The smell of freshly cut grass is a welcome sign of summer, but it can quickly turn sour if your lawn mower sputters and coughs to life. Old gasoline is the culprit behind many of these engine woes, causing issues like power loss, difficulty starting, and even engine damage. Fortunately, draining old gas from your lawn mower is a relatively simple process that can save you time, money, and frustration.
This guide will walk you through the steps involved in draining old gas from your lawn mower, equipping you with the knowledge to ensure your lawnmower runs smoothly and efficiently. We’ll cover everything from identifying old gas to safely draining it, and finally, storing your mower properly to prevent future gas problems.
A Quick Overview:
Draining old gas is essential to keep your lawn mower running properly. It involves removing the old fuel from the fuel tank and carburetor, and in some cases, the fuel lines. By removing the old gas, you eliminate the risk of engine damage, ensure smooth operation, and extend the life of your lawn mower.
Step 1: Identify Old Gasoline
Before you start draining, you need to know if you even need to! Here’s how to identify if you have old gas in your mower:
1. The Smell Test:
The first sign of old gas is the smell. If the fuel has a strong, pungent odor, it’s likely past its prime. Fresh gasoline has a mild, almost sweet scent.
2. The Visual Inspection:
Gasoline degrades over time, and its appearance changes. Old gas can turn yellow, brown, or even cloudy. Fresh gasoline should be clear and transparent.
3. The Age Check:
The general rule of thumb is to replace gasoline every 3-6 months. If it’s been longer than that, it’s best to drain it.
Step 2: Gather Your Supplies
Before you start draining, you’ll need a few basic supplies:
- A clean container: This will be used to collect the old gasoline. Make sure the container is properly labeled and stored safely.
- A siphon pump: This is the easiest way to drain gasoline from the tank. You can purchase a siphon pump at most hardware or automotive stores.
- A wrench or socket: This will be used to loosen the fuel line if necessary.
- Gloves and safety goggles: Always wear protective gear when handling gasoline.
Step 3: Choose a Safe Location
Now, find a safe, well-ventilated area to work. Avoid working near open flames or sparks. It’s best to work on a paved surface to contain any spills.
Step 4: Disconnect the Fuel Line
1. Locate the fuel line: The fuel line is a rubber hose that connects the fuel tank to the carburetor.
2. Loosen the fuel line: Use a wrench or socket to loosen the nut connecting the fuel line to the carburetor.
3. Disconnect the fuel line: Carefully disconnect the fuel line from the carburetor.
4. Position the fuel line: Position the disconnected end of the fuel line over the container you’ll use to collect the old gas.
5. Allow the gas to drain: The old gas will begin to flow out of the fuel line into the container.
Note: If your mower has a fuel valve, make sure to turn it off before disconnecting the fuel line.
Step 5: Drain the Fuel Tank
1. Remove the gas cap: Carefully remove the gas cap from the fuel tank.
2. Use a siphon pump: Insert the siphon pump into the fuel tank and follow the instructions provided with the pump. It will draw the old gas from the tank and deposit it into the container.
3. Drain the carburetor: The carburetor may also contain some old gas. To drain the carburetor, remove the drain plug located at the bottom of the carburetor.
4. Allow to drain completely: Allow all the fuel to drain into the container.
Note: If you don’t have a siphon pump, you can use a turkey baster or a small funnel to manually drain the fuel tank.
Step 6: Flush the Fuel System
Once the fuel tank and carburetor are drained, it’s a good idea to flush the fuel system to remove any remaining residue.
1. Prepare a flushing solution: Mix a solution of equal parts gasoline and fuel stabilizer.
2. Pour the solution into the fuel tank: Pour the solution into the fuel tank and run the engine for a few minutes. This will help to clear any remaining fuel residue from the fuel lines and carburetor.
3. Drain the solution: Drain the flushing solution from the tank and repeat the process if necessary.
Step 7: Reconnect the Fuel Line
1. Clean the fuel line connections: Use a clean rag to wipe down the fuel line connections.
2. Reconnect the fuel line: Reconnect the fuel line to the carburetor. Tighten the nut securely.
3. Reinstall the fuel cap: Reinstall the fuel cap on the fuel tank.
Step 8: Add Fresh Gasoline
Now that your lawn mower’s fuel system is clean and drained, add fresh gasoline to the tank.
1. Add fuel stabilizer: Always add fuel stabilizer to your gasoline. It helps to prevent fuel degradation and extend the life of your gasoline.
2. Fill the tank: Fill the fuel tank to the recommended level.
3. Start the engine: Start the engine and allow it to run for a few minutes to ensure the fresh fuel is flowing through the system.
Step 9: Storing Your Lawn Mower
Proper storage is crucial to prevent future fuel issues. Here’s how to store your lawn mower properly:
1. Drain the fuel tank: If you’re storing your lawn mower for an extended period, it’s a good idea to drain the fuel tank.
2. Add fuel stabilizer: If you’re leaving a small amount of fuel in the tank, add fuel stabilizer to prevent it from degrading.
3. Run the engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to ensure the fuel stabilizer is distributed throughout the fuel system.
4. Store in a cool, dry place: Store your lawn mower in a cool, dry place that is protected from the elements.
Conclusion
Draining old gas from your lawn mower is a vital step in keeping your engine running smoothly and extending its lifespan. By following these steps, you can prevent costly repairs and ensure your lawn mower is ready to tackle any mowing job. Remember to prioritize safety when working with gasoline and follow all manufacturer instructions.
FAQ
1. Why should I drain old gas from my lawnmower?
Old gas can cause a number of problems for your lawnmower engine. First, the fuel can degrade and form varnish or gum, which can clog the fuel lines and carburetor. This can lead to poor performance, stalling, or even a complete engine failure. Second, old gas can also attract moisture, which can lead to corrosion and other damage to the engine components. Finally, old gas can be less volatile, making it harder to ignite and start the engine. Draining your lawnmower’s gas tank and filling it with fresh fuel can prevent all these problems.
2. How often should I drain the gas from my lawnmower?
Generally, it’s recommended to drain the gas from your lawnmower at least once a year, even if you haven’t used it in that time. This is especially important if you live in a humid climate or if you store your mower in an unheated garage. However, if you use your mower frequently, you may not need to drain the gas as often. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and drain the gas more often.
3. What type of container should I use to drain the gas?
When draining the gas from your lawnmower, it’s important to use a container that is specifically designed for storing gasoline. These containers are typically made of metal or plastic and have a tight-fitting lid to prevent spills and evaporation. Avoid using glass containers, as they can break and cause injury. Remember to properly label the container and store it in a safe and well-ventilated area.
4. What should I do with the old gas after I drain it?
Once you have drained the old gas from your lawnmower, you should properly dispose of it. Do not pour it down the drain, as it can contaminate the water supply. Instead, take it to a local hazardous waste facility or recycling center. These facilities are equipped to handle gasoline safely and environmentally responsibly.
5. Can I use a siphon to drain the gas?
Yes, you can use a siphon to drain the gas from your lawnmower. A siphon is a simple tool that uses gravity to transfer liquid from one container to another. Make sure the siphon is long enough to reach the bottom of the gas tank and that it is made of a material that is compatible with gasoline. Always wear safety glasses and gloves when using a siphon, and be careful not to spill any gasoline.
6. What if I don’t have a siphon?
If you don’t have a siphon, you can use a small pump to drain the gas from your lawnmower. There are several types of pumps that are designed specifically for gasoline, so be sure to choose one that is appropriate for the job. Alternatively, you can drain the gas by tilting the mower on its side and using a small container to catch the fuel as it flows out.
7. What are some tips for draining the gas safely?
When draining the gas from your lawnmower, it is important to take safety precautions. First, always work in a well-ventilated area and avoid any open flames or sparks. Second, wear safety glasses and gloves to protect your eyes and skin from any spills. Third, make sure the mower is turned off and cooled down before you start draining the gas. Finally, be sure to store the drained gasoline properly in a designated container, away from heat and direct sunlight.