Spring has sprung, the sun is shining, and your lawn needs a trim. But when you go to fire up your trusty lawn mower, it sputters, coughs, and refuses to cooperate. Sound familiar? The culprit might be old gas sitting in your mower’s tank. This article will guide you through the process of identifying old gas, understanding its dangers, and safely draining and replacing it with fresh fuel, getting your mower back in top shape for the season.
Overview:
Old gas, left sitting in a lawn mower’s fuel tank, can cause a number of problems, including engine stalling, difficulty starting, and even damage to the carburetor. Fortunately, fixing the issue is relatively straightforward. You’ll need to drain the old gas, clean the carburetor, and refill the tank with fresh fuel. Let’s delve into the steps.
Identifying Old Gas
The first step is to determine if your lawn mower has old gas. Here’s how to tell:
1. Visual Inspection:
- Color: Fresh gasoline is typically a clear amber or yellow. Old gas, on the other hand, can become discolored, turning a darker brown or even reddish-brown.
- Smell: Fresh gas has a distinct, strong, and somewhat sweet smell. Old gas will have a much weaker smell, and may even smell like varnish or paint thinner.
- Sediment: If you see any sediment or debris at the bottom of the gas tank, it’s a clear sign of old gas.
2. Engine Performance:
- Difficulty Starting: If your lawn mower takes longer than usual to start, or struggles to stay running, it could be due to old gas.
- Stalling: An engine that sputters and stalls intermittently could indicate a fuel issue related to old gas.
- Loss of Power: If your mower feels sluggish and lacks its usual power, old gas might be hindering its performance.
3. Age:
- Fuel Shelf Life: Gas is a volatile substance, and its quality deteriorates over time. Generally, gasoline should be used within 30-90 days of purchase. Older gas will lose its volatility and can create problems for your mower’s engine.
Why Old Gas is Bad for Your Lawn Mower
Old gas can cause a range of problems, some more serious than others:
1. Carburetor Issues:
- Gum and Varnish: Old gas forms gum and varnish deposits inside the carburetor, blocking fuel lines and hindering fuel flow.
- Clogging: This can cause the engine to stall, sputter, or refuse to start altogether.
2. Engine Damage:
- Fuel System Issues: Old gas can damage fuel lines, fuel filters, and other parts of the fuel system.
- Spark Plug Fouling: The deposits from old gas can foul spark plugs, preventing them from igniting the fuel properly.
3. Environmental Concerns:
- Fuel Spills: Old gas can be harder to handle and more prone to spills, which can be harmful to the environment.
Draining Old Gas: The Solution
Now that you’ve identified old gas, it’s time to remove it and replace it with fresh fuel. Here’s how to do it safely:
1. Gather Your Supplies:
- Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from any splashes.
- Gloves: Prevent skin contact with gasoline.
- Drain Pan: Capture the old gas for proper disposal.
- Funnel: Make transferring the gas easier.
- Rag: Clean up any spills.
- New Gasoline: Use fresh, high-quality gasoline designed for small engines.
2. Find the Drain Valve:
- Locate the Tank: Your lawn mower’s gas tank is usually located on the side or top of the machine.
- Identify the Drain Valve: It’s typically a small, round valve with a knob or lever. It may be located near the bottom of the tank.
3. Drain the Old Gas:
- Safety First: Work in a well-ventilated area away from open flames.
- Prepare for Drainage: Place the drain pan under the drain valve.
- Open the Valve: Turn the knob or lever on the drain valve to open it. The old gas will flow into the drain pan.
- Caution: Gas can be flammable, so take care not to spill it.
4. Clean the Tank (Optional):
- Remove the Tank: If possible, remove the gas tank from the mower for a more thorough cleaning.
- Wash with Soap and Water: Rinse the tank with warm, soapy water to remove any residual gas or debris.
- Dry Thoroughly: Make sure the tank is completely dry before reinstalling it.
5. Refuel with Fresh Gas:
- Use a Funnel: Pour the new gasoline into the tank using a funnel to avoid spills.
- Don’t Overfill: Leave some space at the top of the tank to allow for expansion.
Cleaning the Carburetor
Once you’ve drained the old gas, you should also clean the carburetor. This will remove any gum, varnish, or debris that may have accumulated from the old fuel.
1. Accessing the Carburetor:
- Locate the Carburetor: It’s usually located on the side of the engine, connected to the fuel lines.
- Refer to Your Owner’s Manual: Consult your lawn mower’s manual for specific instructions on how to access and remove the carburetor.
2. Disassembly:
- Remove the Carburetor: Carefully detach the carburetor from the engine, taking note of the position of any hoses or wires.
- Disassemble Carefully: Using a screwdriver, remove the screws holding the carburetor together.
- Clean Each Part: Clean each component of the carburetor using a carburetor cleaner spray. Use a soft brush or cloth to remove any stubborn deposits.
3. Reassembly:
- Clean and Inspect: Make sure all parts are clean and free of debris before reassembling.
- Reinstall the Carburetor: Reassemble the carburetor, making sure all parts are correctly aligned and tightened securely.
4. Restart the Engine:
- Reconnect Fuel Lines: Connect the fuel lines to the carburetor.
- Start the Engine: Attempt to start the engine. If it doesn’t start, you may need to prime the carburetor by pumping the fuel primer bulb.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your lawn mower still isn’t running properly after draining the old gas and cleaning the carburetor, there may be other issues at play. Here are some additional troubleshooting tips:
- Spark Plug: Inspect the spark plug for damage or fouling. Replace it if necessary.
- Fuel Filter: Check the fuel filter for blockage or debris. Replace it if needed.
- Air Filter: A clogged air filter can restrict airflow and hinder engine performance. Clean or replace it.
- Engine Oil: Ensure the engine has the correct level of oil.
Preventive Measures
To avoid the hassle of dealing with old gas in the future, consider these preventive measures:
- Use Fresh Fuel: Always use fresh, high-quality gasoline designed for small engines.
- Store Properly: If you’re not going to use your lawn mower for an extended period, drain the gas tank and store the mower in a dry, well-ventilated place.
- Fuel Stabilizer: Add a fuel stabilizer to your gas tank to help prevent the formation of gum and varnish.
- Regular Maintenance: Regularly inspect and clean the carburetor, fuel filter, and spark plug to keep your mower running smoothly.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can easily fix old gas in your lawn mower and get it back in tip-top shape for the season. Remember, regular maintenance and using fresh fuel are crucial for preventing future issues. With a little effort, you can keep your mower running smoothly and enjoy a beautifully manicured lawn all summer long!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I tell if I have old gas in my lawnmower?
A: If you’ve left gasoline in your lawnmower for more than 3 months, it’s likely old and could be causing your engine problems. Look for signs like difficulty starting, sputtering, or stalling. The gas may also have changed color to a yellowish-brown hue, indicating that it’s no longer fresh. While some slight discoloration is normal, a significant change suggests that the gas has deteriorated.
Q: What happens when gasoline goes bad?
A: When gasoline sits for an extended period, it evaporates and the volatile components that make it combustible degrade. The remaining gas becomes more viscous and gummy, clogging fuel lines and hindering the flow to the engine. This can cause various problems, including difficulty starting, poor performance, and even engine damage.
Q: Can I just add fresh gasoline to old gasoline in my lawnmower?
A: It’s not recommended to simply add fresh gasoline to old fuel in your lawnmower. Mixing old and new gasoline can exacerbate the problem by creating a less stable fuel mixture. The resulting combination can be more prone to gumming up fuel lines and causing engine issues.
Q: How do I drain the old gasoline from my lawnmower?
A: To drain the old gasoline from your lawnmower, start by removing the spark plug to prevent accidental ignition. Next, tilt the mower to allow the gas to flow out of the tank. Use a siphon pump or a long hose to draw out the fuel. Alternatively, you can drain the gas by removing the fuel line at the tank. It’s important to do this in a well-ventilated area and dispose of the old gas properly according to local regulations.
Q: Should I use a fuel stabilizer?
A: Yes, adding a fuel stabilizer to your gasoline can help prevent it from going bad. Fuel stabilizers are additives that slow down the degradation process, extending the lifespan of gasoline. Use a stabilizer specifically designed for small engines, following the instructions on the product label.
Q: What should I do with the old gasoline?
A: Old gasoline should be disposed of properly. It’s not advisable to pour it down the drain or on the ground. Check with your local waste management facility for proper disposal methods. Some stations offer gas recycling programs, while others may have hazardous waste collection events.
Q: How often should I change the gasoline in my lawnmower?
A: It’s best practice to change the gasoline in your lawnmower every 3 months or before the end of the season. This minimizes the risk of fuel degradation and ensures that your mower starts and runs smoothly when you need it.