the "D" type adjuster as well by using a nail, or old screwdriver and grind one side down to make a half circle, or "D" shape. Has anyone else made these?
#11
I
ILENGINE
The US EPA is in fact having uncover agents going into mower shops and attempting to purchase the adjustment tools. Unauthorized procession of the tools and adjusting the carbs without being an authorized service center is considered tampering with an emissions control device. The old rule was that only manufacturers, distributors, and dealers were responsible, but that changed in 2010, and now the customer is also subject to fines.
From my understanding, even though a tool is sold to an authorized MTD dealer, I can't legally use that tool to adjust the carb on say a Dolmar if I wasn't an authorized dealer for the Dolmar.
I
ILENGINE
You must have a reason for saying this. Who is going to enforce this. One thing also my tool box is off limits to the tool cops. They will just have to go to a judge and get a search warrant if they want to take a look.
The US EPA is in fact having uncover agents going into mower shops and attempting to purchase the adjustment tools. Unauthorized procession of the tools and adjusting the carbs without being an authorized service center is considered tampering with an emissions control device. The old rule was that only manufacturers, distributors, and dealers were responsible, but that changed in 2010, and now the customer is also subject to fines.
From my understanding, even though a tool is sold to an authorized MTD dealer, I can't legally use that tool to adjust the carb on say a Dolmar if I wasn't an authorized dealer for the Dolmar.
#12
M
motoman
Still waiting to hear how dealers are equipped to assure best emissions from small engines. This is not to trap or disrespect. Just to put credibility into the EPA mandates.
Now I will rave briefly about the clean air we take for granted. Several examples stand out. After living in San Diego in the 60's I moved to LA. The smog was so bad my eyes watered and my face stung for 6 months before I adjusted to the smog (also headaches) The next example is from Ankara Turkey in the 80's. A taxi ride was most unpleasant due to no smog control on the autos. That place was worse than LA. China is the latest poster child. Don't drink or touch the water and hope you can see through the smog.
You car enthusiasts who strip off cat converters should know that these devices have improved so much you are fooling yourselves to take them off. Many dyno runs have shown only a 1 to 5 hp improvement , depending upon displacement. Gas mileage improvement is quesitonable IMO.
So I believe in the technology, but would like to hear how dealers are the answer for small engines.
M
motoman
OK, the "why" man is asking you all this: Why are authorized dealers allowed to make the adjustment, but not private parties. I know the following (1) 2 strokes are notorious for emissions (2) exhaust gas anlalyzers are expensive. Do dealers have and use them? (3) A properly running 2 stroke motor will choke and not reach full power if the hi speed circuit (jet) is too lean (4) the two stroke will not idle if the lo speed circuit is too rich. I have seen a dealer take a chainsaw outside and do what the home owner does: open or close the hi side to ear and the low side to stop the chain at idle. That's what I would do. I love clean air and maintain full emission equipment on my exempt car. So pros please tell us if you have special equipment. I realize 20 million poor running 2 strokers could foul the air.
Still waiting to hear how dealers are equipped to assure best emissions from small engines. This is not to trap or disrespect. Just to put credibility into the EPA mandates.
Now I will rave briefly about the clean air we take for granted. Several examples stand out. After living in San Diego in the 60's I moved to LA. The smog was so bad my eyes watered and my face stung for 6 months before I adjusted to the smog (also headaches) The next example is from Ankara Turkey in the 80's. A taxi ride was most unpleasant due to no smog control on the autos. That place was worse than LA. China is the latest poster child. Don't drink or touch the water and hope you can see through the smog.
You car enthusiasts who strip off cat converters should know that these devices have improved so much you are fooling yourselves to take them off. Many dyno runs have shown only a 1 to 5 hp improvement , depending upon displacement. Gas mileage improvement is quesitonable IMO.
So I believe in the technology, but would like to hear how dealers are the answer for small engines.
#13
reynoldston
reynoldston
So just how do they test emissions on small engines. Now cars and trucks I understand because every thing on them is computerized. Any small engine shop I have been in I have never came across anything that had to do with emissions. Now I am not saying there isn't such a thing but something I have never seen it. Any car or truck in NY state newer then 1996 has to pass a emissions test once a year and the test go's right to the state.
#14
I
ILENGINE
I
ILENGINE
As of right now, there is no way for the dealers to ensure that the engine meets emissions requirements after we do the authorized adjustments. that will probably be coming in the future. We will probably be required to purchase the equipment to check emissions.
Notwithstanding everybody knows that horsepower sells, but what bothers me is since all this emissions stuff for small engines has come into play, engines have gotten bigger. What use to require a 3 horse engine on a push mower now sells with a 5-8 horse engine. which has a larger displacement, burns more fuel, and emits more emissions due to the larger size, and more fuel burnt. I am not sure that a 7 horse engine on a push mower really emits less noxious emissions than say a 3 horse from the 90's.
When and if they start requiring dealers to test emissions, then the dealers will also be required to undue any modifications to the engine that the owner did. A few years ago people were complaining that the push mower no longer had an adjustable throttle, and some added throttle cables so they could adjust the engine speed. those will all have to come off. People that modified the mufflers, and exhaust ports on there saws will all have to be undone.
Per the standards, an engine that has emissions control devices installed, doesn't meet tamper proof requirements if they can be bypassed in 30 minutes or less.
Notwithstanding everybody knows that horsepower sells, but what bothers me is since all this emissions stuff for small engines has come into play, engines have gotten bigger. What use to require a 3 horse engine on a push mower now sells with a 5-8 horse engine. which has a larger displacement, burns more fuel, and emits more emissions due to the larger size, and more fuel burnt. I am not sure that a 7 horse engine on a push mower really emits less noxious emissions than say a 3 horse from the 90's.
When and if they start requiring dealers to test emissions, then the dealers will also be required to undue any modifications to the engine that the owner did. A few years ago people were complaining that the push mower no longer had an adjustable throttle, and some added throttle cables so they could adjust the engine speed. those will all have to come off. People that modified the mufflers, and exhaust ports on there saws will all have to be undone.
Per the standards, an engine that has emissions control devices installed, doesn't meet tamper proof requirements if they can be bypassed in 30 minutes or less.
#15
M
motoman
M
motoman
IL ENG, Thanks. Now let's talk about the fuel injected small engines. We all know motorcycles have had FJ for years. So the few fuel injected small tractor /lawnmower engines run with or without catalytic converters ? Perhaps they are so much cleaner than carburettors they do not yet have cats. Also comment on the exclusion of 2 strokers in CA and how much cleaner the 4 strokers are, if possible.
#16
M
motoman
Remember though, the mattress-tag police do work closely with the tool cops so they could still catch you when the box is open and they are checking beds.
M
motoman
You must have a reason for saying this. Who is going to enforce this. One thing also my tool box is off limits to the tool cops. They will just have to go to a judge and get a search warrant if they want to take a look.
Remember though, the mattress-tag police do work closely with the tool cops so they could still catch you when the box is open and they are checking beds.
#17
reynoldston
I sure will keep a eye open for them when they come and check to see if my weed wacker emissions are up to date.
reynoldston
Remember though, the mattress-tag police do work closely with the tool cops so they could still catch you when the box is open and they are checking beds.
I sure will keep a eye open for them when they come and check to see if my weed wacker emissions are up to date.
#18
exotion
exotion
If dealers check emissions then I'm golden.....my equipment hasn't seen a dealer since I bought them.
#19
Fish
I wonder where I can apply for "THAT" job!!!!!!
Fish
The US EPA is in fact having uncover agents going into mower shops and attempting to purchase the adjustment tools. Unauthorized procession of the tools and adjusting the carbs without being an authorized service center is considered tampering with an emissions control device. The old rule was that only manufacturers, distributors, and dealers were responsible, but that changed in 2010, and now the customer is also subject to fines.
From my understanding, even though a tool is sold to an authorized MTD dealer, I can't legally use that tool to adjust the carb on say a Dolmar if I wasn't an authorized dealer for the Dolmar.
I wonder where I can apply for "THAT" job!!!!!!
#20
I
ILENGINE
Kohler has been running FI on some of there engines for about 10 years, and are expanding the line every year. Up until recently it has been the 26 HP and larger, but now have stand alone engines down to 19 HP. I don't think that they are running catalytic convertors yet, but that could change for 2014. 2 strokers are running synthetic mix oil, statified charge intake, and catalytic mufflers now on some if not most systems.
From what I have read the small 4 strokes like you are seeing on trimmers and blowers, are running a lot lower emissions than the compliant 2 strokes, and burning a lot less fuel. Like 30% less fuel than the same size 2 stroke.
I
ILENGINE
IL ENG, Thanks. Now let's talk about the fuel injected small engines. We all know motorcycles have had FJ for years. So the few fuel injected small tractor /lawnmower engines run with or without catalytic converters ? Perhaps they are so much cleaner than carburettors they do not yet have cats. Also comment on the exclusion of 2 strokers in CA and how much cleaner the 4 strokers are, if possible.
Kohler has been running FI on some of there engines for about 10 years, and are expanding the line every year. Up until recently it has been the 26 HP and larger, but now have stand alone engines down to 19 HP. I don't think that they are running catalytic convertors yet, but that could change for 2014. 2 strokers are running synthetic mix oil, statified charge intake, and catalytic mufflers now on some if not most systems.
From what I have read the small 4 strokes like you are seeing on trimmers and blowers, are running a lot lower emissions than the compliant 2 strokes, and burning a lot less fuel. Like 30% less fuel than the same size 2 stroke.
#21
D
DaveTN
D
DaveTN
Speaking of the EPA and "Fuel Police", the State Fuel spies go around to the farmer's livestock sales now and then and set up roadblocks and check diesel trucks to make sure they are not running "Farm Diesel" which is a pinkish/ redish looking fuel. If they find red fuel in your tank you get busted...big fines! Also the EPA will stop by and check small gas engine repair facilities as well, wanting to know where the waste oil is going, environmenal issues, drainage and god knows what else! So, it is no surprise that they are monitoring small shops for "illegal tool sales and adjustments". Very same thing they do with diesel repair shops and diesel fuel injection pump shops. If they catch a diesel shop turning up a pump for more power there is a big fine, as well as the owner who has one turned up. The more the population grows and the more complex society gets, the more rules and regulations and enforcements. I'm glad I don't have to live under the Sub-Divison Police...monitoring parking, who stays overnight and for how long, what kind of fence you can have, no tool shed on the outside of the house and so on with nauseating forced compliance! The EPA and TVA around here are getting more and more involved with farmers and home owners who have lake / river / stream access on their property. Soon I won't be able to let a cow walk to the creek and drink. Heard that farmers will have to build a diversion system to funnel water to a trough or tank and let them drink, keep them fenced off from even being too close to the creek / lake etc. That's gov't at work for you...or should I say "at work ON you!"
#22
M
motoman
M
motoman
Il Eng, Thanks for the info.
If you have never lived in an urban area you probably have always had the benefit of nature's air purifying system. But, please know pollution is scary. So, as in everything, it is possible that the EPA oversteps, but has sure cleaned up LA and places like it.
If you have never lived in an urban area you probably have always had the benefit of nature's air purifying system. But, please know pollution is scary. So, as in everything, it is possible that the EPA oversteps, but has sure cleaned up LA and places like it.
#23
P
possum
P
possum
Im still looking at a nail and trying to figure out how grinding down one side will make a D shaped socket.
#24
S
SolutionGuy
Solution: Remove both (hi & lo) carb adjustment 'needles' with any small hollow tube that will snuggly fit over the heads. Avoid damaging the needles or threads during by always holding the needles with your hands, not a device. Using a metal file, file the D-heads of the needles until flat, thus removing the D-shape. At a slow speed, carefully cut a thin slot into the flat heads of the needles using a thin ceramic or diamond Dremel cutting wheel (the cutting wheels are available at Lowe's, etc). If you don't own a Dremel tool don't fret, the cutting wheels work fine in a variable-speed drill. Using a small flat-blade screwdriver, carefully screw both adjustment needles clockwise until they tighten. Back both needles out 1-3/4 to 2 turns and start the unit using the choke. Let it run a bit to warm up, then make your adjustments.
S
SolutionGuy
"Where can I buy the "D" shaped screwdriver to adjust the carb on a new weed wacker? None of my local shops stock/offer them."
Solution: Remove both (hi & lo) carb adjustment 'needles' with any small hollow tube that will snuggly fit over the heads. Avoid damaging the needles or threads during by always holding the needles with your hands, not a device. Using a metal file, file the D-heads of the needles until flat, thus removing the D-shape. At a slow speed, carefully cut a thin slot into the flat heads of the needles using a thin ceramic or diamond Dremel cutting wheel (the cutting wheels are available at Lowe's, etc). If you don't own a Dremel tool don't fret, the cutting wheels work fine in a variable-speed drill. Using a small flat-blade screwdriver, carefully screw both adjustment needles clockwise until they tighten. Back both needles out 1-3/4 to 2 turns and start the unit using the choke. Let it run a bit to warm up, then make your adjustments.
#26
jekjr
jekjr
Somebody built one out of copper tubing. Just tap a piece down over the D shaped screw. Then bend a handle on it.....
Forget where I saw the picture of it. Supposedly it worked great.
Forget where I saw the picture of it. Supposedly it worked great.
#27
Carscw
It was on here last year. I made one after I read the post. It works good but does not last forever.
Carscw
Somebody built one out of copper tubing. Just tap a piece down over the D shaped screw. Then bend a handle on it..... Forget where I saw the picture of it. Supposedly it worked great.
It was on here last year. I made one after I read the post. It works good but does not last forever.
#28
jakewells
Here you go my friend but dont tell anyone you have them i bought two sets about 4 years ago very handy 4 Carb Adjusting Tools for Poulan Husqvarna Craftsman Walbro Zama Weedeater | eBay
jakewells
Where can I buy the "D" shaped screwdriver to adjust the carb on a new weed wacker? None of my local shops stock/offer them
Here you go my friend but dont tell anyone you have them i bought two sets about 4 years ago very handy 4 Carb Adjusting Tools for Poulan Husqvarna Craftsman Walbro Zama Weedeater | eBay