The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and your lawn is desperately in need of a trim. But before you can get to work, you need to make sure your trusty lawn mower is ready to go. And that means knowing how to put gas in it correctly. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, from identifying the gas tank to avoiding common mistakes. Whether you’re a seasoned lawn care pro or a first-time mower owner, this article will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to fuel up your mower safely and efficiently.
A Quick Overview
Filling a lawn mower’s gas tank is a relatively simple task. However, it’s crucial to understand the proper steps and safety precautions to ensure a smooth and safe fueling experience. This article will cover the following key points:
- Identifying the Gas Tank: Knowing where to put the gas is the first step.
- Choosing the Right Fuel: Using the wrong fuel can damage your mower.
- Filling the Tank Safely: Avoiding spills and overfilling is essential.
- Cleaning Up After Fueling: Proper cleanup ensures safety and prevents future issues.
- Troubleshooting Common Problems: Addressing any potential issues that might arise during the fueling process.
Identifying the Gas Tank
Finding the gas tank on your lawn mower is usually straightforward. It’s typically located:
- On the side: Many mowers have their gas tank positioned on the side, often behind or beside the engine.
- Under the seat: Some mowers might have the tank located under the seat, accessible after lifting the seat.
- Behind the handle: Less common, some models might have the gas tank positioned behind the handle.
Look for a rectangular or cylindrical container with a cap. The cap might be red or yellow, indicating it’s for gasoline.
H3. Finding the Fuel Tank Cap:
- Look for a small, usually circular cap with a release lever or a twist-to-open mechanism.
- The cap might be colored differently from the rest of the tank, like red or yellow.
- If you’re unsure, consult your mower’s manual.
Choosing the Right Fuel
Using the wrong fuel is a common mistake and can lead to serious damage to your lawn mower. The vast majority of modern gas-powered lawn mowers are designed to run on unleaded gasoline specifically blended for small engines.
H3. Understanding Fuel Types:
- Regular unleaded gasoline: This is the most common fuel for lawn mowers.
- Premium unleaded gasoline: While it offers higher octane, it’s not generally necessary for lawn mowers.
- Ethanol-blended gasoline: Most gasoline sold today contains ethanol, a biofuel. It’s important to note that high ethanol blends (above 10%) can lead to fuel issues in older lawn mowers.
H3. Checking Your Owner’s Manual:
- Always consult your mower’s owner’s manual: This will provide specific recommendations for the type of fuel and the ethanol percentage it can handle.
- Older mowers might require specific fuel blends: It’s crucial to consult the manual if your mower is older to avoid potential issues.
Filling the Tank Safely
Filling the lawn mower’s gas tank is a simple process, but there are important safety considerations to follow:
H3. 1. Stop the Engine:
- Always shut off the mower engine: Make sure it’s completely stopped and cooled before refueling. This prevents potential fire hazards.
- Move to a well-ventilated area: Do not refuel indoors or in enclosed spaces.
H3. 2. Remove the Gas Tank Cap:
- Loosen the cap gently: Don’t force it; apply steady pressure to release the cap.
- Place the cap securely nearby: To prevent contamination, avoid placing the cap on the ground or in areas where it can be easily lost.
H3. 3. Pour the Fuel Slowly and Carefully:
- Pour the gas directly into the tank opening: Use a fuel can designed for gasoline and avoid spills.
- Avoid overfilling the tank: Leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion.
- Wipe up any spills immediately: Clean spills using absorbent materials like paper towels or rags.
H3. 4. Replace the Gas Tank Cap:
- Tighten the cap securely: Ensure the cap is properly sealed to prevent leaks.
- Check for leaks: Once the cap is tightened, inspect the area around the filler neck for any signs of leaks.
Cleaning Up After Fueling
After fueling your lawn mower, it’s important to clean up any spills and dispose of fuel-soaked materials properly:
H3. 1. Dispose of Fuel-Soaked Materials:
- Do not throw fuel-soaked materials in the trash: This is a fire hazard.
- Store soaked materials in a sealed container: Use a metal or plastic container specifically designed for flammable waste.
- Dispose of containers properly: Follow local regulations for disposing of flammable waste.
H3. 2. Clean Spills:
- Use an absorbent material to clean up spills: Use paper towels, rags, or kitty litter.
- Avoid using water to clean spills: Gasoline and water do not mix, and using water can actually spread the spill.
- Dispose of cleaning materials properly: Dispose of contaminated materials in a sealed container as mentioned above.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Even when following these steps, you might encounter occasional issues during the fueling process. Here are some common problems and solutions:
H3. 1. Difficulty Removing the Gas Cap:
- Rust or corrosion: If the cap is stuck, try using a lubricant like WD-40.
- Damaged cap: If the cap is cracked or damaged, it needs to be replaced.
H3. 2. Leaking Gas Tank:
- Loose or damaged cap: Ensure the cap is securely tightened. If it’s damaged, replace it.
- Cracked or damaged tank: If the tank itself is cracked, you’ll need to replace it.
H3. 3. Mower Won’t Start After Fueling:
- Fuel line blockage: Inspect the fuel lines for blockages or debris.
- Air in the fuel system: Try bleeding the fuel system by opening the fuel valve and running the engine until gas flows freely.
- Spark plug issues: Check the spark plug for wear or damage and replace it if necessary.
Conclusion: Fueling Up Your Lawn Mower Made Easy
Fueling your lawn mower is a straightforward task, but it’s essential to follow the correct steps and safety procedures. By understanding the importance of using the right fuel, avoiding spills, and cleaning up properly, you can ensure a safe and efficient fueling experience. Remember to always consult your mower’s manual for specific recommendations and troubleshoot any issues you encounter. With this guide, you’ll be ready to fuel up your mower and conquer any lawn-mowing challenge.
FAQ
How do I know what type of gas to use in my lawn mower?
Most lawn mowers run on regular unleaded gasoline, which is typically an 87 octane rating. However, some newer models may require a higher octane rating, like 89 or 91. You can check your owner’s manual for specific instructions on the recommended gasoline type and octane rating. Using the wrong type of gas can damage your mower’s engine, so it’s important to use the recommended fuel.
Should I add oil to the gas?
No, you should never add oil to the gas tank of your lawn mower. Lawn mowers have a separate oil reservoir for their engines, and mixing oil with gas can severely damage the engine. If you’re unsure about the proper fuel mix, consult your owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic.
How much gas should I put in my lawn mower?
The amount of gas you should put in your lawn mower depends on the size of the tank. Most lawn mower tanks hold between 1 and 2 gallons of gas. It’s generally a good idea to fill the tank up, but avoid overfilling it, as this can cause spills and leaks.
How do I prevent spills when filling my lawn mower?
Spills are more likely to happen when you’re filling up your gas tank. Be careful when filling the tank and avoid overfilling it. You can also use a funnel to help prevent spills, as it directs the gas directly into the tank.
What should I do if I spill gas?
If you spill gas, it’s important to clean it up immediately. Wipe up any spills with a clean cloth and dispose of the cloth properly. You should also ensure that there are no sources of ignition nearby, such as open flames or electrical sparks, until the spilled gas evaporates.
Is it safe to store my lawn mower with gas in the tank?
It’s generally not recommended to store your lawn mower with gas in the tank. Over time, the gas can degrade and gum up the engine. It’s best to drain the tank and store the mower with an empty fuel tank.
How often should I change the gas in my lawn mower?
The gas in your lawn mower should be changed every 30 days or so, even if you don’t use it. This helps to prevent the gas from degrading and causing engine problems. It’s best to use fresh gas for every use. If your gas is sitting for a long time, it can lose its volatility, leading to problems starting your mower and running it smoothly.