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When servicing older vehicles, the question of whether you should choose a new, refurbished, or rebuilt component often comes to mind. Most commonly, this question concerns turbochargers, carburetors, or engines, but it also applies to carburetors.
In this guide, we’ll explain all you need to know in case you’re shopping for a replacement carburetor, and help you decide which of the three options makes sense for you both in terms of costs and performance.
Difference Between Refurbished vs New vs Rebuilt Carburetor
Before we dive any further into the topic, it is crucial to explain the differences between refurbished, new, and rebuilt.
Refurbished Carburetor
A refurbished / remanufactured carburetor is the least expensive out of the three options, as the process of refurbishing involves replacing worn-out parts on an already existing unit. A properly refurbished carburetor also has to be cleaned and thoroughly inspected in order to ensure that all issues are addressed and repaired. It is important to note that only parts showing excessive wear are replaced. This means that parts of refurbished carburetors might show some unequal wear. In many cases, if a carburetor manufacturer offers refurbished carburetors, they were originally purchased by a customer, but returned because the carburetor was installed out-of-the-box and wasn't adjusted or component changes made to tune it to their particular engine. To take care of the customer, the returned carburetor was accepted, and refurbished, typically after a short period of use.
New Carburetor
There is little to explain with a new carburetor. In this condition, a carburetor is brand new and has never been used before. Because cars that use carburetors are now decades old, you are unlikely to be able to source out an original part (which is where rebuilt carburetors come into play) but you should still be able to find an aftermarket one that will be OEM equivalent. In terms of price, new carburetors are typically the most expensive. This applies not only to carburetors but car components in general.
Rebuilt Carburetor
Simply put, a rebuilt carburetor is similar to a refurbished one, except that the process of reconditioning it goes into much more detail. A rebuilt carburetor is completely disassembled and thoroughly cleaned and all components showing wear or damage are replaced in order to achieve a comparable condition to a brand-new unit. Skilled car enthusiasts often choose to rebuild carburetors on their own with a kit such as one shown below.
Cost Analysis of Refurbished vs New vs Rebuilt Carburetor
In terms of cost, a new carburetor will typically set you back the most but it is justified by the relatively high quality and reliability of it. Even in case the carburetor gets damaged, it should be covered by the warranty that new parts come with.
Opting for a refurbished carburetor is a more economical solution that comes with both upsides and downsides, as described above. However, when considering the long term, the cost advantage of a refurbished carburetor might dissipate. Arguably, the reliability of a brand-new unit will be higher than that of a refurbished one. For this reason, you can expect the refurbished part to not last as long.
Finally, in the case of a rebuilt carburetor, the cost analysis depends on whether you buy a unit from a professional or rebuild it yourself. Professionally rebuilt carburetors are usually one of the most expensive options, as you still keep the factory unit that your make and model was equipped with out of the factory but also has the reliability and functionality of a brand new carburetor, which involves major work. On the other hand, if you decide to rebuild a carburetor yourself, it can actually be a fairly sensible and affordable way of repairing it, if you have the time for it. Lastly, keep in mind that cars are worth more with original carburetors that are rebuilt, instead of aftermarket parts.
What to Look for When Buying a Carburetor
Before making a decision on whether to choose a refurbished, new, or rebuilt carburetor for your vehicle, it's crucial to know what factors to consider. Here are some key points to keep in mind when purchasing a carburetor:
- Compatibility – Ensure that the carburetor you choose is compatible with your specific make and model. Carburetors come in various sizes and configurations, and using the wrong one can lead to engine performance issues.
- Quality – Consider the quality and reliability of the carburetor. New carburetors are generally more reliable due to their unused condition, but high-quality refurbished and professionally rebuilt units can also provide dependable performance. Look for reputable manufacturers and sellers.
- Warranty – Check the warranty offered with the carburetor. New carburetors often come with longer and more comprehensive warranties, providing peace of mind in case of defects or malfunctions. Refurbished and rebuilt units may have shorter warranty periods or none at all.
- Budget – New carburetors tend to be more expensive, while refurbished and self-rebuilt options can be more budget-friendly. Consider both the upfront cost and the long-term cost of maintenance and replacement.
- DIY potential – Assess your level of mechanical expertise. Rebuilding a carburetor yourself can be a cost-effective option if you have the skills, tools, and time to do it correctly. However, professionally rebuilt or new carburetors are suitable for those who prefer a hassle-free solution.
- Resale value – Keep in mind the potential impact on the resale value of your vehicle. Original carburetors that are professionally rebuilt can often enhance the overall value of your car if you plan to sell it in the future.
Considering these factors will help you make an informed decision when choosing the right carburetor for your vehicle.
How to Choose the Right Option for You
It all boils down to the question ‘Is it better to rebuild a carburetor or buy a new one?’. The answer really depends on you. If you want the simplest and cheapest solution, buying a refurbished carburetor is a solid choice. If you want a more reliable option with a more extensive warranty, a brand new unit will be the best option. However, if you are manually skilled, and don’t mind the extra effort, it may be best to rebuild your old carburetor. By doing so, you can ensure that it is repaired with high-quality parts and that all issues are fixed. What’s more, cars with original carburetors have a higher resale value on the market.
Finally, if you decide to rebuild your carburetor, you can find a wide range of tools and carburetor rebuild kits at JEGS. Even if you decide to go the easier route and buy a brand new part, JEGS has a vast range of high-quality performance carburetors.
