The warm weather is finally here, and it’s time to get your lawn mower out of storage and ready to tackle those overgrown patches. But before you fire it up, you might be wondering about the importance of adding stabilizer to your gas tank.
Adding stabilizer to your lawn mower’s fuel is crucial for long-term storage, preventing fuel deterioration and ensuring a smooth start next time you need it. This article will guide you through the process of adding stabilizer to your lawn mower, answering questions like: What is stabilizer, why is it important, how much do you need, and how do you use it properly?
In short, the amount of stabilizer you need depends on the size of your fuel tank and the type of stabilizer you choose. Generally, you’ll use a 1:100 ratio (1 ounce of stabilizer per 100 ounces of fuel) for gas-powered lawnmowers. This ratio should be followed for most gas-powered outdoor equipment like chainsaws, weed trimmers, and snow blowers.
Why Do You Need Stabilizer?
Gasoline, left unused, can start to break down over time. This process, known as “going stale”, is caused by the volatile components in gasoline evaporating. This leaves behind a sticky residue that can clog your carburetor and fuel lines, making it difficult to start your mower and potentially damaging the engine.
Here’s a breakdown of the issues you might face if you don’t use stabilizer:
What Happens to Old Gasoline?
- Fuel Line Clogging: The gum and varnish that form from stale gasoline can clog your fuel lines, restricting fuel flow and hindering engine performance.
- Carburetor Issues: The carburetor is particularly vulnerable to fuel deterioration. Clogged jets and passages can lead to poor engine performance, difficulty starting, and even engine failure.
- Fuel Tank Corrosion: Old gasoline can become acidic and corrosive, damaging your fuel tank and affecting its longevity.
- Difficult Starting: The most common issue you’ll face is a stubborn lawn mower that struggles to start.
How to Choose the Right Stabilizer
With various stabilizer products available, choosing the right one for your needs can seem overwhelming. Here are some key factors to consider:
Types of Stabilizers:
- Fuel System Cleaners: These stabilizers not only prevent fuel deterioration but also clean your fuel system, removing any existing deposits. They’re ideal for use if you’ve been using your mower with stale fuel.
- Basic Stabilizers: These primarily prevent fuel breakdown and offer long-term storage protection. They’re suitable for routine maintenance and keeping your fuel fresh.
Choosing the Correct Formula:
- Gasohol: Most gas-powered engines run on gasohol (gasoline blended with ethanol). Look for a stabilizer specifically designed for gasohol as it is formulated to work effectively with the ethanol content.
- Seasonal Protection: If you live in a colder climate, consider a stabilizer that offers winter protection. This will prevent fuel from freezing and protect your engine during the winter months.
How Much Stabilizer To Use
The amount of stabilizer you need depends on the size of your fuel tank. Here’s a simple calculation:
- 1:100 Ratio: This ratio is commonly recommended for most lawn mowers. It means you use 1 ounce of stabilizer for every 100 ounces of fuel.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: Check the fuel tank capacity on your lawn mower’s owner’s manual or the fuel tank itself.
- Calculating Stabilizer Amount: Divide the fuel tank capacity (in ounces) by 100. This will give you the number of ounces of stabilizer you need.
Example: If your fuel tank has a 1-gallon capacity (128 ounces), you’ll need 1.28 ounces of stabilizer.
Where Can You Find Stabilizer?
You can find fuel stabilizers at most automotive stores, hardware stores, and online retailers.
How to Add Stabilizer to Your Lawn Mower
Adding stabilizer to your lawn mower is a straightforward process:
- Fuel Tank Capacity: Before adding any stabilizer, check your fuel tank capacity to ensure you have the correct amount of stabilizer.
- Add Stabilizer: Pour the calculated amount of stabilizer into the fuel tank.
- Mix the Fuel: Start your lawn mower for a few minutes to ensure the stabilizer is mixed well with the fuel.
- Run the Engine: Run your lawn mower for a few minutes to help distribute the stabilizer throughout the fuel system.
- Storage: Store your lawn mower in a dry, cool place.
Tips for Using Stabilizer Effectively
- Check the Expiration Date: Make sure your stabilizer is fresh and hasn’t expired.
- Use the Right Type: Choose a stabilizer specifically designed for gasohol if you are using gasoline blended with ethanol.
- Follow the Instructions: Always follow the instructions on the stabilizer bottle for the most effective results.
- Keep a Spare: It’s a good idea to have a bottle of stabilizer on hand for future use.
- Don’t Overfill: Overfilling the fuel tank can cause fuel spillage and potentially damage your mower.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stabilizer
- Do I need to use stabilizer if I’m going to use my lawn mower within a few weeks? If you’re going to use your lawn mower within a few weeks, you can likely skip using stabilizer. However, if you’re storing your lawn mower for longer periods, it’s crucial to add stabilizer.
- Can I add stabilizer to old fuel? You can try adding stabilizer to old fuel, but it may not be as effective as using fresh fuel.
- Can I use different types of stabilizers together? It’s generally not recommended to use different types of stabilizers together. Stick to one type for optimal results.
- Can I add stabilizer to my lawnmower’s gas tank after I’ve already filled it with gas? Yes, you can add stabilizer to a full fuel tank. Just be sure to mix the fuel thoroughly by running the engine for a few minutes.
Conclusion
Adding stabilizer to your lawn mower’s fuel is essential for protecting it during storage and ensuring it starts smoothly the next time you need it. By understanding the reasons for using stabilizer, choosing the right product, and following the proper steps for adding it, you can keep your lawn mower running smoothly for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why do I need to add stabilizer to my lawn mower?
Stabilizer is essential for protecting the fuel in your lawn mower from going bad. Gasoline is a volatile substance that can degrade over time, even when stored in a sealed container. This degradation leads to the formation of gums and varnishes, which can clog your lawn mower’s carburetor and fuel lines, causing engine problems. By adding stabilizer, you prevent this degradation and ensure your mower starts smoothly the next time you use it.
Adding stabilizer also helps to prevent the build-up of moisture in the fuel tank. Moisture can lead to corrosion and rust within the fuel system, causing further damage. A good quality stabilizer will help to absorb moisture and protect your lawn mower’s fuel system from damage.
2. How often should I add stabilizer to my lawn mower?
The frequency of adding stabilizer depends on the type of fuel you are using and the climate you live in. For regular gasoline, it is recommended to add stabilizer every 30 days, especially if you live in a humid environment. If you use ethanol-blended gasoline, you should add stabilizer every 14 days. If you store your lawn mower for extended periods, you should always add stabilizer before storage.
It’s important to note that adding stabilizer too often is not harmful, but it’s not necessary either. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific lawn mower model.
3. What type of stabilizer should I use?
There are several types of stabilizers available, but it’s important to choose one specifically designed for gasoline engines. Avoid using general-purpose stabilizers, as these may not be suitable for your lawn mower. Most gasoline stabilizers are compatible with ethanol-blended gasoline, but it’s always a good idea to check the product label.
Choose a well-known brand that offers a good quality stabilizer. Look for a stabilizer that has a long shelf life and is easy to use. When in doubt, consult your lawn mower’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations on the type of stabilizer to use.
4. How much stabilizer should I add to my lawn mower?
The amount of stabilizer you need to add depends on the size of your fuel tank. Most stabilizer bottles come with specific instructions on how much to add per gallon of gasoline. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, as adding too much stabilizer can potentially harm your lawn mower.
A general rule of thumb is to add one ounce of stabilizer per gallon of gasoline. However, always check the product label for the correct dosage for your specific type of stabilizer and the size of your fuel tank.
5. Can I use old gasoline with stabilizer?
While adding stabilizer to old gasoline can extend its lifespan, it’s not always the best solution. If the gasoline is more than a few months old, it may be better to discard it and replace it with fresh gasoline. This is because stabilizer cannot completely reverse the degradation process that already occurred in old gasoline.
Using old gasoline with stabilizer may lead to poor performance and even damage your lawn mower’s engine. It’s always best to use fresh gasoline, which is generally available at gas stations.
6. Can I run my lawn mower with stabilizer in the fuel?
Yes, you can run your lawn mower with stabilizer in the fuel. It will not harm your engine and will actually help to protect it. The stabilizer will prevent the fuel from degrading while you are using the lawn mower, ensuring smooth performance.
However, it’s important to note that using stabilizer does not make gasoline last forever. Eventually, you will need to replace the fuel with fresh gasoline, especially if you are not using your lawn mower frequently.
7. Can I add stabilizer to a full fuel tank?
It’s generally not recommended to add stabilizer to a full fuel tank. Adding stabilizer to a full tank can create a potential for overflow, especially if you are using a concentrated stabilizer. It’s best to add stabilizer to a partially filled tank, leaving some space for the stabilizer to mix with the gasoline properly.
If you have a full tank and need to add stabilizer, it’s best to partially empty the tank before adding the stabilizer. This will ensure that the stabilizer mixes properly with the fuel and avoids any potential overflow issues.