The roar of a freshly tuned lawn mower on a sunny afternoon is a familiar sound of summer. But before you fire up that engine, there’s a crucial question: what kind of gas should you be using? This article will delve into the world of gasoline for lawn mowers, exploring the different types, their pros and cons, and how to choose the right fuel for your specific needs. We’ll also discuss important factors like storage, fuel additives, and troubleshooting potential fuel-related issues.
In a nutshell, the best gas for your lawn mower is regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Avoid using fuel with ethanol blends higher than 10%, as it can cause problems like carburetor clogging and fuel line deterioration.
Understanding the Basics: Unleaded vs. Leaded Gasoline
The first step to choosing the right fuel is understanding the types available. While leaded gasoline was once the standard, it’s no longer recommended for most modern lawn mowers.
Unleaded Gasoline: The Preferred Choice
Unleaded gasoline is the most common type used in lawn mowers today. Here’s why:
- Environmentally Friendly: Unleaded gasoline doesn’t contain lead, a harmful substance that can damage the environment and cause health problems.
- Engine Compatibility: Modern lawn mower engines are designed to run efficiently on unleaded fuel.
- Availability: Unleaded gasoline is readily available at most gas stations.
Leaded Gasoline: A Thing of the Past
Leaded gasoline, while still available in some areas, is not recommended for most lawn mowers.
- Engine Damage: Lead can build up in the engine and damage components like spark plugs and valves.
- Environmental Concerns: Leaded gasoline releases harmful lead emissions into the atmosphere.
Remember: Always consult your lawn mower’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended fuel type.
Octane Ratings: What Does It Mean for Your Mower?
Octane rating is a measure of a fuel’s resistance to knocking or pinging. A higher octane rating means the fuel can withstand higher compression before igniting prematurely.
Choosing the Right Octane
- Recommended Octane: Most lawn mower engines require regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher.
- High Octane (89+): While using higher octane gasoline won’t hurt your mower, it’s not necessary and may be a waste of money.
- Lower Octane (85 or Below): Using gasoline with an octane rating lower than recommended can cause knocking or pinging, potentially damaging your engine.
The Role of Ethanol in Lawn Mower Fuel
Ethanol is a biofuel often added to gasoline. It’s intended to improve air quality and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. However, it can pose problems for lawn mowers.
Understanding Ethanol’s Impact
- Corrosion: Ethanol can corrode fuel lines, carburetors, and other engine components, leading to malfunctions.
- Phase Separation: Ethanol can separate from gasoline over time, causing problems with fuel delivery.
- Fuel Stability: Ethanol blends can deteriorate faster than pure gasoline, especially in storage.
Choosing Ethanol-Free Fuel
- Best Practice: For optimal performance and longevity, opt for ethanol-free gasoline or blends with no more than 10% ethanol.
- Availability: Ethanol-free gasoline can be found at some gas stations, often labeled as “non-oxygenated” or “recreational gasoline.”
Storage and Maintenance: Keeping Your Fuel Fresh
Storing gasoline properly is crucial to prevent fuel deterioration and ensure your lawn mower runs smoothly.
Storing Gasoline Correctly
- Fuel Stabilizer: Add a fuel stabilizer to gasoline stored for longer than a month.
- Airtight Containers: Store gasoline in approved, airtight containers.
- Cool, Dry Location: Store containers in a cool, dry location away from heat and sunlight.
Regular Maintenance
- Fuel Filter: Replace the fuel filter regularly, especially if you use gasoline with higher ethanol blends.
- Carburetor Cleaning: Clean the carburetor periodically to prevent buildup from ethanol and other contaminants.
Troubleshooting Fuel-Related Issues
Fuel problems can manifest in various ways. Here’s how to identify and address them.
Common Signs of Fuel Problems
- Engine Won’t Start: A common culprit is stale gasoline or a clogged fuel filter.
- Engine Stalls or Runs Rough: This could indicate a clogged carburetor or issues with fuel delivery.
- Poor Performance: Fuel problems can lead to decreased engine power and performance.
Troubleshooting Steps
- Check the Fuel: Inspect the fuel for signs of age or contamination. If it looks discolored or smells bad, drain it and replace it with fresh gasoline.
- Replace Fuel Filter: A clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow.
- Clean the Carburetor: If the carburetor is dirty, clean it thoroughly.
- Check for Leaks: Inspect the fuel lines for leaks and repair any found.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Fuel for Your Lawn Mower
By understanding the different types of gasoline and their impact on your lawn mower, you can make informed decisions to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Remember to use regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher, avoid ethanol blends higher than 10%, and practice proper storage and maintenance techniques.
Choosing the right fuel is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to maintaining your lawn mower. Regular servicing, proper blade sharpening, and addressing any potential issues promptly will ensure your mower runs smoothly and efficiently for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why can’t I just use regular gasoline in my lawnmower?
While regular gasoline might seem like the obvious choice, it’s not always the best for your lawnmower. Regular gasoline contains ethanol, a type of alcohol that can attract moisture and lead to problems like fuel line corrosion, gum buildup in the carburetor, and engine damage. Ethanol also evaporates quickly, making it difficult to store gasoline for extended periods.
Using gasoline specifically formulated for small engines, like lawnmowers, minimizes these issues. These blends contain lower amounts of ethanol and are often stabilized to resist degradation over time, ensuring smoother operation and longer engine life.
2. What kind of gas should I use in my lawnmower?
The best type of gasoline for your lawnmower is “gasoline for small engines,” also known as “non-ethanol gas” or “gasoline with ethanol content below 10%.” This specialized fuel is designed to meet the specific needs of small engines, offering better performance and reduced maintenance compared to regular gasoline.
Look for this type of fuel at most gas stations. It may be labelled as “small engine fuel,” “non-ethanol fuel,” or “10% ethanol” or less.
3. Is it okay to use gasoline with a higher ethanol content in my lawnmower?
Using gasoline with higher ethanol content, like regular gasoline that usually contains 10% ethanol, is generally not recommended for lawnmowers. While some lawnmowers are designed to handle up to 10% ethanol, it’s best to use fuel specifically formulated for small engines to prevent potential issues.
Higher ethanol content can cause gum buildup in the carburetor, corrode fuel lines, and lead to engine problems over time. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and choose gasoline with the lowest possible ethanol content for your lawnmower.
4. Can I use fuel stabilizer in my lawnmower?
Using fuel stabilizer is a great way to protect your lawnmower’s engine, especially if you plan on storing it for extended periods. Fuel stabilizer prevents gum buildup, reduces corrosion, and ensures smooth operation when you fire up your mower after storage.
Add fuel stabilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions and run the engine for a few minutes to allow the stabilizer to circulate through the fuel system. This will help extend the life of your fuel and minimize the risk of starting issues in the future.
5. What if I accidentally used regular gasoline in my lawnmower?
If you accidentally used regular gasoline in your lawnmower, don’t panic! It’s unlikely to cause immediate damage, but it’s best to minimize its use. Run the lawnmower until the fuel tank is empty, then refill it with the recommended gasoline for small engines.
To mitigate potential damage, consider adding fuel stabilizer to the tank after using regular gasoline and run the engine for a few minutes to help distribute the stabilizer throughout the fuel system.
6. How often should I change the fuel in my lawnmower?
It’s generally recommended to change the fuel in your lawnmower every 30 days, or even more frequently if you live in a humid climate. This helps prevent fuel degradation and ensures your engine runs smoothly.
If you plan to store your lawnmower for an extended period, drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it stops to empty the fuel lines. This will help prevent gum buildup and ensure a smooth start when you bring it out of storage.
7. What are some tips for storing my lawnmower?
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining your lawnmower’s health and extending its lifespan. Here are some key tips:
- Empty the fuel tank: This prevents fuel degradation and minimizes the risk of starting issues.
- Run the engine until it stops: This helps clear the fuel lines and prevents gum buildup.
- Add fuel stabilizer: This protects the fuel system and ensures a smooth start when you bring the mower out of storage.
- Clean the mower: Remove any debris or grass clippings and ensure the air filter is clean.
- Store in a dry, cool place: This helps prevent rust and corrosion.