Ever started your lawn mower only to find it sputtering and coughing like it’s about to give up the ghost? You might be dealing with the dreaded water in the gas problem. This common issue can plague any mower owner, especially during the rainy season or when storing your machine for long periods. Luckily, getting water out of your lawn mower’s fuel is achievable and doesn’t require a trip to the mechanic. This guide will walk you through the process, explaining why water gets into your gas, how to identify the problem, and the steps to effectively remove it.
What is the Problem with Water in Lawn Mower Gas?
Water in gasoline is a recipe for disaster in your lawn mower. It can lead to engine damage, clogged fuel lines, and a frustrating inability to start your mower. Here’s why:
- Water doesn’t mix: Water and gasoline don’t play nicely together. They separate, and the water settles to the bottom of the fuel tank, often in the carburetor, creating a barrier that prevents the engine from drawing fuel efficiently.
- Corrosion: Water can corrode the delicate internal components of your mower, leading to premature wear and tear. Rust can form in the fuel tank, fuel lines, and carburetor, causing blockages and engine issues.
- Engine problems: Water in the gas can cause the engine to misfire, sputter, and eventually stall completely. The engine may have difficulty starting, run poorly, and lose power.
How Does Water Get into Lawn Mower Gas?
Water can sneak into your lawn mower’s gas tank in a variety of ways:
- Condensation: When the temperature changes, moisture in the air can condense inside the tank, forming water droplets.
- Leaking fuel caps: If your fuel cap is cracked or damaged, rain or dew can seep into the tank.
- Storage: Long-term storage, especially during humid conditions, can lead to condensation buildup inside the tank.
- Improper filling: If you fill the tank all the way to the brim, there might not be enough space for the gasoline to expand when it warms up, forcing some out and allowing water in.
- Bad fuel: Sometimes, the gas you purchase can already contain moisture, especially if it’s been sitting in a gas station tank for a long time.
Signs of Water in Your Lawn Mower Gas
Identifying water in your fuel tank can be challenging, but these signs are common:
- Difficulty starting: The engine might crank but won’t start or sputters and dies after a few seconds.
- Rough running: The engine might idle unevenly, misfire, or lose power when you try to accelerate.
- Backfiring: You might hear pops or bangs coming from the engine, indicating a misfire or combustion issue.
- Fuel smell: A strong gas smell around the mower could signify a leak, but it could also indicate condensation in the tank.
- Water in the carburetor: If you can see water droplets in the carburetor, you definitely have a moisture problem.
How to Get Water Out of Lawn Mower Gas
If you suspect water in your gas, don’t panic! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to remove it:
1. Drain the Fuel Tank
Materials:
* A clean container to collect the fuel (at least 2 gallons)
* A wrench or socket to remove the fuel cap
Instructions:
- Safety First: Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from potential spills.
- Choose a safe location: Find a well-ventilated area away from any open flames or heat sources.
- Remove the fuel cap: Use a wrench or socket to loosen and remove the fuel cap.
- Drain the tank: Tilt the mower on its side, being careful not to damage the fuel lines. Allow the fuel to drain into your container until it stops flowing.
- Inspect: Examine the drained fuel for signs of water. If you see any water droplets, you’ve confirmed the problem.
2. Dry the Fuel Tank
Materials:
* Clean rags or paper towels
* A funnel
* Fuel line cleaner (optional)
Instructions:
- Dry the inside: Use clean rags or paper towels to dry the inside of the fuel tank as much as possible.
- Use fuel line cleaner: (Optional) Pour some fuel line cleaner into the tank to help remove any remaining residue. Follow the directions on the product label.
- Rinse with clean gasoline: Pour some fresh gasoline into the tank and swirl it around to rinse it thoroughly.
- Dry again: Drain the gasoline and dry the tank with clean rags or paper towels.
3. Remove Water from the Carburetor (If Necessary)
Materials:
* A screwdriver
* Carburetor cleaning kit (optional)
* Shop rags
Instructions:
- Remove the carburetor: Refer to your mower’s manual for specific instructions on removing the carburetor. It typically involves loosening screws and disconnecting fuel lines.
- Inspect the carburetor: Look for any water droplets or signs of corrosion.
- Clean the carburetor: Use a carburetor cleaning kit or a shop rag dipped in fuel line cleaner to thoroughly clean the carburetor.
- Reinstall the carburetor: After cleaning, reassemble the carburetor and reinstall it on the engine.
4. Refill the Fuel Tank
Materials:
* Fresh gasoline
Instructions:
- Fill the tank: Pour fresh gasoline into the tank, but don’t fill it all the way to the top. Leave some space for the fuel to expand.
5. Start the Engine
Instructions:
- Try starting the engine: Now that the water is removed, your lawn mower should start and run smoothly.
How to Prevent Water in Lawn Mower Gas
To avoid future issues with water in your gas, follow these preventive measures:
- Use a fuel stabilizer: Add fuel stabilizer to your gas tank before storing your mower for extended periods. This helps prevent condensation and keeps the fuel fresh.
- Fill the tank when it’s close to empty: Avoid filling the tank all the way to the top, leaving space for expansion and minimizing the chance of water seeping in.
- Store your mower in a dry place: Keep your mower in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent condensation buildup in the tank.
- Inspect the fuel cap regularly: Make sure your fuel cap is tight and free of cracks. Replace it if necessary.
- Use fresh gasoline: Always buy gasoline from a reputable gas station and use it within a few months to minimize the risk of moisture contamination.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you’ve followed the steps above but your lawn mower still won’t start or runs poorly, consider these additional troubleshooting tips:
- Check the spark plug: A faulty spark plug can prevent the engine from firing. Replace the spark plug if it’s worn or damaged.
- Check the air filter: A clogged air filter can restrict airflow and affect engine performance.
- Examine the fuel lines: Look for any cracks, kinks, or blockages in the fuel lines.
- Consult a professional: If you’re still having problems, it’s best to take your mower to a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and repair.
Conclusion
Water in your lawn mower’s gas can be a frustrating problem, but it’s usually easy to fix with a little DIY effort. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can remove water from your fuel tank, clean the carburetor, and get your mower running smoothly again. Remember to implement preventive measures to avoid future water contamination and keep your lawn mower running strong for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Why does water get into my lawn mower’s gas tank?
Water can get into your lawn mower’s gas tank through a few different ways. First, condensation can form inside the tank when there are temperature fluctuations. Second, if the gas cap is not tightly sealed, water can seep in. Finally, if the mower is stored outside and exposed to rain, water can directly enter the tank.
It’s important to note that even if the gas tank is sealed, small amounts of water can still enter the tank through the vent line. This vent line is necessary to equalize pressure changes in the tank, but it can also allow water vapor to enter.
Q2: What are the signs that water is in my lawn mower’s gas?
Water in your lawn mower’s gas can cause several problems, including difficulty starting, sputtering, and even engine damage. Some signs that water is in your gas include:
- Difficulty starting: Water can prevent the spark plug from igniting the fuel mixture, making it difficult to start the mower.
- Sputtering: Water in the gas can cause the engine to sputter and run poorly.
- Engine damage: Water can damage engine components, such as the carburetor and fuel lines, over time.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to check your gas tank for water.
Q3: How can I prevent water from getting into my lawn mower’s gas tank?
The best way to prevent water from getting into your lawn mower’s gas tank is to follow these tips:
- Store your mower indoors: Storing your mower indoors will help protect it from rain and condensation.
- Keep the gas cap tightly sealed: Make sure the gas cap is properly tightened after each use.
- Use a fuel stabilizer: Fuel stabilizer helps prevent condensation and oxidation, which can lead to water formation.
By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of water getting into your lawn mower’s gas tank.
Q4: How do I remove water from my lawn mower’s gas tank?
To remove water from your lawn mower’s gas tank, you’ll need to siphon the gas and then drain the water from the bottom of the tank. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Siphon the gas: Use a siphon pump or a hose to remove the gas from the tank. Be sure to siphon into a container that’s specifically designed for gasoline.
- Drain the water: Once the gas has been removed, tilt the tank and carefully drain the water from the bottom of the tank.
- Dry the tank: Wipe the inside of the tank dry with a clean cloth.
You can then add fresh fuel to the tank and ensure the gas cap is properly sealed.
Q5: Can I use a fuel water separator?
Yes, a fuel water separator is a device that can help prevent water from entering your lawn mower’s gas tank. These devices are typically installed in the fuel line and use a filter to separate water from the gasoline.
Fuel water separators can be helpful in preventing water damage to your engine, but they are not a guaranteed solution. It’s still important to follow the other tips for preventing water contamination, such as storing your mower indoors and keeping the gas cap tightly sealed.
Q6: Is it safe to use gasoline that has been contaminated with water?
No, it’s not safe to use gasoline that has been contaminated with water. Water can cause a variety of problems, including:
- Engine damage: Water can damage engine components, such as the carburetor and fuel lines.
- Difficulty starting: Water can prevent the spark plug from igniting the fuel mixture.
- Poor performance: Water can cause the engine to run poorly.
If you suspect that your gasoline has been contaminated with water, it’s best to drain the tank and refill with fresh gasoline.
Q7: What if the water contamination is severe?
If the water contamination is severe, it may be necessary to take your lawn mower to a mechanic for professional repair. A mechanic can inspect the engine and fuel system for damage and recommend the necessary repairs.
In addition to repairing any damage, the mechanic may also need to clean or replace the fuel system components, such as the fuel filter, fuel lines, and carburetor. It’s important to address severe water contamination promptly to prevent further damage to your lawn mower.