The smell of freshly cut grass is a quintessential summer experience. But that feeling can quickly sour if your riding lawn mower starts sputtering and coughing, refusing to cooperate. The culprit? Often, it’s bad gas. Over time, gasoline degrades, losing its potency and becoming gummy, causing issues with your mower’s engine. This article will walk you through the process of getting rid of bad gas and restoring your riding lawn mower to its former glory. We’ll cover everything from recognizing the symptoms of bad gas to the best methods for removing it and getting your mower back in tip-top shape.
Overview:
Dealing with bad gas in your riding lawn mower is a common problem, but it doesn’t have to be a major headache. By following a few simple steps, you can safely and effectively drain the old fuel, clean out your fuel system, and get your mower running smoothly again.
Recognizing the Signs of Bad Gas
Before diving into the removal process, it’s crucial to identify if bad gas is indeed the culprit. Here are some telltale signs:
Difficulty Starting
A classic symptom of bad gas is a struggle to start the engine. You might hear sputtering, coughing, or the engine might not even turn over. The old fuel might be gumming up the carburetor, preventing proper combustion.
Engine Stalling
If your mower starts but then stalls frequently, especially when under load, bad gas could be the reason. The engine might be receiving a weak fuel mixture or encountering issues with fuel delivery due to the degraded gasoline.
Poor Performance
A decrease in power and a noticeable drop in speed could also be linked to bad gas. The engine might be struggling to deliver optimal performance because it’s trying to run on fuel that’s no longer effective.
Unusual Smells
While a hint of gas is normal, a particularly strong or unusual odor might point towards old gas. It can indicate that the fuel has started to evaporate, leaving behind residues that can clog the fuel lines and carburetor.
Draining the Old Gas
Once you’ve identified the signs of bad gas, it’s time to drain the old fuel from your mower’s tank. Here’s how:
Safety First
Always prioritize safety when working with gasoline. Ensure the mower is parked in a well-ventilated area, away from any open flames or sparks. Wear protective gear like gloves and eye protection.
Locate the Fuel Tank
The fuel tank is usually located on the side or under the seat of your riding mower.
Prepare a Container
Use a clean, airtight container to collect the old gas. Avoid using plastic containers, as gasoline can damage them.
Remove the Fuel Cap
Carefully unscrew the fuel cap, releasing any pressure that may have built up inside the tank.
Drain the Tank
Tilt the mower slightly to assist the flow of gas. There may be a drain plug at the bottom of the tank – if so, use it to drain the fuel. Otherwise, siphon the gas using a siphon pump or a long piece of tubing.
Disposing of Old Gas
Old gas should be disposed of responsibly. Contact your local waste management facility for proper disposal instructions. Never pour old gas down the drain or into the ground, as it can pollute the environment.
Cleaning the Fuel System
Draining the tank is a good start, but it’s crucial to clean the fuel system to remove any remaining residue of bad gas.
Cleaning the Fuel Lines
The fuel lines deliver gas from the tank to the carburetor. To clean them, disconnect the lines and flush them with a fuel line cleaner. You can also use compressed air to blow out any remaining debris.
Cleaning the Carburetor
The carburetor is the heart of the fuel system, responsible for mixing air and fuel. A buildup of varnish and gum from old gas can cause performance issues. You can clean the carburetor yourself by removing it from the mower and following the manufacturer’s instructions. Alternatively, consider having it professionally cleaned for a thorough job.
Adding Fresh Fuel
Once the old gas is drained and the fuel system is cleaned, it’s time to add fresh, high-quality gasoline.
Choose the Right Fuel
Always use the recommended fuel type for your riding lawn mower. Consult your owner’s manual for the correct octane rating and fuel additives.
Avoid Old Gas
Don’t use gasoline that’s been sitting in storage for a long time, as it may have already started to degrade.
Fill the Tank
Fill the fuel tank to the indicated level, avoiding overfilling.
Troubleshooting and Additional Tips
Checking the Fuel Filter
The fuel filter prevents debris from entering the fuel lines and carburetor. Check the fuel filter regularly, and replace it if it’s clogged or damaged.
Spark Plug Inspection
A fouled spark plug can also cause starting and performance issues. Check the spark plug and replace it if necessary.
Fuel Stabilizer
Using a fuel stabilizer can help prevent gas from degrading in the first place. Add stabilizer to your fuel tank before storing your mower for extended periods.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with bad gas in your riding lawn mower can be a frustrating experience, but with the right knowledge and a few simple steps, you can restore your mower to peak performance. By draining the old fuel, cleaning the fuel system, and adding fresh gas, you’ll be back to enjoying your lawn care routine in no time. Remember to prioritize safety, consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions, and dispose of old gas responsibly. Happy mowing!
FAQs
1. How do I know if my riding lawn mower has bad gas?
You can tell if your riding lawn mower has bad gas by its appearance and smell. Old gas will often be discolored and have a strong, pungent odor. Additionally, the engine might sputter, hesitate, or even refuse to start. If you suspect bad gas, it’s best to check the fuel tank and drain the contents if necessary.
If you’ve had gas in your lawnmower for more than a few months, especially during the off-season, it’s likely gone bad and should be replaced.
2. Can I use old gas in my riding lawn mower?
It’s not recommended to use old gas in your riding lawn mower. Old gas can cause various problems, such as clogged fuel lines, damaged carburetor components, and engine performance issues. Using fresh, high-quality gas will ensure optimal performance and extend the lifespan of your mower.
If you have old gas, it’s best to drain it and replace it with fresh fuel.
3. How do I drain the gas from my riding lawn mower?
To drain the gas from your riding lawn mower, locate the fuel tank’s drain valve or petcock. Place a container underneath the valve and open it carefully. Allow the gas to drain completely, then close the valve. If your mower doesn’t have a drain valve, you can siphon the gas using a siphon pump.
Remember to dispose of the old gas properly at a designated hazardous waste collection facility.
4. What happens if I don’t drain the bad gas from my riding lawn mower?
Leaving bad gas in your riding lawn mower can lead to several problems. The gas can gum up the carburetor, clog the fuel lines, and damage the engine. It can also make starting your mower difficult or impossible.
If you notice any issues with your mower, such as sputtering or difficulty starting, it’s crucial to check the fuel system for bad gas and take steps to resolve the problem promptly.
5. Can I just add fresh gas to the old gas?
While adding fresh gas to old gas might seem like a quick fix, it’s not recommended. The old gas can still contain contaminants and contribute to engine problems. Instead, drain the old gas entirely and refill the tank with fresh gas to ensure optimal performance and prevent potential damage.
This will ensure your mower runs smoothly and efficiently without any issues caused by fuel contamination.
6. Can I use fuel stabilizer to prevent gas from going bad?
Yes, using fuel stabilizer can help prevent gas from going bad and extend its lifespan. Fuel stabilizer works by inhibiting the oxidation process that causes gasoline to degrade. It’s best to add fuel stabilizer to your gas tank before storing your riding lawn mower for extended periods.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper dosage and usage of fuel stabilizer.
7. How often should I change the gas in my riding lawn mower?
It’s best to change the gas in your riding lawn mower every 30 days, especially during the off-season. If you store your mower for an extended period, it’s advisable to drain the fuel tank completely and store the mower with a fresh tank of stabilized gas.
This practice will help prevent fuel degradation and ensure your mower starts smoothly the next time you need it.