The satisfying roar of a lawn mower is a sound of summer, a sign of well-maintained greenery and a backyard ready for relaxation. But what happens when your trusty mower sits dormant all winter, its fuel tank harboring a forgotten stash of gasoline? That once-fresh fuel can turn stale, gumming up your engine and leaving you with a sputtering, reluctant machine. This article will equip you with the knowledge and tools to effectively remove old gas from your lawn mower, ensuring a smooth and trouble-free mowing season. We’ll explore the dangers of using old gas, the various methods for removal, and essential tips for preventing future fuel problems.
Understanding the Problem:
Old gasoline loses its potency over time due to a process called oxidation. The volatile hydrocarbons in gasoline evaporate, leaving behind a sticky residue that can clog fuel lines, carburetor jets, and fuel filters. This residue can also cause the engine to run poorly, leading to sputtering, stalling, and even damage.
Why You Should Drain Old Gas
The consequences of using old gas in your lawn mower can range from minor annoyances to serious engine damage. Here’s why draining and replacing it is crucial:
1. Engine Performance Issues: The most noticeable effect of old gas is a decline in engine performance. You’ll experience sputtering, stalling, difficulty starting, and an overall lack of power.
2. Carburetor Problems: Old gas can cause the carburetor to become gummed up, hindering the proper mixing of air and fuel. This can lead to uneven fuel flow, causing the engine to run poorly or not at all.
3. Fuel Line Clogging: The sticky residue left behind by old gas can clog fuel lines, preventing the flow of fresh fuel to the engine.
4. Fuel Tank Damage: Over time, the residue from old gas can corrode the inside of your fuel tank, leading to rust and potential leaks.
Methods for Removing Old Gas
Now, let’s dive into the practical methods for getting that old gas out of your lawn mower. There are several approaches, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages:
1. Siphoning
1.1. What You’ll Need:
- A siphon pump (manual or electric)
- A clear container for collecting the gas
- A rag or paper towels
1.2. Steps:
- Safety First: Wear gloves and eye protection. Make sure the lawn mower is cold and the engine is off.
- Locate the Drain Valve: Find the fuel tank’s drain valve, typically located at the bottom or side of the tank.
- Prepare the Siphon: Fill the siphon pump with gasoline, then place the outlet end into the container.
- Start Siphoning: Insert the siphon’s intake end into the tank’s drain valve, and gently pull or activate the pump to start the flow.
- Empty the Tank: Continue siphoning until the fuel tank is empty.
- Dispose of Old Gas: Never pour old gas down the drain or onto the ground. Dispose of it properly at a local hazardous waste facility or gas station that accepts old fuel.
2. Manually Draining
2.1. What You’ll Need:
- A small container (jar or bottle)
- A piece of tubing (approximately 1/4 inch diameter)
- A rag or paper towels
2.2. Steps:
- Safety First: Wear gloves and eye protection. Make sure the lawn mower is cold and the engine is off.
- Locate the Drain Valve: Find the fuel tank’s drain valve, typically located at the bottom or side of the tank.
- Prepare for Drainage: Place the container under the drain valve and position the tubing so that one end is in the container and the other end in the drain valve.
- Open the Valve: Carefully open the drain valve and let the gas flow into the container.
- Dispose of Old Gas: Dispose of the old gas properly at a local hazardous waste facility or gas station that accepts old fuel.
3. Using a Fuel Pump
3.1. What You’ll Need:
- A fuel pump (specifically designed for gas)
- A clear container for collecting the gas
- A rag or paper towels
3.2. Steps:
- Safety First: Wear gloves and eye protection. Make sure the lawn mower is cold and the engine is off.
- Prepare the Pump: Connect the fuel pump’s intake hose to the fuel tank’s opening.
- Connect the Container: Connect the pump’s outlet hose to the container for collecting the gas.
- Start Pumping: Activate the fuel pump and allow it to pump the gas out of the tank.
- Dispose of Old Gas: Dispose of the old gas properly at a local hazardous waste facility or gas station that accepts old fuel.
Cleaning the Fuel System
Once you’ve drained the old gas, it’s essential to clean the fuel system to remove any remaining residue. Here’s a general approach:
1. Cleaning the Fuel Tank:
- Remove the Tank: If possible, carefully remove the fuel tank from the lawn mower.
- Clean Thoroughly: Use a cleaning solution specifically designed for fuel tanks and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse the tank thoroughly with clean water and allow it to dry completely before re-installing.
2. Cleaning the Fuel Lines and Carburetor:
- Disconnect the Lines: Disconnect the fuel lines from the tank, carburetor, and fuel filter.
- Clean with Fuel Line Cleaner: Use a fuel line cleaner specifically formulated for this purpose.
- Blow Out the Lines: Use compressed air to blow out the fuel lines and remove any remaining residue.
- Clean the Carburetor: Remove the carburetor and clean it thoroughly using carburetor cleaner and a small brush. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific model.
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble the carburetor, fuel lines, and fuel filter. Start the engine and test for proper operation. If necessary, repeat the cleaning process.
Preventing Future Fuel Problems:
1. Use Fresh Fuel:
Always use fresh gasoline and avoid storing fuel for extended periods.
2. Use Fuel Stabilizer:
Add a fuel stabilizer to your gas tank before storing your lawn mower for the winter. This will help to prevent fuel from degrading and reduce the risk of gumming and clogging.
3. Drain the Tank Before Storage:
If you’re storing your lawn mower for an extended period, it’s a good practice to drain the fuel tank completely to minimize the risk of fuel degradation.
4. Keep the Tank Full:
Keeping the fuel tank full can help prevent moisture from condensing inside the tank and contaminating the fuel.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can successfully remove old gas from your lawn mower, ensuring smooth operation and extending the life of your machine. Remember, properly maintaining your lawn mower’s fuel system is crucial for its longevity and reliable performance. With a little effort and these helpful tips, you can enjoy a trouble-free mowing experience all season long!
FAQs
How old is too old for gas in a lawn mower?
Gas that is more than a few months old can start to deteriorate. This happens because the ethanol in gasoline absorbs moisture from the air, causing it to separate and form a gummy residue. The older the gas, the more likely it is to cause problems with your lawn mower, like clogging the carburetor or damaging the engine. It’s best to use fresh gas whenever possible, and if you have old gas, it’s better to dispose of it properly.
Can I use old gas in my lawn mower?
You can try to use old gas in your lawn mower, but it is not recommended. It can cause your lawn mower to run poorly, or not at all. You may be able to get the old gas out by siphoning it out of the tank or by using a fuel stabilizer. You can also try to add fresh gas to the old gas in a ratio of 2:1 (2 parts fresh gas to 1 part old gas). This may help to dilute the old gas and make it usable. However, it is still best to avoid using old gas if possible.
What happens if I use old gas in my lawn mower?
Using old gas in your lawn mower can cause a variety of problems, including:
- Difficulty starting: The old gas may have gummed up the carburetor, making it difficult to start the engine.
- Poor performance: The old gas may cause the engine to run poorly, such as sputtering or stalling.
- Engine damage: The old gas can damage the engine by clogging the fuel lines and carburetor, which can lead to a decrease in power and even a complete failure of the engine.
- Emissions issues: Old gas can also contribute to increased emissions from your lawn mower.
How can I tell if I have old gas in my lawn mower?
If you’re not sure how old the gas in your lawn mower is, there are a few things you can look for:
- Smell: Old gas will have a strong, pungent odor, unlike fresh gas which has a milder smell.
- Appearance: Old gas may appear cloudy or discolored, while fresh gas is clear and bright.
- Performance: If your lawn mower is having trouble starting or running, it could be due to old gas.
How do I get old gas out of a lawn mower?
Getting old gas out of a lawn mower is a relatively simple process that requires a few common tools.
- Step 1: Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent the engine from accidentally starting.
- Step 2: Use a siphon pump or a turkey baster to remove the old gas from the tank.
- Step 3: Dispose of the old gas properly. If you are uncertain about how to properly dispose of the gas, contact your local waste management agency.
- Step 4: After removing the old gas, you can add fresh gas to the tank.
How can I prevent old gas from accumulating in my lawn mower?
The best way to prevent old gas from accumulating in your lawn mower is to use it regularly. However, if you know you won’t be using your lawn mower for an extended period of time, you can take steps to prevent the gas from going bad:
- Use a fuel stabilizer: Fuel stabilizers are additives that help to prevent gas from breaking down. You can add them to the gas tank before storing your lawn mower.
- Drain the gas tank: If you won’t be using your lawn mower for several months, it’s a good idea to drain the gas tank completely.
- Store your lawn mower properly: Store your lawn mower in a cool, dry place.
What should I do if I accidentally used old gas?
If you’ve accidentally used old gas in your lawn mower, it’s important to take steps to address the issue as soon as possible.
- Try to run the engine: If the lawn mower starts and runs, you may be able to clear out the old gas by running the engine for a few minutes.
- Add fresh gas: If the engine doesn’t start, or if it runs poorly, you can try adding fresh gas to the tank.
- Clean the carburetor: If your lawn mower still doesn’t run properly, you may need to clean the carburetor. This can be a more involved task, and you may need to consult a service manual or take your lawn mower to a qualified mechanic.
- Replace the fuel lines: If the fuel lines are clogged, you may need to replace them. This can be a more involved task and you may want to consult a service manual or take your lawn mower to a qualified mechanic.