How Different Types of Carburetors Are Used

Carburetors are used for mixing the correct percentage of air and fuel to make the mixture combustible. Carburetors come in a few different types but all serve the same purpose. The different types are determined by how many barrels the carburetor has or if it is a side draft or down draft.

The size or type of engine you have deterines how many barrels your carburetor needs.

Carburetors come in either a one, two or four barrel type. Most engines use a two barrel carburetor. Two barrel carburetors come in two types. The first type is when both of the barrels work at the same time. The second type is when only one barrel works for up to moderate speeds and the second barrel is only needed for faster accelerations. Very small engines use a one barrel carburetor because they do not need as much power and do not have the space for a larger one. Four barrel carburetors are only used in high performance vehicles that will require more power. For the most part, only two of the barrels are used. The only time the other two barrels are used is when more horsepower is needed. An example of a high performance engine is the engine on a race car.

What is the difference between side and down draft carburetors?

For years, all carburetors were down draft carburetors. This type is mounted on the top of the engine and uses gravity to move the air and fuel. Air is allowed to flow in from the top of the engine and carburetor. The barrels on a down draft carburetor are larger than those on a side draft carburetors. Side draft carburetors are used for newer cars with smaller engine compartments. These carburetors allow air to come in horizontally.

Learn about the different types of carburetors and how the engine determines what type of carburetor is needed.