How to Treat Old Gas in Your Lawn Mower?

The smell of fresh-cut grass, the gentle hum of your lawn mower, and the satisfaction of a perfectly manicured lawn – these are the joys of summer. But what happens when that joy turns into frustration because your lawn mower sputters and refuses to start? Old gasoline can be the culprit, causing problems like engine damage, clogged fuel lines, and a frustratingly difficult start-up. This article will guide you through the process of understanding how old gas affects your lawn mower, tackling the problem head-on, and ultimately getting your mower back in tip-top shape.

The Problem with Old Gas

Gasoline is a volatile substance, and over time, it breaks down. This breakdown leads to a number of problems:

Gum and varnish formation: The volatile compounds in gasoline evaporate, leaving behind sticky residues that can clog your fuel lines, carburetor, and fuel filter.

Reduced combustibility: The chemical composition changes, resulting in a fuel that doesn’t burn as efficiently, leading to poor engine performance.
Water absorption: Gasoline absorbs moisture from the air, leading to corrosion and engine damage.

These issues can result in a variety of problems, including:

Difficult starting: The engine struggles to ignite the fuel.
Rough running: The engine may sputter, cough, or misfire.
Reduced power: The mower may lose power and struggle to cut the grass.

Engine damage: In severe cases, old gas can lead to engine damage, requiring costly repairs.

How Long Does Gas Last in a Lawn Mower?

The lifespan of gasoline in your lawn mower depends on a few factors, including the quality of the fuel, storage conditions, and the fuel stabilizer used. Generally, unstabilized gasoline is good for about 30 days. However, with proper storage and the use of a fuel stabilizer, you can extend that lifespan to up to 12 months.

What to Do with Old Gas

The best way to avoid issues with old gas is to prevent it from accumulating in your mower. Here are some practical tips:

1. Use Fresh Gas

Always use fresh gasoline. Avoid topping off your tank, leaving space for potential expansion.

2. Stabilize Your Fuel

If you plan to store your mower for an extended period, consider using a fuel stabilizer. These additives prevent gum and varnish formation and extend the shelf life of gasoline.

3. Empty the Tank

If you know your gasoline is old, the best solution is to empty the tank. However, be aware that gasoline is flammable, and proper disposal is important. Here are some options:

Safely Disposing of Old Gas:

Contact your local waste management agency: They can advise on proper disposal options in your area.
Take it to a gas station: Many gas stations have designated containers for used oil and gasoline.
Use it in a small engine: If you have a small engine like a generator or pressure washer, you can use the old gas in those machines. However, make sure to use it quickly.

How to Treat Old Gas in Your Lawn Mower

If you suspect your mower has old gas, it’s time to take action. Here’s a step-by-step guide to treating the issue:

1. Check the Fuel Line

Before attempting to start the engine, check your fuel line for any signs of blockage or residue. If you find any debris, clean it out with a small wire brush or compressed air.

2. Drain the Fuel Tank

The most effective way to remove old gas is to drain the fuel tank. Here’s how:

Locate the fuel valve: Most lawn mowers have a fuel valve located near the tank. Turn it to the “off” position.
Disconnect the fuel line: Carefully disconnect the fuel line from the carburetor.
Drain the tank: Place a container under the tank and tilt the mower to drain the gasoline.

Reconnect the fuel line: Once the tank is empty, reconnect the fuel line and tighten the connection securely.

3. Clean the Carburetor

The carburetor is the heart of your lawn mower’s fuel system. Old gas can leave deposits in the carburetor, restricting fuel flow. To clean the carburetor, you can:

Use a carburetor cleaning kit: These kits contain a cleaning solution and a brush to remove debris from the carburetor’s internal parts.

Remove and disassemble the carburetor: This allows for a more thorough cleaning. However, it requires more technical knowledge and may not be suitable for all users.

Cleaning the Carburetor with a Cleaning Kit:

Disconnect the fuel line: Remove the fuel line from the carburetor.
Spray the carburetor cleaner: Apply carburetor cleaner to the carburetor’s intake and jets.

Use the brush: Use the included brush to scrub away any debris.
Repeat the process: Repeat the cleaning process until all visible debris is removed.
Rinse the carburetor: Rinse the carburetor with a stream of clean air or compressed air.

Reassemble the carburetor: Reassemble the carburetor and reconnect the fuel line.

4. Replace the Fuel Filter

The fuel filter is responsible for catching debris and preventing it from reaching the carburetor. If you suspect your fuel filter is clogged, it’s best to replace it. This is a relatively easy task and can be done with a basic set of tools.

5. Add Fresh Fuel

Once you’ve cleaned the fuel system, add fresh, stabilized gasoline to the tank. Avoid overfilling the tank.

6. Start the Engine

Try starting your lawn mower. If it still doesn’t start, you may have a different issue, such as a spark plug problem or a clogged air filter.

Other Tips for Maintaining Your Lawn Mower

In addition to treating old gas, here are a few other tips for keeping your lawn mower in good working order:

Regular maintenance: Perform regular maintenance tasks, such as changing the oil, cleaning the air filter, and sharpening the blade.

Store it properly: When not in use, store your lawn mower in a dry, well-ventilated area.
Use high-quality fuel: Use high-quality gasoline with a high octane rating.
Avoid leaving the gas tank full: A full tank can lead to evaporation and condensation, which can damage your engine.

Conclusion

Dealing with old gas in your lawn mower can be frustrating, but it’s a problem that can be solved with a little effort. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can clean your fuel system, remove the old gas, and get your mower running smoothly again. Remember, regular maintenance and proper storage are crucial for keeping your lawn mower in top condition and ensuring that you enjoy a trouble-free mowing season.

FAQs

What happens when you put old gas in a lawn mower?

Old gas can cause problems for your lawn mower. Over time, gasoline breaks down and loses its volatility, which is the ability to vaporize and burn. This can lead to a variety of issues, including:

Difficult starting: The lawn mower may have trouble starting because the old gas isn’t vaporizing properly, leading to an inadequate fuel mixture.

Engine performance issues: If the mower does start, it may run poorly with reduced power and potential stalling.
Gum and varnish buildup: Old gas can leave behind deposits of gum and varnish in the carburetor and fuel system, restricting fuel flow and potentially damaging these components.

How can I tell if the gas in my lawn mower is old?

Determining if the gas in your mower is old can be done by visually inspecting it and checking the date it was purchased. Here are some signs of old gas:

Color: Fresh gasoline is typically a light amber color, while old gas can become a darker, brownish shade.
Smell: Fresh gas has a strong, distinct smell, while old gas may have a more pungent or sour odor.
Sediment: Old gas may have sediment or debris at the bottom of the container.

Date: If you can’t remember when you last filled the tank, check the date on the gas container. Gasoline typically lasts for 3-6 months in a sealed container.

How can I treat old gas in my lawn mower?

Treating old gas in your lawn mower is not recommended. The best approach is to drain the old gas and replace it with fresh fuel. However, if you need to use the old gas, you can try adding a fuel stabilizer:

Fuel stabilizer: Fuel stabilizers help to prevent the breakdown of gasoline and extend its shelf life. You can add a fuel stabilizer to the old gas in your mower, following the instructions on the product label. However, this may not be completely effective for very old gas.

How do I drain the old gas from my lawn mower?

Draining the old gas from your lawn mower is a simple process. You will need:

A container to catch the gas (use a gas-safe container)
A wrench or socket (to remove the gas cap)

A siphon pump (optional, but helpful for draining larger quantities)
Locate the fuel tank: The fuel tank is usually located on the side or top of the mower.
Remove the gas cap: Unscrew the gas cap to access the tank.
Drain the gas: If using a siphon pump, insert the hose into the fuel tank and drain the gas into the container. If not using a siphon pump, tilt the mower over a container and let the gas drain out.

Replace the gas cap: Once the tank is empty, screw the gas cap back on securely.

What should I do with the old gas I drained?

Once you have drained the old gas from your lawn mower, it is important to dispose of it properly. Do not pour it down the drain or into the ground. Instead, follow these guidelines:

Check local regulations: Contact your local waste disposal authority to find out the proper disposal methods in your area.

Find a designated disposal site: Many local recycling centers or gas stations offer gas disposal services.
Mix with absorbent material: If there is no disposal site nearby, you can mix the old gas with an absorbent material like kitty litter or sawdust, seal it in a container, and dispose of it in the trash.

Can I use old gas for other things?

It is not recommended to use old gas for other things, such as cleaning or mixing with other fuels. This is because old gas can contain harmful chemicals that may damage other equipment or materials.

Cleaning: Old gas can be harsh on surfaces and can leave behind residue.
Other fuels: Old gas should not be mixed with other fuels, such as diesel or kerosene, as it can lead to combustion problems.

How can I prevent old gas in my lawn mower in the future?

To prevent old gas buildup in your lawn mower, follow these tips:

Use fresh gas: Always use fresh gasoline in your lawn mower.
Use fuel stabilizer: If you are storing your mower for a long period, add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank to extend its shelf life.
Empty the tank: Before storing your mower for an extended time, it’s best to drain the fuel tank completely.