There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of a freshly mowed lawn, but that feeling can quickly turn to frustration when your lawn mower sputters, coughs, and refuses to cooperate. If you’re experiencing these woes, the culprit might be bad gas. Old, stale gasoline can wreak havoc on your lawn mower’s engine, leading to a variety of problems.
This article will guide you through the telltale signs of bad gas in your lawn mower, explain why it happens, and equip you with the knowledge and steps to fix it. We’ll explore solutions ranging from simple fuel treatments to a complete fuel system overhaul. By the end, you’ll be able to identify the problem, troubleshoot it effectively, and get your lawn mower back in tip-top shape for a flawless lawn.
What are the Signs of Bad Gas in a Lawn Mower?
The symptoms of bad gas in a lawn mower can be varied and subtle, but they generally fall into these categories:
- Difficulty Starting: The most common symptom is a lawn mower that struggles to start, or takes several pulls before finally firing up.
- Rough Running: The engine may run unevenly, sputter, or even stall, especially at higher speeds.
- Loss of Power: You might notice a decrease in the mower’s overall power, making it struggle to cut through thick grass.
- Backfiring or Popping: The engine might backfire or pop, emitting a loud noise, especially when accelerating or decelerating.
- Fuel Odor: If the gas has gone bad, you might smell a pungent, acidic odor coming from the fuel tank.
Why Does Gas Go Bad?
Gasoline is a volatile substance that deteriorates over time due to a process called oxidation. When exposed to air, gasoline reacts with oxygen, forming gum, varnish, and other deposits that can clog fuel lines and injectors. These deposits prevent the fuel from flowing smoothly, hindering the engine’s performance.
Factors that Accelerate Gas Degradation:
- Ethanol Content: Modern gasoline often contains ethanol, which attracts moisture. This moisture can further accelerate oxidation, leading to faster deterioration.
- Storage Conditions: Storing gasoline in a hot environment or in a container that’s not completely sealed can speed up the oxidation process.
- Age: Gasoline typically has a shelf life of 3-6 months, but it can deteriorate faster in hot or humid conditions.
How to Fix a Lawn Mower with Bad Gas: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you suspect bad gas is the culprit behind your lawn mower’s problems, there are several steps you can take to remedy the situation.
Step 1: Drain the Old Gas
The first step is to remove the old, contaminated gasoline from the fuel tank.
Here’s how:
- Safety First: Before you start draining the gas, make sure the lawn mower is cool and turned off. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from spills.
- Locate the Fuel Tank: Find the fuel tank on your lawn mower. It’s usually located near the engine or on the side of the mower.
- Open the Fuel Cap: Carefully unscrew the fuel cap.
- Drain the Gas: Tilt the mower slightly to allow the gas to flow out. You can use a funnel to direct the gas into a suitable container for disposal.
- Dispose of the Gas Properly: Do not pour old gasoline down the drain or onto the ground. Dispose of it responsibly by taking it to a local recycling center or hazardous waste collection facility.
Step 2: Clean the Fuel System
Once you’ve drained the bad gas, it’s important to clean the fuel system to remove any remaining deposits.
Here are a few options:
- Fuel System Cleaner: You can add a fuel system cleaner to the fresh gas to help break down and remove any deposits in the fuel lines, carburetor, and other components. Follow the instructions on the product label carefully.
- Manual Cleaning: For a more thorough cleaning, you can manually remove the carburetor and clean it using a carburetor cleaning kit. This involves disassembling the carburetor, cleaning each part with a carburetor cleaning solution, and reassembling it carefully.
Step 3: Replace the Fuel Filter
The fuel filter helps prevent debris and contaminants from entering the fuel system. If your lawn mower has a fuel filter, it’s a good idea to replace it as part of the cleaning process.
Step 4: Refuel with Fresh Gas
After cleaning the fuel system, refill the fuel tank with fresh, high-octane gasoline. Avoid using gas that’s been sitting around for a long time.
Step 5: Prime the Engine
Depending on your lawn mower model, you may need to prime the engine after refilling the tank. This involves pumping the primer bulb several times to send fuel to the carburetor.
Step 6: Test Run Your Lawn Mower
Once you’ve completed these steps, start your lawn mower and see if it runs smoothly. If it still has problems, you may need to address other issues, such as a clogged air filter or a faulty spark plug.
Tips for Preventing Bad Gas in the Future
- Use Fresh Gas: Always use fresh gasoline for your lawn mower, and don’t let it sit in the tank for extended periods.
- Stabilize the Gas: If you need to store gasoline for a longer time, consider adding a fuel stabilizer to prevent it from going bad.
- Empty the Tank: Before storing your lawn mower for the winter, empty the fuel tank and run the engine until it’s out of gas. This will prevent any old gas from sitting in the tank over the winter.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve followed these steps and your lawn mower still isn’t running properly, it’s time to consult a professional. A mechanic can diagnose and repair more complex issues, such as a faulty carburetor, fuel pump, or other engine problems.
Conclusion
Bad gas can be a frustrating issue, but by understanding the symptoms, the causes, and the solutions, you can often tackle the problem yourself. By following these steps, you can drain the bad gas, clean the fuel system, and get your lawn mower back in working order. And by adopting preventative measures, you can avoid this issue in the future and enjoy a smooth-running lawn mower for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs of bad gas in a lawn mower?
If you’ve noticed your lawnmower running rough, sputtering, or having trouble starting, bad gas could be the culprit. Other signs include a lack of power, difficulty maintaining a consistent speed, and the engine dying unexpectedly.
You might also see a build-up of gunk or residue in the fuel lines or carburetor. If you smell a sour or acidic odor coming from the gas tank, that’s a clear indication of stale fuel.
What are the causes of bad gas?
Gasoline deteriorates over time, especially when exposed to air and moisture. This process, called “going bad,” creates a mixture of gums and varnish that can clog fuel lines, the carburetor, and other critical engine parts.
The degradation process is accelerated by factors like high temperatures, sunlight exposure, and the presence of ethanol, which is a common additive in gasoline.
How long does gasoline last in a lawnmower?
The lifespan of gasoline in a lawnmower depends on various factors, such as the quality of the fuel, storage conditions, and the presence of additives. Generally, gasoline can last for about 3-6 months if stored properly in a sealed container.
However, it’s best to use up any fuel within a month or two, especially during hot weather. Using old gas can lead to significant engine damage and costly repairs.
What are the steps to fix bad gas in a lawn mower?
Fixing bad gas involves draining and replacing the old fuel with fresh, high-quality gasoline. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Drain the old gas: Safely drain the gas tank and discard it properly.
- Clean the carburetor: If you suspect a buildup of residue, clean the carburetor using a carburetor cleaning kit.
- Add new gas: Fill the gas tank with fresh, high-octane gasoline.
- Run the engine: Start the lawnmower and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new fuel.
Should I use gas stabilizer?
Yes, using a gas stabilizer can significantly extend the lifespan of gasoline in your lawnmower. These additives help prevent the formation of gums and varnish, keeping your fuel fresh and preventing engine damage.
Always read the product instructions carefully and follow the recommended dosage.
Can you prevent bad gas in a lawnmower?
You can prevent bad gas by following these simple tips:
- Use high-quality gasoline: Choose fresh, high-octane gasoline from reputable gas stations.
- Store fuel properly: Keep gasoline in a sealed container in a cool, dry location.
- Add a stabilizer: Use a gas stabilizer to prevent deterioration and extend the fuel’s lifespan.
- Use fuel within a reasonable timeframe: Aim to use up gasoline within a month or two.
Can I use old gas for other purposes?
It’s generally not recommended to use old gasoline for other purposes, such as powering small engines or cleaning purposes. Old gasoline is likely to contain harmful contaminants that can damage equipment or leave behind a residue.
The safest option is to properly dispose of old gasoline by taking it to a local recycling center or hazardous waste facility.