The sweet smell of freshly cut grass is a sure sign of summer. But, what happens when your trusty lawnmower suddenly sputters and dies? It could be a number of issues, but one common culprit is water in the carburetor. This article will walk you through the steps of diagnosing and removing water from your lawnmower carburetor, so you can get back to mowing in no time.
Water in a carburetor can cause a number of problems, including:
- Engine stalling or sputtering: Water disrupts the fuel-air mixture, causing the engine to run poorly or die altogether.
- Difficult starting: Water can prevent the engine from starting by blocking the fuel flow.
- Corrosion: Over time, water can corrode internal engine components, leading to more serious damage.
But don’t worry! You don’t need to be a mechanic to fix this problem. By following the steps below, you can get your lawnmower running smoothly again.
Identifying the Problem: Is Water Really the Culprit?
Before you dive into the carburetor, let’s make sure water is the real issue. Here are some signs that point to water contamination:
- Sudden engine failure: If your mower was running fine and then suddenly died, particularly after rain or exposure to moisture, water is a likely suspect.
- Fuel smells like gasoline: This indicates that water hasn’t mixed with the gasoline yet.
- Fuel tank contains water: Look for visible water in the fuel tank. If you see it, that’s a sure sign of contamination.
If you suspect water in the carburetor, proceed with the following steps:
Step 1: Disconnecting the Fuel Line
Safety First: Before you begin, it’s essential to take safety precautions:
- Wear eye protection: Water in the carburetor may be mixed with fuel, which can be flammable and irritating.
- Work in a well-ventilated area: Avoid working in enclosed spaces where fumes can build up.
- Disconnect the spark plug: This prevents accidental starting while you’re working on the carburetor.
Now, let’s get started:
- Locate the fuel line: The fuel line connects the fuel tank to the carburetor.
- Trace the line: Follow the line back to the fuel tank and carefully disconnect it from the tank.
- Capture the fuel: Place a clean container or jar under the fuel line to catch any fuel that may drain out.
Step 2: Draining the Fuel Tank
Important Note: If you find visible water in the fuel tank, you’ll need to replace the fuel completely. Follow these steps:
- Remove the fuel cap: Carefully remove the cap from the fuel tank.
- Drain the fuel: Pour the fuel into a suitable container, making sure to discard it properly as it is no longer safe to use.
- Inspect for water: Look for any signs of water remaining in the tank.
- Dry the tank: Use a clean cloth or paper towels to dry the inside of the fuel tank.
Step 3: Cleaning the Carburetor
Note: For a thorough cleaning, removing the carburetor from the mower is usually the best option. However, for a quick fix, you can attempt to clean it in place.
To clean the carburetor:
- Locate the drain screw: The carburetor will usually have a small drain screw located on the bottom.
- Remove the screw: Carefully unscrew the drain screw using a small screwdriver.
- Drain the water: Allow the water to drain into a container.
- Replace the screw: Once the water is drained, tighten the drain screw securely.
Tip: If the water doesn’t drain completely, you can try gently tilting the mower to encourage more drainage.
Step 4: Replacing the Fuel
Once you’ve removed the water, it’s time to replace the fuel:
- Use fresh fuel: Ensure you use fresh, high-quality gasoline.
- Fill the tank: Refill the fuel tank with the new gasoline.
Step 5: Priming the Engine
To help get the engine running smoothly again, you may need to prime it:
- Locate the primer bulb: The primer bulb is usually located on the carburetor.
- Pump the bulb: Press the primer bulb several times until it feels firm.
Step 6: Starting the Engine
Finally, it’s time to start the engine:
- Reconnect the fuel line: Make sure the fuel line is securely connected to the carburetor.
- Connect the spark plug: Reconnected the spark plug wire to the spark plug.
- Start the engine: Follow the instructions for starting your specific lawnmower model.
Troubleshooting: When Things Don’t Go as Planned
If your lawnmower still refuses to start after following these steps, there could be other issues:
- Clogged fuel filter: The fuel filter may be clogged with debris or rust from the contaminated fuel.
- Fuel lines blocked: The fuel lines may have become blocked by debris or sediment.
- Carburetor problems: The carburetor itself may have internal damage caused by the water.
If you suspect any of these issues, it’s best to consult a qualified lawnmower repair technician for assistance.
Preventing Future Problems: Proactive Maintenance
The best way to avoid water in your lawnmower carburetor is to take some preventive measures:
- Use a fuel stabilizer: Add fuel stabilizer to your gasoline to prevent fuel degradation and water separation.
- Store fuel properly: Store gasoline in a sealed container in a cool, dry place to prevent condensation.
- Keep the fuel tank clean: Regularly clean the inside of the fuel tank to prevent debris and water accumulation.
- Cover the mower: Use a cover to protect the mower from rain and moisture when it’s not in use.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can effectively remove water from your lawnmower carburetor and get it running smoothly again. Remember, prevention is key. By following the proactive maintenance tips outlined above, you can significantly reduce the risk of water contamination and keep your lawnmower in top condition. Now you can get back to enjoying the smell of freshly cut grass with a properly functioning mower!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Why does water get into my lawnmower carburetor in the first place?
Water can get into a lawnmower carburetor in several ways. The most common culprit is moisture in the air, especially during humid weather or after rain. This moisture can condense in the carburetor, particularly when the engine is cold or has been sitting idle for a while. Another possibility is that water has splashed into the carburetor from the outside, for example, if you’ve been mowing in wet grass or if the mower was stored outside during a rain shower.
Q2. What are the signs of water in my lawnmower carburetor?
The most obvious sign of water in the carburetor is that your lawnmower won’t start or won’t run properly. You may hear a sputtering or coughing sound, or the engine may run sluggishly and eventually stall. Another indication could be a loss of power while mowing, or the engine may smoke excessively. If you suspect water in the carburetor, it’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage to the engine.
Q3. How do I drain the water out of my lawnmower carburetor?
To drain the water out of your lawnmower carburetor, you’ll need to remove the carburetor bowl. Locate the bowl on the bottom of the carburetor and remove the screws or clips holding it in place. Be careful not to lose any small parts. Once the bowl is off, you can carefully pour out any excess water or fuel. If necessary, you can also use a small tool like a screwdriver or toothpick to dislodge any debris or water that may be stuck in the bowl.
Q4. Can I use a hairdryer to dry out the carburetor?
While a hairdryer might seem like a quick solution, it’s not recommended. The heat from the hairdryer could damage the plastic parts of the carburetor, or even melt them. It’s best to let the carburetor air dry completely, which may take a few hours depending on the weather conditions.
Q5. What if the water is still in the carburetor after draining the bowl?
If the water persists even after draining the bowl, you may need to remove the carburetor from the engine and disassemble it further. This will allow you to thoroughly dry all the internal components. Be careful when disassembling the carburetor, as some parts are delicate and can be easily damaged. It’s best to consult a repair manual for your specific lawnmower model.
Q6. Is it possible to prevent water from getting into the carburetor?
While you can’t completely eliminate the risk of water entering the carburetor, there are some steps you can take to minimize the chances. First, avoid mowing in wet grass or during heavy rain. If you must mow in damp conditions, try to avoid splashing water onto the engine. Second, store your lawnmower in a dry place when not in use. Covering the mower with a tarp or storing it indoors can help protect it from rain and moisture.
Q7. Should I take my lawnmower to a mechanic if I can’t fix the water problem?
If you’re not comfortable disassembling the carburetor or if you’re still having trouble after trying to fix the issue yourself, it’s best to take your lawnmower to a qualified mechanic. They have the experience and tools to properly diagnose and fix the problem. A mechanic can also ensure that all the parts are functioning correctly and that the engine is running smoothly after the water issue is resolved.