The warm weather has arrived, and you’re ready to tackle that overgrown lawn. But when you reach for your trusty lawnmower, a familiar problem arises: it’s been sitting all winter, and the gas in the tank is as old as your last vacation. You wonder, can you even start it with this ancient fuel? This article will delve into the complexities of using old gas in a lawnmower, explore the potential problems it can cause, and provide practical tips on how to handle this situation. We’ll cover everything from identifying the signs of bad gas to understanding how to safely and effectively start your lawnmower.
In short, using old gas in a lawnmower can be problematic, but with careful inspection and some simple steps, you may be able to get your mower running again.
Why Old Gas Can Cause Trouble
Old gasoline undergoes a process called “degradation,” breaking down into harmful substances that can wreak havoc on your lawnmower’s engine. Here’s what happens:
The Breakdown of Gasoline
- Evaporation: The volatile compounds in gasoline evaporate over time, leaving behind a thick, gummy residue. This residue can clog fuel lines, carburetor jets, and other delicate parts of the engine.
- Water Absorption: Gasoline readily absorbs water from the air, leading to a separation of layers within the fuel tank. The water layer can rust internal components, corrode fuel lines, and cause engine problems.
- Oxidation: The oxygen in the air reacts with gasoline, creating a layer of varnish on the inside of the fuel tank, fuel lines, and carburetor. This varnish can clog the fuel system and prevent proper fuel flow.
The Impact on Your Lawn Mower
- Hard Starting or No Start: Clogged fuel lines and carburetor jets prevent fuel from reaching the engine, making it difficult or impossible to start.
- Poor Performance: A restricted fuel flow results in a lack of power, leading to sputtering, stalling, and uneven running.
- Engine Damage: Corrosion, varnish buildup, and clogged fuel systems can cause permanent damage to your lawnmower’s engine, leading to costly repairs.
Recognizing Signs of Old Gas
Before even attempting to start your lawnmower, it’s essential to assess the fuel in your tank. Here’s how to identify the signs of old gas:
Visual Inspection
- Color: Fresh gasoline is typically clear or slightly yellowish. Old gasoline can appear discolored, often turning a darker yellow, amber, or even brown.
- Residue: If you see a layer of sediment or varnish on the bottom of the fuel tank, it’s a clear indication of old gas.
Smell Test
- Sharp Odor: Fresh gasoline has a strong, pungent odor. Old gas loses its sharpness and develops a more musty or stale smell.
The Importance of Fuel Stabilizer
While the process of gasoline degradation is inevitable, fuel stabilizer can significantly slow it down.
How Fuel Stabilizer Works
- Antioxidant Properties: Fuel stabilizer contains antioxidants that prevent the oxidation of gasoline, reducing the formation of varnish and sediment.
- Water Absorption: Some fuel stabilizers also contain water-absorbing agents that remove moisture from the fuel, reducing the risk of corrosion.
When to Use Fuel Stabilizer
- Before Storing: Add fuel stabilizer to your lawnmower’s tank before storing it for extended periods.
- After a Long Break: If your lawnmower has been sitting idle for several months, consider adding stabilizer before starting it.
Starting Your Lawn Mower with Old Gas
If you suspect old gas in your lawnmower, proceed with caution. Here’s a step-by-step approach to starting your lawnmower safely:
1. Inspect the Fuel Tank
- Visual Inspection: Look for any signs of discoloration, sediment, or varnish.
- Smell Test: Check the smell of the gasoline. If it’s musty or stale, it’s likely old.
2. Drain and Replace the Fuel
- If the gas is visually or by smell questionable, it’s best to drain the tank entirely.
- Use a siphon pump or a container to carefully remove the old fuel.
- Dispose of the old gas properly in accordance with local regulations. (Never pour old gas down the drain or into the soil.)
3. Refuel with Fresh Gas
- Fill the tank with fresh, high-quality gasoline.
- Consider adding a fuel stabilizer to the fresh gas.
4. Try Starting the Mower
- If the old gas was not overly degraded, the lawnmower may start with the fresh fuel.
- If it doesn’t start immediately, give the fuel system time to circulate the new gas.
5. If It Doesn’t Start
- Check for spark: Ensure the spark plug is firing correctly.
- Clean the carburetor: A clogged carburetor is a common cause of starting problems.
- Check the fuel filter: Replace the fuel filter if it’s dirty or clogged.
Prevention is Key
To avoid the hassle of old gas in the future, consider these preventive measures:
- Use Fuel Stabilizer: Always add fuel stabilizer to your lawnmower’s tank before storing it.
- Run the Engine Dry: Before storing, run your lawnmower for a few minutes to empty the fuel lines and carburetor.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Store your lawnmower in a dry, well-ventilated area to minimize the effects of moisture and temperature fluctuations.
Conclusion
Dealing with old gas in a lawnmower can be a challenge, but by understanding the potential problems and following the tips outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of getting your mower running again. Remember that prevention is always the best approach. By using fuel stabilizer and storing your lawnmower properly, you can avoid the headaches of old gas and ensure a smooth and enjoyable mowing season.
FAQ
1. How old is too old for gasoline in a lawnmower?
Gasoline starts to degrade after about 30 days, and it continues to deteriorate over time. The main culprits are the volatile components evaporating, which leads to a lower octane rating. This will make the fuel less efficient and may even damage your lawnmower.
If you have gasoline that’s more than a few months old, it’s best to use a fuel stabilizer to help slow down the degradation process. However, even with a stabilizer, it’s generally recommended to use gasoline within a year of purchase.
2. What are the signs of old gas in a lawnmower?
The most noticeable sign of old gas is a decrease in performance. The lawnmower may sputter, hesitate, or simply refuse to start. You may also notice a change in the color of the gasoline. Fresh gasoline is typically a clear amber color, while older gasoline can be a darker yellow or even brown.
If you see any of these signs, it’s a good idea to drain the old gas and refill with fresh, stabilized gasoline.
3. Can old gas damage a lawnmower?
Yes, old gas can damage a lawnmower. The gum and varnish that form in old gasoline can clog fuel lines and injectors, which can lead to engine problems. The most common problem is a lack of power or difficulty starting. However, if the buildup is severe enough, it can cause damage to the engine that requires expensive repairs.
It’s best to prevent this damage by using fresh gasoline and a fuel stabilizer.
4. How do I drain old gas from my lawnmower?
To drain old gas from your lawnmower, you will need a container to collect the fuel and a wrench to remove the fuel cap. First, locate the fuel tank on your lawnmower and unscrew the fuel cap. Next, carefully pour the gasoline into the container.
Once the fuel tank is empty, replace the fuel cap and dispose of the old gasoline properly. You can check with your local recycling center or hazardous waste disposal facility for the proper disposal method.
5. How do I prevent old gas in my lawnmower?
The best way to prevent old gas in your lawnmower is to use it regularly. If you don’t use your lawnmower often, you can add a fuel stabilizer to the gasoline. Fuel stabilizers help to prevent the gasoline from degrading and forming gum and varnish.
You can also consider storing the gasoline in a separate container with a fuel stabilizer to minimize the risk of contamination in your lawnmower’s tank.
6. What type of fuel stabilizer should I use?
There are many types of fuel stabilizers available on the market. The most important thing to look for is a stabilizer that is designed for gasoline. Some stabilizers are also designed for other fuels, such as diesel, so be sure to read the label carefully.
Fuel stabilizers generally work by adding chemicals to the gasoline that help to prevent oxidation and the formation of gum and varnish.
7. Can I mix old and new gas?
While it’s not ideal, you can mix old and new gas in a pinch. However, it’s not recommended as the old gas can still contain contaminants that can affect the performance of your lawnmower. If you must mix old and new gas, it’s best to use a ratio of at least 50% new gasoline.
If you have old gas in your lawnmower, it’s best to drain it and refill with fresh, stabilized gasoline. It’s also a good practice to use all the gasoline in your mower within a few months to prevent problems.