Imagine this: you’re ready to tackle your overgrown lawn, but when you pull the starter cord, your lawn mower sputters and dies. You check the fuel, and it looks… watery. Water in your gas tank is a common problem, and it can be a real pain. Luckily, it’s usually fixable. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps of diagnosing and removing water from your lawn mower’s gas tank, as well as offer tips on preventing it from happening in the first place.
A Quick Overview
Water in your lawn mower’s gas tank can cause serious problems. It can prevent the engine from starting, cause corrosion and damage to internal parts, and even lead to a complete engine failure. Fortunately, most cases of water in the gas tank are relatively easy to fix. The key is to remove the water, dry out the tank, and take preventative measures to stop it from happening again.
How Water Gets Into Your Gas Tank
Water can find its way into your lawn mower’s gas tank through a few different routes:
1. Condensation:
This is the most common culprit. When the temperature outside changes, the air inside the gas tank can condense into water droplets. This is especially likely to happen in humid environments or when you store your mower in a garage or shed that experiences significant temperature fluctuations.
2. Leaky Fuel Cap:
A damaged or improperly sealed fuel cap can allow moisture to seep into the tank. If your fuel cap is cracked, missing a gasket, or not properly tightened, water can find its way in.
3. Filling with Contaminated Fuel:
Water can sometimes be present in the gasoline itself, especially if you’re using older or improperly stored fuel.
4. Storing Your Mower with Water in the Tank
If you leave your lawn mower with fuel in the tank for long periods, condensation can form and mix with the fuel.
Signs of Water in Your Lawn Mower’s Gas Tank
Here are some telltale signs that water might be lurking in your lawn mower’s fuel:
- Difficult starting: The engine may sputter, cough, and struggle to turn over.
- Engine stalls or dies: This is especially noticeable under load, such as when mowing uphill.
- Fuel appears cloudy or milky: This is a clear indication of water contamination.
- Fuel line blockage: Water can freeze in cold weather and cause a blockage in the fuel line.
How to Get Water Out of Your Lawn Mower’s Gas Tank
Once you’ve identified water in your gas tank, it’s time to take action. Here’s how to remove it:
1. Empty the Gas Tank
The first step is to siphon the contaminated fuel out of the gas tank. Here’s how:
- Safety First: Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from spills.
- Choose a Safe Container: Find a clean, non-flammable container that is large enough to hold the fuel. A glass jar or plastic container works well.
- Siphon the Fuel: Use a siphon pump or a length of tubing to drain the gas from the tank.
- Avoid Contact with the Water: If you see water at the bottom of the tank, be careful not to suck it up with the fuel. Try to drain the fuel without disturbing the water.
2. Dry the Gas Tank
After draining the fuel, you need to dry out the gas tank completely.
- Use a Shop Towel: If the water is visible, use a shop towel to absorb it.
- Ventilation: Allow the tank to air dry thoroughly.
- Consider a Hairdryer: For faster drying, you can use a hairdryer on a low setting.
3. Inspect the Fuel Cap:
Carefully inspect the fuel cap to ensure it is free of damage and properly sealed. Replace it if necessary.
4. Refuel with Fresh Fuel:
Once the gas tank is completely dry, fill it with fresh, high-quality gasoline. It’s best to use fuel that has been stabilized and stored properly.
5. Run the Engine:
Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to ensure the water is completely cleared from the fuel system.
Preventative Measures:
Once you’ve removed the water, it’s essential to take steps to prevent it from happening again:
1. Store Your Mower Properly:
- Empty the Gas Tank: Whenever possible, drain the fuel tank before storing your lawn mower. This eliminates the chance of condensation.
- Add Fuel Stabilizer: If you must store your mower with fuel in the tank, add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from degrading and attracting moisture.
- Store in a Dry Place: Choose a dry, well-ventilated location to store your mower.
2. Inspect Your Fuel Cap:
Regularly check your fuel cap for damage and make sure it is properly sealed. Replace it if necessary.
3. Use Fresh Fuel:
Always use fresh, high-quality gasoline. Avoid using fuel that has been sitting for a long time, as it may have absorbed moisture.
Additional Tips for Dealing with Water in Your Lawn Mower’s Gas Tank
- Don’t Use a Water Absorbent: Avoid using commercial water absorbents in your gas tank. These products can leave behind residue that can clog fuel lines and cause further problems.
- Replace the Fuel Filter: If you suspect that water contamination has affected your fuel filter, it’s a good idea to replace it.
- If all else fails: If you’re still having trouble with water in your gas tank, consult a qualified lawn mower mechanic.
Conclusion:
Water in a lawn mower’s gas tank can be a frustrating problem, but it’s not always a sign of serious trouble. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can remove the water, dry out the tank, and prevent future problems. Always use fresh fuel, store your mower properly, and check your fuel cap regularly to keep your lawn mower running smoothly for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does water get in my lawn mower gas tank?
Water can get into your lawn mower’s gas tank in a few ways. The most common is condensation. When the temperature drops, the air in the gas tank cools and the moisture in the air condenses into water droplets. This water can then mix with the gas and cause problems. Another way water can get into your tank is through the gas cap. If the gas cap is cracked or damaged, it can allow water to seep in. Finally, if your lawn mower is stored outside, rain or snow can get into the gas tank.
What are the signs of water in the gas tank?
There are a few signs that water may be in your lawn mower’s gas tank. One is that the engine won’t start or runs poorly. This is because water can’t burn and can clog the fuel lines. Another sign is that you see water in the gas tank. This is usually a clear indication that water has gotten in. If you see any of these signs, it’s important to remove the water from the gas tank as soon as possible.
How do I remove the water from my lawn mower’s gas tank?
You can remove water from your lawn mower’s gas tank by siphoning it out. To do this, you’ll need a siphon pump and a clean container. First, remove the gas cap and insert the siphon hose into the gas tank. Then, start the siphon pump and let it run until all of the water is removed. If you don’t have a siphon pump, you can also try draining the gas tank by tilting the lawn mower over a container. Be careful not to spill the gas.
Can I just drain the gas and refill it?
You can drain the gas and refill it, but this won’t necessarily remove all of the water. Water is heavier than gasoline, so it will settle to the bottom of the gas tank. You can try to shake the gas tank to mix the water and gas, but this may not be effective. The best way to remove the water is to siphon it out.
Will a gas additive help?
A gas additive can help to prevent water from forming in the gas tank, but it won’t remove water that is already there. If you have water in your gas tank, you need to remove it first. Then, you can add a gas additive to help prevent water from forming in the future.
What should I do if my lawn mower won’t start after removing water?
If your lawn mower won’t start after removing the water, there may be other problems. For example, the water may have damaged the fuel lines or the carburetor. In this case, you will need to take your lawn mower to a qualified mechanic for repair.
How can I prevent water from getting into my gas tank in the future?
There are a few things you can do to prevent water from getting into your lawn mower’s gas tank in the future. First, use a gas cap that is in good condition and seals tightly. Second, keep your lawn mower stored in a dry place, out of the rain and snow. Third, add a gas additive to your gas tank to help prevent water from forming. If you follow these tips, you can help to keep your lawn mower running smoothly.