Starting your lawn mower only to be met with sputtering and coughing is a frustrating experience, especially when you’re eager to tackle your yard. The culprit often lies in bad gas, which can leave your mower struggling to run or even refusing to start at all. This article will guide you through the process of removing bad gas from your lawn mower, ensuring a smooth and efficient mowing experience. We’ll cover identifying the signs of bad gas, the steps for safely removing it, and tips for preventing this issue in the future.
The presence of bad gas in your lawn mower can be identified by a few common symptoms:
- Difficult Starting: You may struggle to start the engine, requiring multiple pulls or even a longer cranking time.
- Rough Running: The engine may sputter, cough, or run unevenly, indicating a lack of smooth fuel combustion.
- Engine Stalling: Your mower may stall unexpectedly, particularly when under load or at higher RPMs.
- Fuel Odor: A strong gasoline smell emanating from the mower could point to a leak or stale fuel.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to remove the bad gas and replace it with fresh fuel.
Identifying the Problem: Signs of Bad Gas
Before tackling the removal process, it’s crucial to understand the telltale signs of bad gas. Knowing what to look for will help you quickly diagnose the issue and take the necessary steps.
Visual Inspection of Fuel
A visual inspection of the fuel can often reveal the problem. Look for:
- Cloudy Appearance: Fresh gasoline should be clear and transparent. If your fuel appears cloudy or murky, it could be contaminated with water or other impurities.
- Sediment at the Bottom: Bad gas often settles with sediment at the bottom of the fuel tank. This sediment can clog fuel lines and impede fuel flow.
- Discoloration: Fuel that has been sitting for too long may develop a yellow or brown discoloration, indicating oxidation and deterioration.
Operational Indicators
Aside from visual cues, the way your lawn mower runs can also indicate bad gas.
Difficulty Starting
The most obvious sign is a struggle to start the engine. Bad gas can make it difficult for the spark plug to ignite the fuel mixture, resulting in a weak spark or even no spark at all.
Engine Hesitation and Stalling
A rough-running engine, characterized by sputtering, coughing, or hesitation, is another strong indicator. Bad gas can create an inconsistent fuel mixture, leading to uneven combustion and engine stalls.
Smell of Gasoline
A strong gasoline odor emanating from your mower can signify a leak or stale fuel. While this alone may not definitively point to bad gas, it’s worth investigating further.
Steps to Remove Bad Gas from Your Lawn Mower
Once you’ve confirmed the presence of bad gas, follow these steps to safely remove it from your lawn mower:
1. Safety First
Always prioritize safety when working with gasoline. Wear eye protection, gloves, and appropriate clothing. Ensure you’re working in a well-ventilated area and keep open flames and heat sources away.
2. Locate the Fuel Tank
The fuel tank is usually located on the side or top of your lawn mower. It might be equipped with a fuel cap or a lever for opening and closing the tank.
3. Drain the Fuel Tank
Carefully drain the fuel tank into a suitable container. Avoid spilling the fuel, as it can damage surfaces and be hazardous. It is advisable to use a fuel siphon for this purpose, as it simplifies the draining process and reduces the risk of spills. You can purchase a fuel siphon from most hardware stores.
4. Clean the Fuel Tank
Once you’ve drained the fuel tank, clean it thoroughly to remove any residue or sediment. Use a clean cloth or a specialized fuel tank cleaner for this purpose. Be sure to dry the tank completely before re-filling it.
5. Replace Fuel Filter
If your lawn mower has a fuel filter, it’s a good practice to replace it after draining the fuel tank. A new fuel filter will prevent any contaminants from entering the fuel system.
6. Refuel with Fresh Gas
After cleaning the tank, refill it with fresh, high-octane gasoline. Avoid using fuel that’s been sitting for a long time, as it’s likely to have degraded.
7. Prime the Engine (If Necessary)
Some lawn mowers require priming before starting. This usually involves pushing a primer bulb or lever to deliver a small amount of fuel to the carburetor.
8. Start and Run the Engine
With fresh fuel in the tank, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to allow the new fuel to circulate through the system. If the engine still exhibits any problems, there may be other issues beyond bad gas, and it’s best to seek professional help.
Tips for Preventing Bad Gas
Taking preventative measures can significantly reduce the chances of your lawn mower developing bad gas.
1. Use Fresh Fuel
Always use fresh, high-octane gasoline in your lawn mower. Avoid using fuel that’s been sitting for more than a month, as it may have started to degrade.
2. Store Fuel Properly
If you need to store fuel for a longer period, consider using a fuel stabilizer. Fuel stabilizers help prevent the degradation of gasoline, extending its shelf life.
3. Drain the Tank Before Storage
Before storing your lawn mower for the winter or for an extended period, it’s a good practice to drain the fuel tank completely. This will help prevent the fuel from deteriorating while the mower is not in use.
4. Clean the Fuel System Regularly
Regularly cleaning the fuel system, including the fuel tank, fuel lines, and fuel filter, can help prevent fuel from deteriorating and ensure a smooth running engine.
Conclusion
Dealing with bad gas in your lawn mower can be a frustrating experience, but by understanding the signs, following the correct steps to remove it, and adopting preventive measures, you can ensure a smooth and efficient mowing experience. Remember to prioritize safety, use fresh fuel, and store your mower properly to avoid this issue in the future. With a little effort and maintenance, your lawn mower will be ready to tackle any yard work with ease.
FAQs
1. Why does old gas go bad in my lawnmower?
Old gas goes bad due to a process called “oxidation” where the hydrocarbons in the gasoline react with oxygen in the air. This reaction forms gums and varnishes which can clog fuel lines, injectors, and carburetor parts, leading to engine problems. The evaporation of volatile components in gasoline also changes the mixture, making it difficult to ignite properly and causing engine misfires and stalling.
2. How do I know if my lawnmower has bad gas?
You can tell if your lawnmower has bad gas by noticing various signs such as:
- Difficulty starting: The engine struggles to start or sputters and dies after a short time.
- Engine running rough: The engine runs unevenly, misfires, or stalls frequently.
- Reduced power: The lawnmower lacks power and struggles to cut grass effectively.
- Fuel line issues: You might notice fuel leaking or dripping from the fuel lines or carburetor.
3. How do I remove bad gas from my lawnmower?
Removing bad gas from your lawnmower involves a few steps:
- Locate the fuel tank. It is usually found on the side or top of the lawnmower.
- Empty the fuel tank. Carefully pour the bad gas into a container that can be safely disposed of.
- Clean the fuel tank. Use a clean cloth to wipe out any remaining residue inside the tank.
- Replace the fuel filter. The fuel filter traps contaminants and prevents them from reaching the engine. A new fuel filter will help prevent any remaining bad gas from entering the engine.
- Refill the fuel tank with fresh gas.
4. How do I dispose of old gasoline safely?
Disposing of old gasoline should be done responsibly to protect the environment and prevent accidents. The best way is to take it to a hazardous waste disposal facility. They have the equipment and expertise to handle it safely. Alternatively, you can look for local gas stations or automotive shops that offer fuel disposal services. It’s important to never pour old gasoline down drains or into the ground as it can contaminate water sources and cause environmental damage.
5. Can I use a fuel stabilizer to prevent gas from going bad?
Yes, using a fuel stabilizer can help prevent gasoline from going bad in your lawnmower. Fuel stabilizers are additives that slow down the oxidation process and preserve the quality of the gas over time. Add the stabilizer to the gas tank before storing the mower for long periods.
6. How often should I change the gas in my lawnmower?
It is generally recommended to change the gasoline in your lawnmower every 30 days, especially if you live in a warm climate. However, if you use a fuel stabilizer, you can extend the storage time up to 6 months.
7. What are some tips for maintaining my lawnmower?
Maintaining your lawnmower regularly is crucial for ensuring its longevity and performance. Here are some tips:
- Change the oil: Change the oil regularly, as specified in your owner’s manual.
- Clean the air filter: A dirty air filter restricts airflow, reducing engine performance.
- Inspect the spark plug: A worn or fouled spark plug can cause engine problems.
- Sharpen the blade: A sharp blade ensures a clean cut and prevents damage to your lawn.
- Store properly: Store your lawnmower in a dry place, preferably covered.