Have you ever found yourself staring at a full gas tank in your Craftsman riding lawn mower, knowing you won’t be using it for a while? You might be tempted to just leave it as is, but that’s not the best idea. Over time, gasoline can degrade, causing problems for your mower’s engine. This article will guide you through the process of safely draining the gas from your Craftsman riding mower, ensuring your machine is stored properly and ready for action when you need it.
Why drain the gas?
Draining your Craftsman riding lawn mower’s gas tank is essential for long-term storage. Gasoline deteriorates over time, forming varnish and gum that can clog fuel lines, injectors, and other critical engine components. This can lead to engine problems, making it difficult to start your mower and even causing damage. By draining the tank, you’re preventing these issues and ensuring your mower remains in optimal condition.
Safety First: Precautions Before You Begin
Before you start draining your Craftsman riding mower’s gas tank, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Gasoline is flammable, and you need to take the necessary steps to prevent accidents.
1. Choose a Safe Environment
- Outdoor Location: Choose a well-ventilated outdoor space, preferably away from any open flames or heat sources. This will help dissipate any fumes that may be released during the process.
- Ground Cover: Place a tarp or absorbent material under the mower to catch any spills or leaks. This prevents contamination of the surrounding area.
2. Wear Protective Gear
- Gloves: Wear heavy-duty gloves to protect your skin from contact with gasoline.
- Eye Protection: Use safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from splashes or fumes.
3. Prepare Your Tools
- Gas Can: Have a clean, properly sealed gas can ready to collect the drained fuel.
- Hose: A siphon hose is the ideal tool for draining the gas. If you don’t have one, you can use a small length of clear tubing.
- Rag: Keep a clean rag handy to wipe up any spills.
Step-by-Step Guide to Draining Gas
Now that you’ve taken the necessary safety precautions, let’s get down to the actual draining process.
1. Locate the Fuel Tank and Shut Off Valve
Find the gas tank on your Craftsman riding lawn mower. Most models have a gas cap easily accessible on the side of the mower, typically near the handlebars. Look for a fuel shutoff valve, which is usually located near the gas tank. It might be a lever or a knob that controls the flow of fuel.
2. Turn Off the Fuel Shutoff Valve
Before attempting to drain the tank, make sure to turn off the fuel shutoff valve. This stops the flow of fuel from the tank to the engine, preventing any spills or leaks during the draining process.
3. Prepare the Siphon Hose
If you’re using a siphon hose, attach the hose to the gas can. Make sure the gas can is placed lower than the gas tank of your mower. The siphon hose will work based on gravity, allowing the gas to flow from the tank to the can.
4. Start the Siphon Process
If you’re using a siphon hose, you can start the siphon by placing the end of the hose in the gas tank and sucking on the other end to create suction. This will initiate the flow of gas into the gas can.
5. Use a Tubing Method (If Necessary)
If you don’t have a siphon hose, you can use a small piece of clear tubing. Insert one end of the tubing into the gas tank and the other end into the gas can. Then, use your mouth to suck on the tubing, creating suction to start the flow of gasoline.
Important: Avoid swallowing any gasoline. This method is less efficient than using a siphon hose, and it may require you to repeat the suction process several times.
6. Drain the Tank Carefully
Once the siphon or tubing is in place, allow the gas to flow from the tank into the gas can. Monitor the process closely, and stop when the tank is nearly empty.
7. Remove Excess Gas
After draining the tank, you might find a small amount of gas remaining at the bottom. You can use a rag to soak up this remaining gas. Be careful not to leave any residue in the tank.
8. Tighten the Gas Cap
Once the tank is drained, ensure you securely tighten the gas cap. This prevents moisture or debris from entering the tank during storage.
9. Dispose of Gas Safely
It’s crucial to dispose of the drained gasoline safely. Never pour gasoline down the drain or into the ground. Check with your local municipality or waste disposal facility for proper disposal methods. They might have designated locations for gasoline disposal or recommend a licensed waste hauler.
Additional Considerations
- Storing Gasoline: If you’re storing the drained gas, remember that gasoline can degrade over time. It’s best to use it up within a few months or use a gasoline stabilizer to extend its shelf life.
- Inspecting the Gas Tank: After draining the tank, consider cleaning it thoroughly to remove any remaining residue or debris. This ensures a clean, healthy environment for your mower’s fuel system.
Conclusion
Draining the gas from your Craftsman riding lawn mower is a simple yet crucial step in proper maintenance. By following these instructions, you’ll be able to safely remove the gasoline from your mower, prevent engine problems, and ensure its longevity. Remember to always prioritize safety, use the correct tools, and dispose of the gasoline responsibly. By doing so, you’ll be taking care of your valuable investment and enjoying the benefits of a well-maintained machine for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why should I drain the gas from my Craftsman riding mower?
Draining the gas from your Craftsman riding mower is important for several reasons. First, it prevents the gas from going bad, which can damage your engine. Gasoline deteriorates over time, forming varnish and gum that can clog fuel lines and carburetors. Second, it reduces the risk of a fire hazard, especially if you store the mower in a garage or shed. Lastly, it makes it easier to transport and store the mower, as you won’t need to worry about spills.
2. When should I drain the gas from my Craftsman riding mower?
It is recommended to drain the gas from your Craftsman riding mower before long-term storage, such as during the winter months. This will help to prevent the gas from going bad and damaging your engine. You should also drain the gas if you are planning to transport the mower, as it will reduce the risk of a spill.
3. What tools will I need to drain the gas from my Craftsman riding mower?
You will need a few basic tools to drain the gas from your Craftsman riding mower. These include a fuel container, a funnel, a wrench, a rag, and safety glasses. The fuel container should be specifically designed for gasoline, and it should be large enough to hold the gas from your mower’s tank. The funnel will help you to pour the gas into the container without spilling it. The wrench will be used to loosen the drain plug on your mower’s tank.
4. Where is the gas drain plug on my Craftsman riding mower?
The gas drain plug is typically located on the bottom of the gas tank, near the rear of the mower. It may be covered by a small cap or plug. You can usually identify it by looking for a small, threaded hole or a metal plug.
5. How do I drain the gas from my Craftsman riding mower?
To drain the gas from your Craftsman riding mower, first, make sure the engine is cool and the ignition is off. Then, place the fuel container under the drain plug, and use the wrench to loosen the plug. Be careful not to over-tighten the plug when you are done, as this could damage the threads. Once the gas has drained out, tighten the drain plug and discard the gas properly.
6. What should I do with the drained gas?
Once you have drained the gas from your Craftsman riding mower, it is important to dispose of it properly. Do not pour the gas down the drain or into the ground. Instead, take it to a local recycling center or gas station that accepts used gas.
7. How do I clean the gas tank after draining the gas?
After draining the gas from your Craftsman riding mower, you should clean the gas tank to remove any remaining debris. You can use a small amount of gasoline to clean the tank, or you can use a commercial tank cleaner. Make sure to rinse the tank thoroughly with water and allow it to dry completely before reinstalling it.