The smell of freshly cut grass is a sure sign of summer. But what happens when your trusty lawn mower sputters and coughs, refusing to start? The culprit might be bad gas. That’s right, gasoline can go bad over time, leaving your mower unable to function. But don’t despair! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the telltale signs of bad gas, the dangers it poses, and how to fix the problem. By the end, you’ll be armed with the knowledge to get your lawn mower back in tip-top shape and tackle those overgrown patches with confidence.
What is Bad Gas?
Bad gas, also known as stale gasoline, is gasoline that has deteriorated due to chemical changes over time. When gasoline sits for extended periods, it absorbs moisture from the air, causing a buildup of harmful substances like gum and varnish. This buildup can clog fuel lines, carburetor jets, and other crucial parts of the engine, preventing it from starting or running smoothly.
Signs Your Lawn Mower Has Bad Gas
Here are some telltale signs that your lawn mower’s woes are stemming from bad gas:
- Engine Won’t Start: Bad gas is a common reason for a lawn mower refusing to start at all. The engine might crank but not ignite.
- Difficulty Starting: You might notice the engine taking longer than usual to start, or it sputters and coughs before finally catching.
- Rough Idling and Stalling: The engine may run erratically, idling unevenly, or stalling unexpectedly.
- Loss of Power: Your mower might experience a noticeable drop in power, struggling to cut through thick grass.
- Smell of Gasoline: You might notice a strong, pungent gasoline smell emanating from the mower, even when it’s not running.
Why You Need to Fix Bad Gas
Ignoring bad gas in your lawn mower can lead to a host of problems, including:
- Engine Damage: Deposits from bad gas can clog vital engine parts, leading to premature wear and tear, or even catastrophic engine failure.
- Fuel System Malfunctions: The fuel lines and carburetor are especially vulnerable to damage from stale gasoline, causing blockages and costly repairs.
- Environmental Concerns: Leaking or spilling old gasoline can contaminate soil and water sources, posing a risk to the environment.
How to Fix Bad Gas in Your Lawn Mower
Fixing bad gas in your lawn mower typically involves a combination of draining the old fuel and replacing it with fresh, high-quality gasoline. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Drain the Old Fuel
- Safety First: Always wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from spills and fumes.
- Locate the Fuel Tank: Identify the fuel tank on your lawn mower, usually located on the side or top.
- Turn Off the Fuel Valve: If your mower has a fuel valve, turn it to the “off” position.
- Position for Drainage: Place a suitable container (such as a gas can or jar) under the fuel tank drain valve or outlet.
- Open the Drain Valve: Carefully open the drain valve or outlet to allow the old fuel to drain into the container.
- Repeat for the Carburetor: If your mower has a separate carburetor drain, repeat the draining process.
Step 2: Flush the Fuel System
- Prepare a Fuel Mixture: Combine fresh gasoline with a fuel stabilizer to prevent future deterioration. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate ratio.
- Pour the Mixture: Pour the fresh fuel mixture into the fuel tank.
- Run the Engine: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to flush out the old fuel remaining in the system.
Step 3: Clean the Carburetor (If Necessary)
- Inspect the Carburetor: If the engine is still running poorly, the carburetor might require cleaning.
- Remove the Carburetor: Consult your mower’s manual for instructions on removing the carburetor.
- Clean with a Carburetor Cleaner: Use a carburetor cleaner specifically designed for gasoline engines to remove any deposits or blockages.
- Reinstall the Carburetor: Once clean, reassemble the carburetor and reinstall it on the engine.
Step 4: Test the Engine
- Start the Engine: After cleaning the carburetor (if necessary), start the engine and let it run for several minutes.
- Monitor for Improvement: Observe the engine performance for any signs of improvement. If the engine runs smoothly without stalling or sputtering, the bad gas problem has been resolved.
- If Problems Persist: If you’re still experiencing engine issues, consult a qualified mechanic or refer to your mower’s manual for troubleshooting guidance.
Preventing Bad Gas in the Future
- Use Fuel Stabilizer: Always add a fuel stabilizer to your gasoline to prevent deterioration and extend its shelf life.
- Store Fuel Properly: Keep gasoline in airtight containers in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
- Use Fresh Gasoline: Use fresh gasoline whenever possible, especially if you’re storing your mower for extended periods.
- Empty the Tank Before Storage: For long-term storage, drain the fuel tank completely and run the engine until it stops to clear any remaining fuel.
Conclusion
Dealing with bad gas in your lawn mower can be a frustrating experience, but it’s a common problem with an easy solution. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can drain the old fuel, flush the system, and get your mower back to its prime. Remember to use fresh fuel and fuel stabilizer to prevent bad gas from recurring, ensuring your lawn mower is always ready to tackle those overgrown patches with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bad gas and why does it happen in a lawn mower?
Bad gas, also known as stale or degraded gas, occurs when gasoline sits for a long time, leading to a breakdown of its chemical composition. The process of oxidation and evaporation causes the fuel to lose its volatility, becoming less efficient and potentially damaging to your lawn mower engine. This can happen due to improper storage, leaving gas in the tank for extended periods, or using old gas from last season.
Signs of bad gas include difficulty starting, sputtering, or stalling, poor engine performance, and black smoke from the exhaust. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage to your lawn mower.
How can I tell if I have bad gas in my lawn mower?
There are several indicators that can signal bad gas in your lawn mower. One prominent sign is a difficulty starting the engine. If the engine struggles to turn over or sputters and dies, it could be a symptom of degraded fuel. Another indication is uneven or erratic engine performance, including stalling, sputtering, or a lack of power. Finally, if you notice black smoke coming from the exhaust, it’s a strong sign that the fuel is not burning properly due to its deterioration.
While these signs are suggestive of bad gas, it’s crucial to remember that other issues could be present. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s advisable to inspect your lawn mower’s air filter and spark plug to rule out other potential causes before jumping to conclusions about bad gas.
How do I get rid of bad gas from my lawn mower?
Getting rid of bad gas from your lawn mower is a simple process that involves draining the fuel tank and replacing it with fresh gasoline. You can drain the tank through the fuel line or by removing the tank entirely. Before draining, be sure to take appropriate safety precautions, such as working in a well-ventilated area and using a container to collect the fuel.
After draining the tank, you should also clean the carburetor to remove any residue or varnish that may have built up from the bad gas. This can be done by removing the carburetor and cleaning it with a carburetor cleaning kit. Once the tank is drained and the carburetor is clean, you can fill the tank with fresh gas and your lawn mower should be good to go.
How do I prevent bad gas from forming in my lawn mower?
Preventing bad gas in your lawn mower starts with proper fuel management. Firstly, use fresh, high-quality gasoline, avoiding older gas from last season. Secondly, store your lawn mower properly during the off-season. If you don’t plan on using it for a while, drain the tank completely to prevent fuel from sitting and degrading. Additionally, consider using a fuel stabilizer additive that helps prevent the breakdown of gasoline, extending its shelf life.
By following these simple steps, you can minimize the risk of bad gas forming in your lawn mower and ensure a smooth and reliable performance whenever you need it.
How often should I change the gas in my lawn mower?
The frequency of gas changes in your lawn mower depends on several factors, including the type of gasoline used, storage conditions, and how often you use the mower. As a general rule, it’s recommended to change the gas every 30 days if you use your lawn mower regularly. If you store your mower for extended periods, it’s best to drain the tank completely and refill it with fresh gas before each use.
For optimal performance and longevity of your lawn mower, it’s wise to err on the side of caution and change the gas more frequently, especially during hot weather or humid conditions, which can accelerate fuel degradation.
What happens if I don’t get rid of bad gas?
Leaving bad gas in your lawn mower can lead to various issues, negatively impacting its performance and potentially causing damage. The degraded fuel can clog the carburetor, resulting in engine sputtering, stalling, and difficulty starting. It can also cause the fuel lines and other engine parts to become gummed up, hindering fuel delivery and causing mechanical problems.
Furthermore, bad gas can lead to decreased engine power and increased fuel consumption, affecting your lawn mower’s overall efficiency. In severe cases, it could even damage the engine, leading to costly repairs. Therefore, it’s essential to address bad gas promptly to maintain your lawn mower’s optimal performance and prevent potential problems.
Is it okay to mix old and new gas in my lawn mower?
While it might seem tempting to use a blend of old and new gasoline, it’s not recommended. Mixing old and new gas can actually exacerbate the issue of fuel degradation, as the older gas can negatively affect the stability of the fresh gasoline. This can lead to similar problems as using old gas alone, such as difficulty starting, engine sputtering, and poor performance.
Therefore, it’s always best to use fresh, high-quality gasoline in your lawn mower. If you find yourself with old gas in your tank, it’s more advisable to drain it and replace it with fresh fuel, ensuring optimal performance and avoiding potential engine issues.