The satisfying roar of your lawnmower is a familiar summer sound, but that roar can quickly turn into a sputtering cough if you’ve got bad gas in the tank. That stale, old fuel can cause your mower to sputter, stall, and even refuse to start. Thankfully, getting rid of bad gas is a relatively straightforward process, and with a little patience and the right tools, you can get your mower back in tip-top shape.
This article will walk you through the steps to get rid of bad gas, explain why it’s important to do so, and offer tips on preventing this issue in the future. From draining the tank to cleaning the carburetor, we’ll cover everything you need to know to conquer those gas-related woes and get your mower back in action.
Why Does Bad Gas Cause Problems?
Bad gas, or fuel that’s been sitting in the tank for too long, can cause several problems for your lawnmower. The main culprit is ethanol, which is often added to gasoline to improve combustion. While ethanol is great for fuel efficiency, it attracts moisture, and over time, this moisture causes the gas to separate, forming a gummy residue. This residue can:
- Clog the carburetor: This crucial part of the mower mixes fuel and air, and when clogged, it can prevent proper fuel delivery, leading to sputtering, stalling, and difficulty starting.
- Damage the fuel system: The residue can also damage other parts of the fuel system, like the fuel lines and fuel filter, leading to further performance issues.
- Cause engine damage: If the bad gas reaches the engine, it can cause damage to the spark plugs, piston rings, and other vital components, leading to costly repairs.
Getting Rid of Bad Gas: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Safety First: Before you begin working on your lawnmower, it’s crucial to prioritize safety.
- Turn off the mower and disconnect the spark plug wire. This prevents accidental ignition.
- Wear safety glasses and gloves.
- Work in a well-ventilated area. Gasoline fumes are flammable and harmful.
2. Drain the Fuel Tank:
- Locate the fuel tank drain valve: This is usually a small valve located at the bottom of the tank.
- Place a container beneath the valve. The container should be large enough to hold all the fuel.
- Open the valve and let the fuel drain into the container. It may take some time for all the fuel to drain.
- Close the valve once the fuel has drained.
3. Clean the Carburetor:
- Remove the carburetor from the mower. This will vary depending on your mower model, so consult your owner’s manual.
- Clean the carburetor with carburetor cleaner. This special cleaner dissolves the gum and varnish that accumulate in the carburetor.
- Use a small brush or compressed air to remove any remaining debris.
- Inspect the carburetor for any damage or wear. If you find any issues, you may need to replace the carburetor.
- Reassemble the carburetor and reinstall it on the mower.
4. Fresh Fuel is Key:
- Fill the tank with fresh, high-quality gasoline. Make sure to use the correct fuel grade as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Add fuel stabilizer to the gasoline. This helps prevent the formation of fuel residue over time, extending the life of your gas.
5. Start and Test:
- Reconnect the spark plug wire.
- Start the mower and allow it to run for a few minutes. If it starts easily and runs smoothly, your problem is likely solved!
- If you still encounter issues, you may need to further inspect the fuel system or consult a professional mechanic.
6. Disposal:
- Dispose of the old fuel properly. Never pour it down the drain or on the ground. Consult your local waste disposal guidelines for proper disposal methods.
Tips for Preventing Bad Gas
- Use fuel stabilizer: Regularly add fuel stabilizer to your gas tank, even if you don’t plan to use the mower for a short period.
- Empty the tank before storage: If you won’t be using the mower for an extended period, drain the fuel tank completely to prevent it from going bad.
- Store the mower properly: Keep the mower in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent condensation.
- Use fuel within 30 days: Even with stabilizer, fuel will start to deteriorate after 30 days. If you’re unsure about the age of your fuel, consider replacing it.
Other Possible Causes of Lawn Mower Problems
While bad gas is a common culprit, other factors can contribute to lawnmower problems. Here’s a list of some common issues to consider:
- Spark plug issues: A fouled or damaged spark plug can prevent your mower from starting.
- Air filter blockage: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, leading to poor engine performance.
- Fuel line problems: Cracked or clogged fuel lines can prevent fuel from reaching the carburetor.
- Fuel pump malfunction: A faulty fuel pump can’t deliver fuel effectively, causing starting problems.
- Engine problems: More serious issues like a worn-out piston ring or a damaged cylinder can cause engine failure.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your mower still doesn’t run smoothly, it’s time to call in a professional mechanic. They have the experience and tools to diagnose and fix more complex problems.
Conclusion
Conquering bad gas in your lawnmower can be a simple and satisfying DIY project. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can get your mower back in top shape and ready to tackle your yard. Remember to prioritize safety, use the right tools, and dispose of old fuel responsibly. With a little preventative maintenance and careful fuel management, you can enjoy a smooth-running lawnmower for years to come!
FAQs
How long does bad gas stay in a lawn mower?
Gas can stay good for up to 3 months if it’s properly stored in a sealed container. However, if it’s left in your mower’s tank, it can start to deteriorate after just a few weeks. This is because the gasoline will evaporate, leaving behind a gummy residue that can clog your carburetor. The best way to avoid this problem is to use up the gas in your mower before it goes bad. If you’re not going to use your mower for a while, it’s best to drain the tank and store the gas in a sealed container.
What happens if you put bad gas in a lawn mower?
If you put bad gas in your lawn mower, it can cause a number of problems, including:
* Difficulty starting
* Rough running
* Stalling
* Reduced power
* Clogged carburetor
In severe cases, bad gas can even damage your lawn mower’s engine. If you think you might have put bad gas in your mower, it’s best to drain the tank and fill it with fresh gas. You can also try adding a fuel stabilizer to the tank to help prevent the gas from going bad.
How do you know if your gas is bad?
There are a few signs that your gas is bad:
* The gas has a strong, unpleasant odor.
* The gas has a cloudy or milky appearance.
* The gas has a gummy or sticky residue.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to drain the tank and fill it with fresh gas.
How do you get rid of bad gas in a lawn mower?
The best way to get rid of bad gas in your lawn mower is to drain the tank. You can do this by using a siphon or by tilting the mower and draining the tank through the fuel line. Once the tank is drained, you can fill it with fresh gas.
Can I use bad gas in a lawn mower?
It’s not recommended to use bad gas in your lawn mower. It can cause a number of problems, including:
* Difficulty starting
* Rough running
* Stalling
* Reduced power
* Clogged carburetor
* Engine damage
If you’re not sure if your gas is bad, it’s best to drain the tank and fill it with fresh gas.
Why is my lawn mower not running after adding fresh gas?
If your lawn mower is not running after adding fresh gas, there are a few things you can check:
- Make sure the fuel lines are clear.
- Make sure the carburetor is clean.
- Make sure the spark plug is clean and has a good spark.
- Make sure the air filter is clean.
If you’ve checked all of these things and your lawn mower still isn’t running, it’s best to take it to a qualified mechanic.
How do I prevent bad gas in my lawn mower?
The best way to prevent bad gas in your lawn mower is to use up the gas in the tank before it goes bad. If you’re not going to use your mower for a while, you can drain the tank and store the gas in a sealed container. You can also add a fuel stabilizer to the tank to help prevent the gas from going bad.