Are you tired of dealing with a lawn mower that sputters and coughs? Is your engine struggling to start? The culprit might be old, stale gas in your lawn mower’s tank. Over time, gasoline can degrade and lose its potency, leading to performance issues and even engine damage. The solution? A thorough flush of your lawn mower’s gas tank. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, covering everything from the necessary tools to safety precautions.
Overview
Flushing your lawn mower’s gas tank is a simple maintenance procedure that can significantly improve your mower’s performance and longevity. It involves removing the old gas, cleaning the tank, and filling it with fresh fuel. By following the steps outlined below, you can effectively clean your gas tank and ensure your lawn mower runs smoothly for years to come.
Why Flush Your Lawn Mower Gas Tank?
Old gasoline can wreak havoc on your lawn mower’s engine. Here’s why you should consider flushing your gas tank regularly:
1. Deterioration and Loss of Potency:
Gasoline is a volatile substance that starts to degrade after just a few months. This deterioration leads to:
- Reduced Combustion: Old gas burns less efficiently, leading to a decrease in engine power and potential misfires.
- Gummy Deposits: As gasoline ages, it forms gummy residues that can clog fuel lines, carburetor jets, and even damage the fuel pump.
- Water Contamination: Water can condense in the tank over time, further degrading the fuel and causing corrosion.
2. Engine Problems:
The consequences of using old gas can be significant:
- Difficult Starting: A clogged fuel system can make it difficult to start your lawn mower.
- Rough Running: Stale fuel can cause the engine to run rough, sputter, and even stall.
- Engine Damage: Severe gumming and corrosion can lead to permanent engine damage, requiring costly repairs.
3. Long-Term Benefits:
Flushing your gas tank regularly offers several long-term benefits:
- Improved Performance: Fresh gas ensures optimal combustion and smooth engine operation.
- Extended Lifespan: Regular maintenance helps prevent premature engine wear and tear.
- Reduced Repair Costs: By addressing potential issues before they escalate, you can avoid costly repairs.
How to Flush Your Lawn Mower Gas Tank: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you understand the importance of flushing your lawn mower’s gas tank, let’s dive into the process:
1. Safety First:
- Wear Eye Protection: Always wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from potential splashes.
- Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Gasoline fumes are harmful, so ensure proper ventilation.
- Avoid Sparks: Keep flames and sparks away from the work area.
2. Gather the Necessary Tools:
- Empty Gas Container: A clean, sealable container for the old gas.
- Shop Towels: For cleaning up spills and wiping down parts.
- Funnel: To transfer gas into the container.
- Gasoline: Fresh, high-octane gasoline for refilling the tank.
- Cleaning Solution: A fuel system cleaner (optional).
- Rubber Gloves: To protect your hands from the fuel.
3. Drain the Old Gas:
- Locate the Fuel Tank: Find the gas tank on your lawn mower. It’s typically located near the engine.
- Open the Fuel Cap: Remove the cap carefully.
- Locate the Drain Plug: Many gas tanks have a drain plug at the bottom.
- Drain the Old Gas: If there’s a drain plug, unscrew it and let the gas drain into the empty container. If there’s no drain plug, carefully siphon the gas using a siphon pump or a hose.
Note: If you have a carburetor with a bowl: Open the drain screw at the bottom of the bowl and collect the gas in your container.
4. Clean the Gas Tank:
- Remove the Tank: If possible, remove the gas tank from the mower for easier cleaning.
- Rinse the Tank: Thoroughly rinse the tank with a cleaning solution or a mixture of water and dish soap.
- Shake and Drain: Shake the tank vigorously to loosen any remaining debris and then drain it.
- Dry the Tank: Dry the tank completely with a clean shop towel.
Note: If your tank has a sediment bowl: Empty and clean it as well.
5. Reinstall and Refuel:
- Reinstall the Tank: Carefully reinstall the gas tank back onto the mower.
- Refuel with Fresh Gas: Fill the tank with fresh, high-octane gasoline.
- Check for Leaks: Check for any leaks around the cap and connections.
6. Start and Run Your Mower:
- Start the Engine: Try to start the engine. It may take a few attempts for the new gas to reach the carburetor.
- Monitor for Performance: Observe the engine for any sputtering or misfires. If you notice any issues, you may need to further clean the fuel system or check for other problems.
7. Dispose of Old Gas Properly:
- Never Pour Old Gas Down the Drain: This is harmful to the environment.
- Check with Your Local Regulations: Contact your local waste management agency to find out proper disposal options.
Tips for Keeping Your Lawn Mower Fuel Fresh:
- Use Fuel Stabilizer: Adding fuel stabilizer to your gas tank can help prevent deterioration and extend the shelf life of gasoline.
- Store Fuel Properly: Store extra gasoline in airtight containers in a cool, dry place.
- Use Gas Within 30 Days: Try to use gasoline within 30 days of purchase for optimal performance.
Conclusion:
Flushing your lawn mower’s gas tank is a simple but essential maintenance task. By removing old, stale gas and cleaning the tank, you can significantly improve your mower’s performance, extend its lifespan, and potentially avoid costly repairs. Remember to prioritize safety by wearing proper gear and working in a well-ventilated area. With a little effort, you can keep your lawn mower running smoothly and efficiently for years to come.
FAQs
Why should I flush my lawn mower gas tank?
Flushing your lawn mower gas tank is crucial for maintaining its optimal performance and extending its lifespan. Over time, gasoline can degrade and form varnish, gum, and other residues that can clog fuel lines, carburetor jets, and other vital engine components. These deposits can lead to poor engine performance, starting difficulties, and even engine damage. By flushing the tank, you remove these contaminants and ensure a clean fuel supply, which helps your mower run smoothly and efficiently.
Additionally, flushing the tank prevents the formation of harmful rust and corrosion that can occur when old, stale gasoline sits in the tank. Rust and corrosion can damage the tank itself and potentially compromise the integrity of the fuel system. Regular flushing helps maintain the integrity of your fuel system and prevents costly repairs down the line.
How often should I flush my lawn mower gas tank?
The frequency of flushing your lawn mower gas tank depends on how often you use your mower and the type of gasoline you use. Ideally, you should flush the tank at least once a year, especially if you store your mower for extended periods. If you use your mower frequently, you can extend the flushing interval to every two years. However, if you use gasoline with ethanol, it’s recommended to flush the tank more often, perhaps every six months, as ethanol attracts moisture and can degrade faster than pure gasoline.
Remember that the key is to ensure that any gasoline remaining in the tank is fresh and free of contaminants. If you notice any signs of fuel degradation or if your mower starts to experience performance issues, it’s a good indication that it’s time to flush the tank.
What do I need to flush my lawn mower gas tank?
To flush your lawn mower gas tank, you will need a few essential items:
- A fuel stabilizer: This additive helps prevent the formation of varnish and gum in gasoline, extending its shelf life. It’s a good idea to add fuel stabilizer to your tank before storing your mower for extended periods.
- A siphon pump: This tool is used to safely remove gasoline from the tank.
- A fuel filter: This is optional but recommended to catch any remaining debris or contaminants as you transfer the gasoline.
- A clean container: This is for storing the old gasoline you siphon from the tank.
- A clean cloth: This is for cleaning up any spills.
What are the steps to flush a lawn mower gas tank?
Flushing your lawn mower gas tank is a simple process that can be done in a few steps:
- Start by draining the old gasoline. Ensure the mower is turned off and cooled down. Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting. Then, use a siphon pump to remove the old gasoline from the tank. Be careful to handle the gasoline with care and dispose of it properly.
- Next, clean the inside of the tank. Use a clean cloth and a mild cleaning solution, such as dish soap and water, to wipe down the interior of the tank. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the tank.
- Once the tank is dry, reassemble it. Reinstall the tank cap and ensure all connections are secure.
Can I use a gas tank cleaner to flush my lawn mower gas tank?
While gas tank cleaners are designed to remove deposits and debris from fuel tanks, it’s not recommended to use them for lawn mower tanks. These cleaners can be harsh and potentially damage the tank’s internal components, especially those made of plastic or rubber.
Instead of relying on harsh chemicals, it’s best to follow the recommended flushing procedures outlined in this guide. These methods effectively clean the tank while minimizing the risk of damage.
What happens if I don’t flush my lawn mower gas tank?
Failing to flush your lawn mower gas tank regularly can lead to several issues that can impact your mower’s performance and longevity. Over time, stale gasoline can form deposits that clog fuel lines, carburetor jets, and other engine components. This can result in poor engine performance, difficulty starting, and even engine damage.
Furthermore, stale gasoline can attract moisture, which can lead to rust and corrosion inside the tank. These problems can weaken the tank, causing leaks and compromising the fuel system’s integrity. In the worst-case scenario, neglecting to flush your lawn mower gas tank could lead to costly repairs or even necessitate a new engine.
What are some tips for storing my lawn mower after flushing the gas tank?
After flushing the gas tank, there are a few tips to ensure your lawn mower is properly stored and ready for use next season:
- Add fresh gasoline with fuel stabilizer: Before storing your lawn mower for the winter, fill the tank with fresh gasoline and add fuel stabilizer. This will help prevent the formation of deposits and ensure that the fuel remains stable.
- Run the engine for a few minutes: After adding fresh gasoline with stabilizer, run the engine for a few minutes to ensure the fuel system is fully lubricated. This helps to distribute the stabilizer throughout the system.
- Store the mower in a dry, well-ventilated area: Choose a dry, well-ventilated space to store your mower. This will prevent moisture from accumulating and causing corrosion.
- Remove the spark plug wire: Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting while the mower is in storage.
- Change the oil and air filter: Before storing the mower, change the oil and air filter to ensure they are fresh and ready for the next season.