The frustration of a sputtering lawn mower is a familiar feeling for many homeowners. What started as a simple chore can quickly turn into a headache when your trusty machine refuses to cooperate. One common culprit behind this lawn mowing misery? Water in the gas tank. This article will guide you through the process of identifying and removing water from your lawn mower gas tank, getting you back on track to a well-manicured lawn in no time.
Understanding the Problem: Why Does Water Get in My Gas Tank?
Water in your gas tank might seem like an unlikely occurrence, but it’s actually a surprisingly common issue. Here’s why:
- Condensation: As temperatures fluctuate, moisture in the air can condense inside the gas tank, particularly if the tank is partially full.
- Leaky Gas Cap: A loose or damaged gas cap can allow water to seep into the tank.
- Fuel Storage: If you store your lawn mower for extended periods, condensation is more likely to form.
Water in the gas tank presents a few problems:
- Engine Stalling: Water doesn’t mix with gasoline, and it can cause the engine to sputter and stall.
- Fuel Line Corrosion: Water can corrode fuel lines and other engine components over time.
- Fuel Degradation: Water can break down gasoline, making it less effective and potentially causing engine damage.
Identifying Water in Your Gas Tank
The first step is confirming whether or not water is actually present. Here are a few telltale signs:
- Engine Problems: The most obvious symptom is your lawn mower stalling or sputtering during operation.
- Water in the Gas: If you see actual water in the gas tank, there’s no doubt about the cause.
- Fuel Line Problems: Rust or corrosion in the fuel lines could indicate water contamination.
How to Remove Water From Your Lawn Mower Gas Tank
Once you’ve confirmed the presence of water, it’s time to address the issue. Here’s a step-by-step guide to safely remove water from your lawn mower gas tank:
1. Gather Your Supplies
You’ll need the following materials:
- A siphon pump: This tool will be used to extract the water from the gas tank.
- A clear container: This will allow you to see the water as you siphon it out.
- Clean rags: These are useful for wiping up spills and cleaning the area around the gas tank.
- A funnel: This will help you pour the gas back into the tank after it has been drained and filtered.
- A gas filter: This will help remove any remaining water or debris from the fuel.
- A gas can: This will store the drained gas for future use.
2. Emptying the Gas Tank
Important Note: Always work in a well-ventilated area and never attempt to drain the gas tank near an open flame or heat source.
- Park your lawn mower on a level surface: This ensures even draining.
- Locate the gas tank: The tank is usually located on the side or top of the mower deck.
- Remove the gas cap: This will release any pressure inside the tank.
- Insert the siphon pump: Position the siphon pump’s nozzle inside the gas tank, making sure it reaches the bottom.
- Start siphoning: Follow the instructions for your specific siphon pump. The goal is to extract all the gas and any water present.
- Check for water: Observe the clear container. You should see a layer of water at the bottom, beneath the gas.
3. Cleaning and Filtering the Gas
- Pour the drained gas into a clean gas can: Leave the water in the container.
- Use a gas filter: This will remove any remaining water or debris from the fuel. Follow the instructions on your filter.
- Pour the filtered gas back into the lawn mower tank: Use the funnel to avoid spills.
4. Re-Fueling and Testing
- Add fresh gas to the tank: Ensure you are using clean, fresh gasoline.
- Start the lawn mower: Let the engine run for a few minutes to ensure that the water has been completely removed.
- Check for engine problems: If the mower continues to stall or sputter, there may be other issues besides water.
Preventing Future Problems: Maintaining Your Gas Tank
- Use a fuel stabilizer: Add a fuel stabilizer to your gas tank before storing your lawn mower for extended periods. This will help prevent condensation and fuel degradation.
- Keep the gas tank full: A full gas tank reduces the amount of air space available for condensation to form.
- Inspect and replace the gas cap: Ensure your gas cap is in good condition and seals properly.
- Regularly drain and clean the gas tank: Even with preventative measures, it’s a good practice to drain and clean the tank occasionally, particularly if you store your lawn mower for extended periods.
Beyond the Basics: Dealing with Stubborn Water
If the water in your gas tank seems persistent or if you’re dealing with a stubborn case of engine trouble, consider these options:
- Fuel line cleaning: Water contamination can cause rust and debris buildup in fuel lines. A thorough cleaning of the fuel lines might be necessary.
- Engine tune-up: If the water has caused significant engine damage, a professional engine tune-up might be required.
- Fuel filter replacement: The fuel filter can become clogged with debris and water, hindering fuel flow. Replacing the fuel filter is a good preventative measure.
Conclusion
Water in a lawn mower gas tank is a frustrating problem, but it’s one that you can address effectively. By following these steps, you can drain the water, clean the gas, and get your lawn mower running smoothly again. Remember, regular maintenance and preventative measures can go a long way in keeping your mower running at peak performance and preventing future water-related issues. With a little effort and these helpful tips, you’ll be back to conquering your lawn in no time.
FAQs
Why is there water in my lawnmower gas tank?
Water in a lawnmower gas tank is a common problem, especially if you store your mower for extended periods. It can enter the tank through the fuel cap vent, condensation forming inside the tank, or even from fuel that has been contaminated with water during transportation. Water and gasoline don’t mix, and it can cause serious engine problems.
If you suspect your lawnmower gas tank contains water, it’s crucial to take action to remove it. Ignoring the issue can lead to engine damage, including corrosion and rust, which can ultimately result in costly repairs or even replacement.
What are the signs of water in my lawnmower gas tank?
Several signs can indicate the presence of water in your lawnmower’s gas tank. One telltale sign is difficulty starting the mower, followed by sputtering or coughing sounds. The engine may also run inconsistently or stall. If you see water droplets or a milky appearance in the gas, this is a definitive indication of water contamination.
Another sign is rust or corrosion on the inside of the gas tank. You can check for this by removing the gas cap and looking inside. If you see any rust or corrosion, it’s likely that water has been present in the tank and needs to be addressed.
How do I get rid of water in my lawnmower gas tank?
The best way to remove water from your lawnmower’s gas tank is to drain it completely. First, disconnect the spark plug to prevent accidental starting. Then, carefully remove the gas cap and siphon the gas out of the tank, preferably into a container that allows you to see any water present.
Once you’ve drained most of the gas, you can use a turkey baster or a similar device to suck out any remaining water. Be careful not to suck up any dirt or debris. After draining the tank, dry it thoroughly with a clean cloth or compressed air.
Can I add fuel additives to get rid of the water?
While some fuel additives claim to help remove water from gasoline, it’s best not to rely on them alone. These additives are primarily designed to prevent water from accumulating in the first place. If your lawnmower has already been affected by water contamination, these additives may not be effective in removing it entirely.
It’s crucial to address the root cause of the water in the tank, which could be a leaky fuel cap or condensation. While additives may help prevent future problems, they are unlikely to solve an existing water contamination issue.
Should I use a fuel filter to remove water?
A fuel filter can help prevent water from entering the engine, but it may not be enough to remove water already present in the tank. The filter can trap some water, but it won’t eliminate all of it. Therefore, draining the tank and ensuring that the fuel lines and carburetor are free of water is still essential.
Using a fuel filter is a good preventative measure, but it shouldn’t replace proper maintenance practices like draining the tank regularly and checking for water contamination.
How can I prevent water from getting into my lawnmower gas tank?
To prevent water from entering your lawnmower gas tank, it’s important to take a few preventative measures. Ensure the fuel cap is tightly closed, as a loose or cracked cap can allow water to seep in. Additionally, try to avoid storing your mower in damp or humid environments.
Storing your mower in a dry and well-ventilated area can help prevent condensation from forming inside the tank. It’s also advisable to use a fuel stabilizer in the tank to prevent fuel deterioration during long storage periods.
What should I do if I see water in my lawnmower gas tank?
If you discover water in your lawnmower’s gas tank, the best course of action is to drain the tank completely. After that, clean and dry the tank thoroughly before refilling with fresh gasoline. It’s also a good idea to check the fuel lines and carburetor for any signs of water or corrosion.
If you suspect that the water contamination is due to a faulty fuel cap or condensation issues, address those problems promptly. Regularly checking for water in the tank can help you catch any issues early and prevent potential engine damage.