Have you ever found yourself with a lawn mower full of old, stale gas that you need to get rid of? Whether you’re preparing for winter storage, dealing with a fuel leak, or simply need to change the fuel, draining the gas from your Briggs & Stratton lawn mower is a crucial step. This process might seem daunting, but with the right guidance, it’s surprisingly simple and can save you from potential problems down the line. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps involved in draining your lawn mower fuel tank safely and efficiently.
Why Drain Your Lawn Mower Fuel?
Draining fuel from your Briggs & Stratton lawn mower is essential for several reasons:
- Preventing Fuel Degradation: Gasoline deteriorates over time, especially when exposed to air and heat. Old fuel can gum up your engine and make it difficult to start.
- Preparing for Storage: If you’re storing your mower for an extended period, draining the fuel helps prevent damage from fuel evaporation and corrosion.
- Fuel Leaks: If you suspect a fuel leak, draining the tank is a crucial step before attempting any repairs.
Steps to Draining Fuel from Your Briggs & Stratton Lawn Mower
Safety First: Before you start, remember safety is paramount. Always work in a well-ventilated area, away from any open flames or sparks. Use eye protection and wear gloves to avoid contact with gasoline.
1. Gather Your Supplies:
- Fuel container: A clean, leak-proof container specifically designed for storing gasoline.
- Shop towels: To absorb any spills or drips.
- Gloves: To protect your hands from the gasoline.
- Eye protection: Safety glasses or goggles are essential.
2. Locate the Fuel Tank:
- The fuel tank is typically located on the top or side of your Briggs & Stratton lawn mower.
- It’s usually a rectangular or round container with a cap.
3. Prepare the Area:
- Place your fuel container on a level surface, preferably away from any sources of heat or ignition.
- Spread out some shop towels around the mower to absorb any spills.
4. Locate the Fuel Shutoff Valve:
- Fuel Shutoff Valve: On most Briggs & Stratton lawn mowers, the fuel shutoff valve is located near the fuel tank, typically on the side. It’s usually a lever or knob that can be rotated to “ON” or “OFF” positions.
- Turn the Fuel Shutoff Valve to “OFF”: This prevents fuel from flowing into the carburetor.
5. Disconnect the Fuel Line (Optional):
- Fuel Line: The fuel line connects the fuel tank to the carburetor.
- Fuel Line Disconnection: For a more thorough drain, you can disconnect the fuel line from the carburetor. This is typically a simple connection, often with a clamp or quick-connect fitting. You may need to use a pair of pliers to loosen the clamp.
- Caution: Be careful not to damage the fuel line during disconnection.
6. Open the Fuel Tank Cap:
- Fuel Tank Cap: Carefully open the fuel tank cap. You may hear a slight hissing sound as pressure is released.
7. Drain the Fuel Tank:
- Fuel Drain: If your lawn mower has a fuel drain plug, locate it. The drain plug is usually located at the bottom of the fuel tank.
- Open the Drain Plug: Using a wrench, open the drain plug to allow the fuel to flow out.
- Fuel Flow: If your lawn mower doesn’t have a drain plug, you can tip the mower slightly to pour the fuel into your container.
- Avoid Spills: Be careful not to spill any gasoline.
8. Secure the Drain Plug:
- Close the Drain Plug: Once the fuel has drained, close the drain plug tightly.
- Check for Leaks: Carefully inspect the area around the drain plug for any leaks.
9. Reconnect the Fuel Line (Optional):
- Reconnection: If you disconnected the fuel line, reconnect it to the carburetor.
10. Dispose of the Fuel:
- Proper Disposal: Dispose of the drained fuel properly. Do not pour it down the drain. Many gas stations and auto parts stores have fuel disposal containers or programs.
- Follow Local Regulations: Always check your local regulations for proper disposal methods.
11. Clean Up:
- Clean Up Spills: Wipe up any spills with shop towels.
- Dispose of Towels: Dispose of the contaminated towels properly.
12. Replace the Fuel Tank Cap:
- Fuel Tank Cap: Replace the fuel tank cap securely.
13. Start Your Engine (Optional):
- Test Run: Once you’ve drained the fuel, start the mower to ensure no fuel remains in the carburetor.
Tips for Draining Fuel from a Briggs & Stratton Lawn Mower
- Warm Engine: For a more complete drain, warm up the engine slightly to help evaporate any remaining fuel.
- Fuel Additive: Consider adding a fuel stabilizer to the fresh fuel you put in the tank. This helps prevent fuel degradation during storage.
- Regular Maintenance: Regularly draining and changing the fuel helps maintain optimal engine performance and extends the life of your lawn mower.
Alternatives to Draining Fuel
- Fuel Stabilizer: If you don’t want to drain the fuel completely, consider using a fuel stabilizer. It helps prevent the fuel from going bad by slowing down the oxidation process.
- Fuel Line Disconnect: If you don’t have a drain plug, you can disconnect the fuel line at the carburetor and run the engine until it stalls. This will help consume any remaining fuel in the line and carburetor. However, be careful not to damage the fuel line.
What to Do with Old Fuel?
- Proper Disposal: Never pour gasoline down the drain or on the ground.
- Recycling Options: Many gas stations and auto parts stores have fuel disposal programs or containers where you can safely dispose of old gasoline.
- Alternative Uses: In some cases, you can use old gasoline for non-motorized purposes, such as cleaning metal parts or powering small gasoline-powered tools. However, be aware that old fuel may not perform as well as fresh fuel and could damage equipment.
Conclusion:
Draining fuel from your Briggs & Stratton lawn mower is a simple but vital maintenance task that helps prevent engine problems and extends the life of your equipment. By following these steps, you can ensure that your mower is properly prepared for storage or for a smooth transition to fresh fuel. Remember, safety should always be your priority, so work in a well-ventilated area and use appropriate safety gear. Properly disposing of the old fuel is crucial for protecting the environment. With a little effort, you can keep your Briggs & Stratton lawn mower running smoothly for years to come.
FAQs
What is the purpose of draining fuel from a Briggs & Stratton lawn mower?
Draining the fuel from your Briggs & Stratton lawn mower is essential for a few key reasons. Firstly, it prevents the fuel from going bad over time, which can lead to engine problems. Gasoline, especially when mixed with ethanol, starts to break down after a few months, forming deposits and gum that can clog fuel lines and carburetor. Secondly, draining the fuel minimizes the risk of spills or leaks during storage or transportation. This is particularly important if you’re storing the mower in an enclosed space, as gasoline fumes are flammable and hazardous.
Why is it important to drain fuel before storing a lawn mower?
It’s crucial to drain the fuel before storing your lawn mower to prevent fuel from going bad and potentially damaging the engine. When gasoline sits unused for extended periods, it degrades and forms varnish-like deposits that can clog the carburetor and fuel lines. This can lead to engine difficulties when you try to start the mower after storage. By draining the fuel, you remove this potential for damage and ensure your mower is ready to go when you need it.
How do I know when to drain fuel from my lawn mower?
While there’s no hard and fast rule, it’s generally recommended to drain the fuel from your lawn mower at least once every three months, especially if you don’t plan to use it regularly. However, if you’re storing your lawn mower for an extended period, like over the winter, it’s best to drain the fuel before putting it away. Another sign that it’s time to drain fuel is if you notice the gasoline starting to smell stale or discolored.
What tools do I need to drain fuel from a Briggs & Stratton lawn mower?
You’ll need a few simple tools to drain the fuel from your Briggs & Stratton lawn mower:
- A clean container to collect the fuel. Choose a container that’s specifically designed for gasoline or other flammable liquids.
- A wrench or socket to loosen the fuel shut-off valve. The size of the wrench or socket will vary depending on your lawn mower model.
- A rag or towel to catch any spills or drips.
- Gloves and eye protection are also recommended, especially if you’re working with older fuel.
What are the steps to drain fuel from a Briggs & Stratton lawn mower?
Here are the steps to drain fuel from a Briggs & Stratton lawn mower:
- Locate the fuel shut-off valve: This valve is usually located near the fuel tank on your mower.
- Turn off the fuel shut-off valve: This will prevent any fuel from flowing into the carburetor.
- Position the mower: Make sure your mower is positioned on a level surface.
- Place the container under the drain: Place your clean container beneath the fuel tank where the drain plug or valve is located.
- Loosen the drain plug or valve: Use the appropriate wrench or socket to loosen the drain plug or valve, allowing fuel to flow into the container.
- Tighten the drain plug or valve: Once the fuel has drained, tighten the drain plug or valve securely.
Is there a safe way to dispose of drained fuel?
Properly disposing of drained fuel is important for safety and environmental reasons. Avoid pouring it down the drain or into the ground. Instead, consider these options:
- Take it to a local hazardous waste facility: Many communities have designated hazardous waste drop-off locations where you can safely dispose of gasoline and other flammable liquids.
- Mix it with absorbent material: You can safely absorb the drained fuel by mixing it with cat litter or sawdust. The mixture can then be disposed of as regular trash.
- Use it in a small, fuel-powered engine: If you have a small, fuel-powered engine, like a generator or a small engine-powered tool, you can use the drained fuel in them. However, make sure it’s safe to use in that engine.
What are some precautions to take when draining fuel from a Briggs & Stratton lawn mower?
Always prioritize safety when working with gasoline. Here are some key precautions to keep in mind:
- Wear appropriate safety gear: Always wear gloves and eye protection when handling gasoline.
- Work in a well-ventilated area: Gasoline fumes are flammable and can be harmful to your health. Work in a well-ventilated area, such as an open garage or outdoors.
- Keep away from heat and open flames: Do not work near any sources of heat or open flames, as this could cause an explosion.
- Store the drained fuel safely: Once you’ve drained the fuel, store it safely in a sealed container away from heat and open flames.
- Never leave the drained fuel unattended: Be sure to properly dispose of the drained fuel or store it in a safe location immediately after draining.