Air Intake & Fuel Delivery
About Air Intake & Fuel Delivery
An engine needs clean air, the right amount of fuel and a throttle that responds, and this section covers every part in that chain on a UTV or ATV. Owners shop here for a clogged air filter, a fuel-starved engine after storage, a worn throttle cable, or a carburetor or fuel pump that has stopped doing its job.
The first thing to establish is whether the machine is carbureted or fuel injected, because the parts are different. Carbureted quads and older side-by-sides use Carburetors and Carburetor Parts such as repair kits and jets, while injected machines depend on Fuel Pumps & Sending Units and Fuel Injectors. On the air side, see Air Filters, Air Filter Housings and Air Hoses, Lines & Pipes. The fuel path includes Fuel Filters, Fuel Hoses, Lines & Pipes, Fuel Valves & Petcocks and Fuel Tanks, and the throttle side is Throttle, Idle, Cruise Control Cables & Linkages.
Brands in this section include Athena, Mikuni, WSM, Parts Unlimited and Dynojet. Pick your machine in the Ride Finder at the top of the page, and see why a part did not fit if you are unsure about a fit.
FAQs on UTV and ATV air intake and fuel parts
What are the signs of a clogged air or fuel filter?
A clogged air filter can cause a rich mixture, black smoke, sluggish power and poor fuel economy. A restricted fuel filter can cause hesitation, loss of power under load, hard starting or stalling. Inspect both filters first, because they are simple to check.
How can I tell whether my UTV or ATV is carbureted or fuel injected?
Check your owner's manual or model description. A carbureted engine has a carburetor with a float bowl and fuel hose and usually a fuel petcock. A fuel-injected engine has a throttle body, injectors and an electric fuel pump in the tank. Many older quads are carbureted, and many newer machines are injected.
Do I need to re-jet after changing the air filter or exhaust?
On a carbureted machine, a change in airflow can alter the mixture, so a jet kit or re-tuning may be needed. Follow the instructions from the part's maker, and ask the maker if you are unsure. Fuel-injected machines may need a fuel controller or tune.
Why does my machine run badly after sitting unused?
Fuel left in the system for months can leave gummy deposits that block small jets or passages, particularly in a carburetor. Use fresh fuel, add stabilizer before storage, and drain the carburetor bowl if your manual advises it. A cleaned or rebuilt carburetor may be needed.
How do I choose a throttle cable for my UTV or ATV?
Match the make, model and year, and check the length in the listing, such as stock length or a longer version. The end fittings and routing must also match. A cable that is too short or binds can hold the throttle open, so test full steering and suspension movement.
