The roar of a riding lawn mower, the smell of freshly cut grass, and the satisfaction of a job well done – these are the joys of owning a riding mower. But what happens when you need to store your mower for the winter, or perhaps you’re selling it? Dealing with the fuel in the tank can become a real headache. Left unattended, gasoline can gum up the engine, causing costly repairs. This article will guide you through the process of safely and effectively getting rid of the gas from your riding lawn mower, ensuring your mower stays in top shape for next season. We’ll cover everything from basic steps to advanced techniques, helping you tackle this common issue with ease.
Why Remove Gasoline from Your Riding Lawn Mower?
Gasoline, when left in the tank for extended periods, can degrade and form varnish and deposits. These deposits can clog fuel lines, carburetor jets, and even damage the fuel pump. Additionally, gasoline is a highly flammable substance, and storing a mower with a full tank increases the risk of fire. For these reasons, it’s crucial to remove gasoline from your riding mower before storing it.
Getting Started: Safety First
Before attempting to remove gasoline from your riding lawn mower, ensure you’re working in a well-ventilated area. Gasoline fumes are flammable and can be harmful if inhaled. Always wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from spills.
Step 1: Shut Off the Engine and Disconnect the Battery
The first step is to ensure your mower is completely off. Turn the ignition key to the “off” position and disconnect the battery terminals. This will prevent any accidental starting, ensuring your safety and preventing damage to your mower.
Step 2: Choose a Safe Location to Drain the Fuel
Select a safe location away from any ignition sources or open flames. A concrete or paved area is ideal for catching any spills.
Step 3: Prepare the Fuel Container
Use an approved fuel container, preferably one made of metal or plastic specifically designed for gasoline. Never use glass containers, as they can shatter and cause severe injury. Ensure the container is properly labeled and stored away from heat sources.
Methods for Draining the Fuel Tank
There are multiple ways to remove gasoline from your riding lawn mower’s tank. We will explore two popular and effective methods:
Method 1: Using a Siphon
This method requires a siphon pump, which you can purchase at most auto parts stores or online.
Steps:
- Attach the Siphon: Insert the siphon hose into the fuel tank, making sure the end with the pump is submerged in the fuel.
- Prime the Siphon: Create a vacuum in the siphon pump by sucking on the hose or using a hand pump.
- Start the Siphon: Once the fuel starts flowing, position the hose over the fuel container.
- Monitor the Process: Continuously monitor the fuel flow and ensure the siphon hose stays submerged in the fuel tank.
- Stop When Empty: When the fuel tank is nearly empty, carefully remove the siphon hose from the tank.
Tips:
- For faster draining, try gently rocking the mower back and forth.
- If the siphon pump is difficult to use, try tilting the mower slightly to allow the fuel to flow more easily.
Method 2: Using a Fuel Drain Valve
Some riding lawn mowers come equipped with a fuel drain valve.
Steps:
- Locate the Valve: Identify the fuel drain valve. It’s often located near the bottom of the fuel tank.
- Open the Valve: Carefully open the valve, ensuring the fuel container is placed below the drain valve.
- Drain the Fuel: Allow the fuel to drain into the container.
- Close the Valve: Once the fuel is drained, close the valve securely.
Tip: You can also use a small wrench or pliers to open the valve if it’s difficult to turn by hand.
Dealing with Remaining Fuel
Even after using a siphon or drain valve, a small amount of fuel may remain in the tank. Here’s how to handle this:
Step 4: Run the Engine (If Possible)
If your mower allows it, run the engine until the remaining fuel is consumed. This will help clear any fuel lines and reduce the risk of gumming.
Step 5: Use a Fuel Stabilizer (Optional)
If you plan to store your mower for an extended period, consider adding a fuel stabilizer to the remaining fuel. This will help prevent the formation of varnish and deposits.
Safe Disposal of Gasoline
Once you’ve removed the gasoline from your riding lawn mower, it’s crucial to dispose of it safely. Never pour gasoline down a drain or into the soil. Instead, follow these guidelines:
- Contact your local waste disposal authority: Check with your local waste management agency for information on proper gasoline disposal.
- Locate a hazardous waste collection center: Many communities have hazardous waste collection centers where you can safely dispose of gasoline and other chemicals.
- Find a gas station: Some gas stations may accept gasoline for proper disposal.
Maintaining Your Mower:
Removing fuel isn’t the only step in preparing your riding lawn mower for storage. Here are some additional tips:
Cleaning the Mower:
- Clean your mower thoroughly, paying particular attention to the underside and the engine.
- Remove any grass clippings or debris.
- Wash the mower with mild soap and water, avoiding any electrical components.
Storing Your Mower:
- Store your mower in a dry, well-ventilated area.
- Cover the mower with a tarp or sheet to protect it from dust and moisture.
Conclusion:
Removing gasoline from your riding lawn mower is a crucial step in maintaining its health and prolonging its lifespan. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your mower is properly prepared for storage, ensuring a smooth and trouble-free start next season. Remember, safety is paramount when handling gasoline, so always work in a well-ventilated area and use proper safety gear. Happy mowing!
FAQs
1. Why do I need to remove gas from my riding lawn mower?
There are a few reasons why you might need to remove gas from your riding lawn mower. If you’re storing the mower for an extended period, it’s best to remove the gas to prevent it from going bad. Old gas can gum up the engine and make it difficult to start. Additionally, if you’re performing maintenance or repairs, removing the gas can make the job safer and easier.
Finally, if you’re experiencing engine problems, removing the gas can help you diagnose the issue. For example, if the engine is running poorly, it could be due to bad gas. Removing the gas and replacing it with fresh fuel can help determine if this is the case.
2. How do I safely remove gas from my riding lawn mower?
It’s crucial to approach removing gas from your riding lawn mower with caution. Never attempt to siphon gas from the tank while the engine is running. Ensure the mower is turned off and cooled down. You’ll need a gas siphon pump, a container to hold the gas, and safety goggles to protect your eyes.
Insert the siphon pump into the gas tank and carefully drain the gas into the container. It’s recommended to wear gloves and handle the gas with care, as it can be flammable. Always store the drained gas in a safe and well-ventilated area, away from any heat sources.
3. What should I do with the drained gas?
Once you’ve drained the gas from your riding lawn mower, it’s important to dispose of it properly. You can’t simply pour it down the drain or onto the ground, as it can contaminate the environment.
The best option is to take the gas to a local recycling center or hazardous waste facility. These facilities are equipped to handle gas safely and responsibly. Check with your local municipality to find the nearest gas disposal location.
4. Can I just run the engine until it’s out of gas?
While running the engine until it’s out of gas might seem like a quick solution, it’s not recommended. Running the engine dry can damage the fuel pump and potentially other engine components.
It’s also important to consider that the engine will still contain a small amount of gas even when it stops running. This remaining gas can go bad over time and cause issues.
5. What should I do if I accidentally spill gas?
Accidents can happen, so it’s important to be prepared in case you spill gas. If you do spill gas, the first thing to do is to ensure that there are no ignition sources nearby. This includes cigarettes, open flames, or even electrical equipment.
Next, you’ll need to contain the spill. You can use absorbent materials like kitty litter, sawdust, or sand to soak up the spilled gas. Once the spill is contained, you can dispose of it according to local regulations.
6. How often should I remove gas from my riding lawn mower?
If you’re storing your riding lawn mower for an extended period, it’s a good idea to remove the gas every few months. This will help prevent the gas from going bad and causing problems.
Even if you’re using your mower regularly, it’s still a good practice to drain the gas tank once a year. This will help keep your mower running smoothly and extend its lifespan.
7. How do I prevent gas from going bad in the future?
There are a few things you can do to prevent gas from going bad in your riding lawn mower. Firstly, always use fresh fuel. Avoid storing old gas in the tank.
Secondly, consider using a fuel stabilizer. These additives help prevent gas from degrading and make it last longer. Lastly, keep your mower’s fuel tank full. A full tank will reduce the amount of air inside the tank, which can help prevent oxidation and fuel degradation.