Thanks, esshup. I thought there was the potential for screwing up by just examining the carb, glad I asked. I think if I get the gas tank clean, then I will just test run the pump. The carb is either clean or dirty. Strong believer in, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."
Thanks, Al. I just did the trick of sharp gravel and hot water, shaken vigorously. That polished up about 50% of the bottom of the tank. I am doing a vinegar soak now, to remove stubborn rust. If there is varnish "protecting" the rust, then I may have to go with an acetone soak to get the varnish off before tackling the rust again.
I also appreciate the preventative advice. Paying a little bit extra to keep a modern small engine working is a small price to pay to extend the life. I cannot believe how many trees I have felled with my little Echo chainsaw running at full throttle. Other than good fluid maintenance, I just keep sharpening or repairing chains as the only mechanical "wear" problem. Incredible!
One more question after working on my trash pump. There are several rusty linkages, springs, and things like the idle adjustment screw that should NOT be rusty.
Do you guys know of a better oil-based "protectant" to spray on that type of metal that will protect it during the working year?
I generally spray on a little WD-40, but that is not designed for long term metal protection.
