The sweet smell of freshly cut grass is a quintessential sign of summer. But that enjoyment can quickly turn sour if your trusty lawn mower sputters and coughs instead of roaring to life. Old gasoline, a common culprit behind lawn mower woes, can cause a host of problems, from engine misfires to complete engine failure. This article will guide you through the process of getting rid of old gas in your lawn mower, ensuring a smooth and efficient mowing experience for the rest of the season.
In essence, removing old gas involves draining the fuel tank and replacing it with fresh, high-quality fuel. We’ll cover the best practices for draining the old gas, disposing of it safely, and filling the tank with fresh fuel. We’ll also explore tips for preventing fuel issues in the first place, ensuring your lawn mower stays in top shape for years to come.
Understanding the Problem: Why Does Old Gas Cause Issues?
Old gasoline undergoes a chemical process called “degradation,” which results in the formation of harmful byproducts. These byproducts can gum up fuel lines, clog fuel filters, and even corrode engine parts.
Here’s a breakdown of the key issues caused by old gas:
- Reduced Engine Performance: Old gas often contains a lower octane rating, leading to sputtering, misfiring, and decreased engine power.
- Clogged Fuel Lines and Filters: Gum and varnish build-up in the fuel system can restrict fuel flow, preventing proper combustion and causing engine stalling.
- Engine Damage: The corrosive nature of old gas can damage critical engine components, leading to costly repairs or even complete engine failure.
Ready to Drain? Steps for Getting Rid of Old Gas
1. Safety First: Protect Yourself and the Environment
- Wear Protective Gear: Gasoline is flammable and toxic. Always wear safety glasses, gloves, and long pants to protect your skin and eyes.
- Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Draining gas releases fumes, so ensure you are working in an open area with good ventilation.
- Avoid Open Flames: Keep any open flames, such as lighters or cigarettes, away from the work area.
2. Draining the Fuel Tank
- Locate the Drain Valve: Most lawn mowers have a drain valve located at the bottom of the fuel tank. It is usually a small, threaded plug.
- Prepare a Collection Container: Use a clean, sealable container, such as a metal gas can, to collect the drained gas. Make sure the container is labeled appropriately and securely sealed to prevent spills.
- Open the Drain Valve: Carefully loosen the drain valve and allow the fuel to drain into the collection container. It’s helpful to tilt the mower slightly to encourage complete drainage.
- Close the Drain Valve: Once the fuel has drained, tighten the drain valve securely to prevent leaks.
3. Disposing of Old Gas Safely
- Never Pour Old Gas Down the Drain: Gasoline is harmful to the environment and can contaminate water sources.
- Contact Local Waste Disposal Services: Check with your local government or waste disposal services for information on proper disposal methods. Many communities offer hazardous waste collection days or drop-off centers.
- Consider Using a Fuel Stabilizer: Adding a fuel stabilizer to your gas tank can help prevent degradation and extend the shelf life of your gasoline.
4. Filling with Fresh Fuel
- Use High-Quality Fuel: Always use fresh, high-octane gasoline specifically designed for lawn mowers.
- Avoid Mixing Old and New Gas: Never mix old gasoline with fresh fuel. This can create a potentially hazardous mixture.
- Fill the Tank to Capacity: Fill the tank to the recommended level, leaving some room for expansion in case of temperature fluctuations.
Preventive Measures: Keeping Your Lawn Mower Fuel Fresh
- Use Fuel Stabilizer: Regularly adding fuel stabilizer can help prevent gasoline degradation and extend its shelf life.
- Avoid Overfilling: Overfilling your tank can create pressure that forces fuel out through the vent, increasing the risk of spills and evaporative emissions.
- Store Your Mower Properly: When storing your lawn mower for the off-season, drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it runs out of fuel. This will prevent stale gas from sitting in the system.
Additional Tips for Smooth Operation
- Change the Air Filter: A dirty air filter restricts airflow to the engine, reducing performance and increasing fuel consumption.
- Check the Spark Plug: A worn or fouled spark plug can prevent proper ignition and lead to engine misfires.
- Replace the Fuel Filter: Regularly replacing the fuel filter helps ensure a smooth flow of fuel to the engine.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy Your Mowing Season with Fresh Fuel!
Getting rid of old gas in your lawn mower is a simple yet crucial step for ensuring a smooth and efficient mowing experience. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can prevent engine problems, protect the environment, and enjoy your lawnmower’s peak performance. Remember, maintaining your mower with fresh fuel and regular maintenance is key to a healthy lawn and a hassle-free mowing season.
FAQ
1. How long can I store gasoline in my lawnmower?
While gasoline can be stored for a few months in a properly sealed container, it’s best to avoid storing it for extended periods. The chemicals in gasoline degrade over time, losing their effectiveness and becoming less volatile. This can lead to engine issues, including difficulty starting, inconsistent running, and ultimately, damage. For optimal performance, use fresh gasoline and avoid storing it for more than 30 days.
For longer storage, consider using a fuel stabilizer, which slows down the degradation process and allows for safe storage for up to a year. However, it’s still best to use the oldest gasoline first and avoid using it beyond its recommended storage time.
2. What are the signs of old gasoline in a lawnmower?
The symptoms of using old gasoline in your lawnmower can be quite noticeable. You might experience difficulty starting the engine, inconsistent running, or even complete engine failure. Other signs include a decrease in power and speed, sputtering, and smoke coming from the engine. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s likely that your fuel is contaminated or has degraded, and replacing it with fresh gasoline should resolve the issue.
Additionally, if you find that your lawnmower runs poorly, even after a fresh fill of gasoline, it could be a sign that old gasoline has damaged components within your engine. In such cases, professional maintenance and possibly even repairs may be required.
3. How do I prevent old gasoline from causing problems?
Prevention is key to ensuring your lawnmower runs smoothly. Always use fresh gasoline and avoid storing it for extended periods. If you do need to store gasoline, ensure it’s in a properly sealed container and consider adding a fuel stabilizer.
It’s also essential to drain the old fuel from your mower at the end of the season. This will prevent any degradation from occurring in your fuel system and ensure that your lawnmower starts easily the next time you need to use it.
4. What should I do if I find old gasoline in my lawnmower?
If you discover old gasoline in your lawnmower, the first step is to drain it completely. You can then thoroughly clean the fuel tank and lines using a fuel-safe cleaner. Once cleaned, refill with fresh gasoline and start the engine to allow it to run for a few minutes to ensure all the old fuel is purged from the system.
If you notice any persistent issues, such as difficulty starting or running, it’s best to have your lawnmower checked by a professional mechanic. They can diagnose any underlying problems and ensure your lawnmower is running smoothly.
5. Can old gasoline damage my lawnmower?
Yes, old gasoline can damage your lawnmower in several ways. The degradation of gasoline produces varnish and gum deposits, which can clog fuel lines, injectors, and carburetors, ultimately leading to engine failure. It can also affect the fuel pump and other components within the fuel system, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
To avoid these issues, it’s best to use fresh gasoline and follow the recommended storage guidelines.
6. How can I tell if my lawnmower has been damaged by old gasoline?
If your lawnmower has been using old gasoline for a prolonged period, you might notice symptoms like difficulty starting, sputtering, or inconsistent running, even after replacing the fuel with fresh gasoline. These symptoms are often caused by varnish and gum deposits in the fuel system, which can require professional cleaning or even replacement of parts.
If you suspect your lawnmower has been damaged by old gasoline, it’s best to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic. They can diagnose any underlying problems and recommend the best course of action for repair or replacement.
7. How often should I change the gasoline in my lawnmower?
It’s best to use fresh gasoline in your lawnmower for each use. However, if you need to store gasoline, it’s generally safe for up to 30 days without a fuel stabilizer. For longer storage, consider adding a fuel stabilizer to help prevent degradation.
Always drain the fuel tank at the end of the season and refill it with fresh gasoline before starting your lawnmower the following year. This will ensure your lawnmower runs smoothly and prevents any issues from old fuel.