The smell of gasoline can be a powerful reminder of summer days spent tending to your lawn. But what happens when the season ends, and you’re faced with the task of storing your John Deere riding lawn mower? Leaving gas in the tank can lead to problems like gumming up the carburetor or damaging the engine. That’s where draining the gas comes in. This article will guide you through the process, step-by-step, so you can store your mower safely and prevent potential issues.
Overview: Draining gas from your John Deere riding lawn mower is a simple process that involves a few essential steps. You’ll need to locate the fuel shut-off valve, connect a siphon hose, and collect the drained gasoline in a safe container. We’ll discuss the importance of safety precautions, proper disposal of gasoline, and alternative methods for draining fuel.
Understanding the Importance of Draining Gas
Fuel left in your John Deere riding lawn mower over the winter months can degrade and form a gummy residue. This residue can clog the carburetor, preventing the engine from starting properly, or even causing irreparable damage. Draining the gas ensures that your engine remains clean and protected, maximizing its lifespan and preventing costly repairs in the future.
Safety First: Precautions for Draining Gas
Before you begin draining the gas, it’s crucial to prioritize safety:
1. Safety Gear:
- Wear gloves: To protect your skin from gasoline contact.
- Eye protection: Wear safety glasses to prevent splashes.
- Ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
2. Fire Safety:
- No smoking: Avoid smoking or open flames near the mower or the gasoline.
- Grounding: If you’re using a siphon pump, ensure it’s grounded to prevent static electricity buildup.
- Spark arrestor: Make sure your lawn mower’s spark arrestor is in good working order.
Step-by-Step Guide to Draining Gas:
1. Locate the Fuel Shut-Off Valve:
- Identify the valve: Your John Deere riding lawn mower’s fuel shut-off valve is usually located near the fuel tank. It may be a lever, a knob, or a push-button.
- Turn off the fuel: Turn the valve to the “off” position.
2. Prepare for Draining:
- Safe location: Choose a safe and level area, away from any ignition sources.
- Collection container: Have a clean, leak-proof container ready to collect the drained gasoline. A metal gas can is recommended for safety.
- Siphon hose: Obtain a siphon hose, preferably one designed for gasoline.
3. Drain the Gas:
- Attach the siphon hose: Insert the siphon hose into the fuel tank opening.
- Prime the hose: Start the siphon by sucking on the hose end (use a siphon pump for easier operation).
- Collect the gasoline: Allow the gas to drain into the container until the tank is empty.
- Dispose of gasoline properly: Never pour gasoline down drains or onto the ground. Dispose of it at a designated hazardous waste collection site.
4. Clean and Store:
- Clean the siphon hose: Rinse the siphon hose with clean water and store it in a safe place.
- Clean the area: Wipe up any spilled gasoline with a cloth or paper towels.
- Store the mower: Store your John Deere riding lawn mower in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from any heat sources.
Alternative Methods for Draining Gas:
While using a siphon hose is the most common method, there are alternative ways to drain gas:
1. Using a Drain Valve:
- Check for a drain valve: Some John Deere models have a dedicated drain valve on the fuel tank.
- Open the drain valve: Turn the drain valve to release the gas into the container.
- Close the drain valve: After draining the tank, close the drain valve securely.
2. Removing the Fuel Line:
- Locate the fuel line: The fuel line connects the fuel tank to the carburetor.
- Disconnect the fuel line: Carefully disconnect the fuel line from the carburetor.
- Drain the fuel: Hold the fuel line over the container and allow the fuel to drain out.
Preventing Future Gas Degradation:
- Use fuel stabilizer: Add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank to prevent fuel deterioration and gumming.
- Run the engine until empty: Before storing your mower, run the engine until the gas tank is nearly empty.
Final Thoughts:
Draining the gas from your John Deere riding lawn mower is an essential step in ensuring its longevity and performance. By following the safety precautions and steps outlined in this article, you can safely remove the gas, prevent engine problems, and enjoy a smooth start next spring. Remember to dispose of the gasoline properly and use fuel stabilizer to prevent future fuel deterioration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need to drain gas from my John Deere Riding Lawn Mower?
There are a few reasons why you might need to drain the gas from your John Deere riding lawn mower. If you’re storing the mower for an extended period, it’s best to drain the gas to prevent it from going bad. Old gas can gum up the carburetor and fuel lines, leading to engine problems. You may also need to drain the gas if you’re making repairs to the fuel system or if you’re transporting the mower.
Draining the gas also helps to prevent fires, as the gas can ignite if it’s not properly stored. Finally, draining the gas allows you to start fresh with a full tank of fresh fuel, ensuring optimal performance for your mower.
What tools do I need to drain gas from my John Deere Riding Lawn Mower?
To drain gas from your John Deere riding lawn mower, you’ll need a few basic tools. These include a fuel-safe container, a wrench to loosen the drain plug, a rag to clean up spills, and a pair of gloves to protect your hands from the gas. It’s also a good idea to have a funnel to make the pouring process easier and prevent spills.
Having a fuel-safe container ensures that you can safely dispose of the old gasoline. The wrench and rag will help you remove and clean the drain plug. Gloves are essential for protecting your hands from the gas, which can irritate your skin. By preparing with these tools, you can drain the gas safely and efficiently.
How do I drain gas from my John Deere Riding Lawn Mower?
To drain the gas from your John Deere riding lawn mower, first, locate the drain plug on the fuel tank. It’s usually located on the bottom of the tank, but consult your mower’s manual for the exact location. Place the fuel-safe container under the drain plug, then use the wrench to loosen and remove the plug.
Let the gas drain completely into the container. Once the gas has stopped flowing, you can tighten the drain plug and dispose of the old gas properly. Remember to clean up any spills with the rag.
Where can I dispose of the old gas?
Disposing of old gas properly is crucial to protecting the environment. Never pour old gas down the drain or into the ground. This can contaminate water supplies and harm wildlife. Instead, contact your local waste disposal authority for information on where to dispose of old gasoline safely.
They may have a designated collection point for hazardous materials or offer a specific disposal program. Following their guidelines will ensure that you dispose of the old gas responsibly and minimize its impact on the environment.
Is it necessary to drain the gas if I am using the mower frequently?
While draining the gas is recommended for long-term storage, it’s not strictly necessary if you use your mower frequently. However, it’s still a good practice to replace the gas every 30 days, especially if the fuel is old or you haven’t used the mower in a while.
This will ensure that fresh fuel is always in the tank and prevent the fuel from going bad and causing engine problems. Fresh gas also helps to maintain the performance and efficiency of your lawn mower.
Can I use the old gas for other purposes?
It is not recommended to use old gasoline for other purposes. While some people might think that it can be used for cleaning purposes, it is not advisable. Old gas can be unstable and lead to unexpected reactions, potentially causing harm to you or damaging the object you are trying to clean.
Additionally, it is not safe to use old gasoline in other machines or vehicles as it can cause damage to their engines. It’s always best to discard old gasoline properly and use fresh fuel for all your machinery.
What should I do if I accidentally spill gas?
If you accidentally spill gas, it is important to act quickly and safely. First, clear the area of any potential ignition sources, such as open flames, spark plugs, or electrical appliances. Then, cover the spill with a non-flammable material like sand or kitty litter. This will help to absorb the gasoline and prevent it from spreading.
Once the spill is covered, you can carefully dispose of the absorbent material in a sealed container. Finally, thoroughly clean the area with a soap solution to remove any remaining residue. It’s important to remember to wear gloves and protective eyewear while cleaning up the spill.