You’re ready to mow the lawn, but when you go to fill up your gas tank, you notice something’s wrong. The fuel looks cloudy, and you suspect it might be contaminated with oil. This is a common problem, especially for older lawn mowers. But don’t despair! Removing oil from your lawn mower gas tank isn’t as daunting as it might seem. This article will walk you through the process step-by-step, covering everything from identifying the problem to safely disposing of the contaminated fuel.
What to Do If Oil is in Your Lawn Mower Gas Tank
Firstly, it’s important to understand why oil might end up in your gas tank. The most common culprit is a faulty crankcase breather. This component, responsible for venting gases from the engine, can malfunction and allow oil to seep into the gas tank. If this is the case, addressing the breather issue is crucial to prevent future contamination.
Step 1: Identifying the Problem
The first step is to confirm that oil is indeed mixed with the gasoline. Here’s how:
- Visual Inspection: Check the gas tank for a milky or cloudy appearance. This is a strong indicator of oil contamination.
- Smell Test: Gasoline has a distinct odor. If you smell oil mixed with the gasoline, that’s another sign of contamination.
If you suspect oil contamination, it’s best to drain the tank and inspect the fuel lines and carburetor for any signs of oil.
Step 2: Draining the Contaminated Fuel
Once you’ve confirmed the presence of oil in your gas tank, it’s time to drain it.
- Safety First: Ensure the lawnmower is turned off and cooled down before attempting to drain the fuel.
- Gather Supplies: You’ll need a suitable container to collect the contaminated fuel, a siphon pump or a fuel drain hose, and protective gear like gloves and eye protection.
- Locate the Drain Plug: Most lawn mowers have a drain plug located at the bottom of the fuel tank. You may need to remove the gas tank to access it depending on your model.
- Open the Drain Plug: Carefully open the drain plug and let the contaminated fuel flow into your container.
- Clean the Drain Plug: Once the tank is empty, clean the drain plug and replace it securely.
Step 3: Cleaning the Fuel Tank and System
After draining the fuel, you’ll need to clean the fuel tank and fuel lines.
- Cleaning the Tank: Use a cleaning solution designed for gas tanks. Avoid using harsh chemicals as they can damage the tank.
- Cleaning the Fuel Lines: If the fuel lines appear oily, detach them from the tank and the carburetor. You can try flushing them with a solvent or replace them entirely if they’re damaged.
- Thorough Rinse: Rinse the fuel tank and fuel lines thoroughly with clean gasoline or a fuel system cleaner.
- Dry Everything: Dry the tank and fuel lines completely before reassembly.
Step 4: Replacing the Fuel Filter
The fuel filter helps prevent debris and contaminants from reaching the carburetor. It’s essential to replace the fuel filter after draining contaminated fuel to prevent further issues.
- Locate the Fuel Filter: The filter is typically located on the fuel line between the tank and the carburetor.
- Remove the Old Filter: Gently remove the old filter and replace it with a new one.
- Secure the New Filter: Ensure the new filter is securely attached to the fuel lines.
Step 5: Cleaning the Carburetor
The carburetor is responsible for mixing air and fuel. Oil contamination can clog the carburetor jets, leading to performance issues.
- Remove the Carburetor: Refer to your lawnmower manual for instructions on removing the carburetor.
- Cleaning the Carburetor: You can use a carburetor cleaning kit to clean the jets and passages. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
- Reassemble the Carburetor: Once the carburetor is clean, reassemble it and reinstall it on the engine.
Step 6: Disposing of the Contaminated Fuel
Properly disposing of contaminated fuel is crucial for environmental protection.
- Don’t Pour It Down the Drain: Never dispose of contaminated fuel down the drain or in the ground.
- Find a Local Recycling Facility: Contact your local waste management or recycling facility for information on proper disposal methods. They may offer dedicated containers or collection days for hazardous materials like contaminated fuel.
Step 7: Running the Lawn Mower
After cleaning and reassembling the fuel system, it’s important to run the lawnmower to ensure everything is working properly.
- Start the Engine: Start the lawnmower and allow it to run for a few minutes.
- Monitor for Issues: Pay attention to any unusual noises, smoke, or performance issues. If you notice any problems, shut off the engine and troubleshoot the issue.
Preventive Measures
After addressing the oil contamination issue, consider taking steps to prevent it from happening again.
- Inspect the Crankcase Breather: Regularly inspect the crankcase breather for signs of wear or damage. If necessary, replace it.
- Use Quality Fuel: Use high-quality gasoline and avoid leaving it in the tank for extended periods.
- Maintain Your Lawn Mower: Regularly service and maintain your lawnmower to ensure its components are functioning properly.
When to Seek Professional Help
While the steps outlined above can address most cases of oil contamination, there may be situations where professional assistance is necessary.
- Extensive Damage: If you notice significant damage to the fuel system, such as cracked fuel lines or a damaged carburetor, seeking professional help is advisable.
- Engine Issues: If the engine exhibits persistent performance issues after cleaning the fuel system, it’s best to consult a qualified mechanic.
Conclusion
Dealing with oil contamination in your lawn mower’s gas tank can be frustrating, but it’s a solvable problem. By following the steps outlined above and implementing preventive measures, you can keep your lawn mower running smoothly for years to come. Remember, prioritize safety, dispose of contaminated fuel responsibly, and don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance if needed.
FAQ
How do I know if there is oil in my gas tank?
If you suspect oil has gotten into your gas tank, you can look for several signs. The easiest is to visually inspect the fuel. If you see a milky white or brownish substance mixed in with the gasoline, it’s likely oil. You might also notice a strong oily smell in the gas tank.
Another sign is if your lawnmower engine is running poorly or sputtering. If the oil is blocking the fuel lines or carburetor, it can lead to fuel starvation and engine problems.
What causes oil to get in the gas tank?
The most common cause of oil in the gas tank is a faulty crankcase ventilation system. This system is responsible for venting gases from the crankcase and preventing oil from being sucked into the intake manifold. If the system is blocked or damaged, oil can leak into the intake manifold and eventually into the gas tank.
Another possibility is a damaged or worn-out piston ring. This can cause oil to leak past the piston and into the combustion chamber, where it can be sucked into the intake manifold and eventually into the gas tank.
What are the dangers of running your lawnmower with oil in the gas tank?
Running your lawnmower with oil in the gas tank can cause serious damage to the engine. Oil and gasoline don’t mix well, and when they’re combined, they can create a thick, sludge-like substance that can clog fuel lines and damage the carburetor. This can lead to engine problems, including reduced power, sputtering, and even complete engine failure.
In addition, running your lawnmower with oil in the gas tank can also cause damage to the spark plugs and exhaust system. The sludge can build up on these parts and restrict airflow, reducing engine performance and potentially leading to engine damage.
How can I remove oil from my gas tank?
The easiest way to remove oil from your gas tank is to siphon it out using a siphon pump. This will remove most of the contaminated gas, leaving you with a clean tank. You can also use a turkey baster to suck out the contaminated fuel.
Once you’ve siphoned out the gas, you can use a shop towel or rag to wipe out any remaining residue. It’s also a good idea to flush the gas tank with a small amount of gasoline to ensure all traces of oil are removed.
Can I just drain the gas tank and refill it with fresh gas?
While draining the tank and refilling it with fresh gas might seem like a simple solution, it’s not always enough. If a significant amount of oil has gotten into the tank, it may be difficult to remove all traces of it, even after draining and refilling.
It’s best to follow the steps outlined above for removing the oil. This will help ensure that your lawnmower is running smoothly and efficiently.
What should I do if my lawnmower still won’t start after removing the oil?
If you’ve removed the oil from your gas tank but your lawnmower still won’t start, it’s likely that the oil has damaged the carburetor or fuel lines. You will need to clean or replace these parts to get your lawnmower running again.
If you’re not comfortable working on your lawnmower’s engine, it’s best to take it to a qualified mechanic for repair. They will be able to diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.
How can I prevent oil from getting into my gas tank in the future?
The best way to prevent oil from getting into your gas tank is to maintain your lawnmower’s crankcase ventilation system. Check the system regularly for any signs of damage or blockage, and clean it as needed.
You should also replace worn-out or damaged piston rings. This will help prevent oil from leaking into the combustion chamber and eventually into the gas tank.