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How do you identify a Honda carburetor?

To identify a Honda carburetor, you can look for several key features that distinguish it from other types of carburetors. Honda carburetors are commonly found on small engines, such as those used in lawn mowers, trimmers, and other outdoor power equipment.


Identifying Features of a Honda Carburetor



  • Shape and Size: Honda carburetors are typically small and compact, with a rounded or oval shape. They are often smaller than carburetors found on larger engines.

  • Fuel Inlet: Honda carburetors have a fuel inlet located on the side of the carburetor body, rather than on the top or bottom.

  • Choke Lever: Honda carburetors have a choke lever that is used to enrich the fuel-air mixture during cold starts or when the engine is cold.

  • Adjustment Screws: Honda carburetors typically have two adjustment screws: one for the idle speed and one for the air-fuel mixture.

  • Manufacturer's Logo: Many Honda carburetors will have the Honda logo or "Honda" printed on the carburetor body.


By looking for these distinctive features, you can often identify a Honda carburetor and distinguish it from other types of carburetors used on small engines.


Importance of Proper Carburetor Identification


Correctly identifying the carburetor on your Honda-powered equipment is important for several reasons:



  • Replacement Parts: Knowing the specific carburetor model will ensure you can find the correct replacement parts, such as jets, gaskets, and diaphragms, when servicing or rebuilding the carburetor.

  • Tuning and Adjustment: Different carburetor models may require slightly different tuning and adjustment procedures to achieve optimal engine performance. Proper identification helps you follow the correct steps.

  • Compatibility: Using the wrong carburetor on a Honda engine can lead to poor engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and even engine damage. Proper identification ensures compatibility.


By taking the time to carefully inspect and identify the carburetor on your Honda-powered equipment, you can ensure that any necessary maintenance or repairs are performed correctly and efficiently.

How to identify a Honda carburetor?


To identify a Honda carburetor, locate a stamped number on the carburetor body, typically on the spine between the throttle and top cover, or on a metal tag. For smaller engines, find the engine model and serial number, which is stamped on the engine block itself, and use this information to find the correct carburetor part number online. 
You can watch this video to learn how to identify a Honda carburetor by looking for a stamped number: 56sTHEMOWERMEDIC1YouTube · Sep 28, 2021
For motorcycles

  • Find the stamped number: Look for a number stamped directly onto the metal of the carburetor body, often found on the "spine" between the throttle side and the top cover. 
  • Use the number for comparison: If you have multiple carburetors, compare the numbers to see if they are the same or different, as this can indicate variations in the model. 
  • Look for specific features: For some models, like the Honda CB350, visual cues like the style of the head drain screw and idle mixture screw can help identify the carburetor type. 

For small engines (lawnmowers, tillers, etc.)
  • Locate the engine's model and serial number: This information is stamped on the engine itself, usually on a sticker or directly on the metal case. The model number will start with "G". 
  • Use the numbers to find the carburetor part number: Once you have the engine model and serial number, you can search online for the specific carburetor part number for your engine. For example, some models may use part number 16100-Z0L-023. 
  • Consult online resources: Websites that sell Honda engine parts or provide technical support often have search tools to find the correct carburetor based on your engine's model and serial number. 



How to identify Honda GX160?


GX160. Today we're going to identify the serial number on the Honda. GX160 UT2 QX2 located here you can find your model type of your engine.



How do I tell what kind of carburetor I have?


To identify your carburetor, look for a unique identification number stamped or cast on a metal tag on the body, or sometimes on the choke tower or side of the air horn. This number, sometimes called the "list number," will serve as a "VIN" for your carburetor and can be used to find its specifications. Avoid using abrasive materials that could remove these markings.
 
This video explains how to identify your carburetor by looking for specific numbers and letters on its side: 59sAMG ProYouTube · Apr 24, 2025
What to look for

  • Identification number: The most crucial piece of information is the unique number stamped directly into the metal or on a separate metal tag. 
  • Casting numbers: Don't confuse the identification number with casting numbers, which are typically raised or cast into the part and won't help you find specific parts or kits, say Holley. 
  • Location: The number can be in several places, so check the following:
    • On a metal tag attached to the carburetor. 
    • Stamped into the front of the choke tower, to the right of the vent tube (especially on Holley carbs). 
    • On the side of the air horn. 
    • Stamped into the metal on the body, such as on the side of the bowl cover or the edge of the flange. 

This video demonstrates how to find the list number and date code on a Holley carburetor: 59sHolleyYouTube · Jan 5, 2017
How to use the number
  • Once you have the number, you can use it to look up your carburetor's specifications online or in a manual. 
  • This information is critical for ordering the correct rebuild kit or replacement parts. 
  • If you can't find the number, try using your engine's model and serial number to find the correct carburetor, or contact a carburetor specialist. 

You can watch this video to learn how to identify different types of carburetors, including the Rochester Quadrajet: 1mGuaranteed CarburetorsYouTube · Aug 8, 2023



How do I tell what Honda engine I have?


To identify your Honda engine, check the model number sticker (often on the side, top, or front) and look for a stamped code on the engine block. For vehicles, the eighth digit of the VIN will also specify the engine type and size.
 
This video demonstrates how to find the model number on a Honda engine: 54sSmall Engine WarehouseYouTube · Apr 29, 2025
For small engines (e.g., lawnmowers, generators)

  • Find the model number sticker: Look for a sticker with the model number on the engine itself. It often starts with a "G" and may appear on the side, top, or front. 
  • Locate the stamped code: Find where the engine model and type code are stamped into the side of the engine block, usually near the serial number. The type code can be up to four characters, with asterisks filling in for missing ones (e.g., "QX**"). 
  • Check for specific locations: Depending on the model, specific locations include:
    • Under the recoil assembly: Common on GX and GXV series engines. 
    • Underneath the fuel tank: Often on the left side when facing the shaft. 
    • Near the oil filter: For GX360 models, look to the right of the oil filter. 
    • Near the fan housing: For GX610/620/670, look to the right of the recoil assembly. 

You can watch this video to see how to find the engine code on a Honda GX160: 34smachinesnmetalYouTube · Mar 4, 2025
For vehicles (e.g., cars, motorcycles)
  • Use the VIN: Find the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on your car's dashboard or door jamb. The eighth character of the VIN is an engine code that identifies the engine's size and type. 
  • Check the engine block: Look for an engine code stamped directly onto the engine block itself. This is separate from the VIN and may be necessary for ordering parts. 

This video explains how to find the engine code on a Honda vehicle: 19sCaleb YamYouTube · Jan 25, 2014
General tips
  • If you can't find the information: Use a parts lookup tool on the Honda website or from a parts dealer. You can usually narrow down the engine by providing the vehicle's year, make, and model, or by providing information about the equipment the engine is on. 
  • For generators: The model name is often printed on a sticker near the case, fuel tank, or control panel. These model names typically start with "E". 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.