The sun is shining, the grass is growing, and you’re ready to tackle your lawn. You grab your trusty lawn mower, pull the cord, and… nothing. The engine sputters and coughs but refuses to roar to life. You know you filled the tank last year, but could it be that the old gas is the culprit? This article will explore the reasons why old gas can prevent your lawn mower from starting and offer helpful tips on dealing with this common problem.
The short answer is yes, old gasoline can absolutely prevent your lawn mower from starting. Over time, gasoline breaks down and loses its potency, leading to a variety of issues that hinder engine performance. We’ll delve into the specifics of how this happens and what you can do to prevent it.
The Science Behind Stale Gas
Gasoline is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons, and when exposed to air, it undergoes a process called oxidation. This oxidation causes the gasoline to deteriorate, leading to the formation of gums, resins, and other harmful deposits that can clog fuel lines, injectors, and even the carburetor.
The Effects of Oxidation
- Decreased Volatility: Fresh gasoline evaporates easily, which is crucial for proper combustion. As gasoline ages, it loses its volatility, making it harder for the engine to vaporize the fuel.
- Gum and Resin Formation: The oxidation process produces sticky, gummy residues that can clog fuel lines and injectors. This prevents fuel from reaching the combustion chamber, making starting the engine difficult or impossible.
- Water Contamination: Even a small amount of water can mix with the gasoline, leading to corrosion and further deterioration. This can occur due to condensation in the fuel tank or leaks in the fuel lines.
How Long Does Gas Last?
The shelf life of gasoline varies depending on several factors, including the quality of the fuel, storage conditions, and the presence of stabilizers. Here’s a general guideline:
- Unstabilized Gasoline: Unstabilized gasoline should be used within 30 days for optimal performance.
- Stabilized Gasoline: Gasoline treated with stabilizers can last up to 6 months, but it’s best to use it within a year.
Troubleshooting and Solutions
If you suspect your lawn mower’s starting problems are due to old gas, here’s a step-by-step approach to troubleshoot and resolve the issue:
1. Drain the Fuel Tank
- Safety First: Before draining the fuel tank, always work in a well-ventilated area and wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves and eye protection.
- Empty the Tank: Carefully drain the old gas into a suitable container. Be sure to dispose of it properly according to local regulations.
2. Clean the Fuel System
- Carburetor Cleaning: If your lawn mower has a carburetor, it may need to be cleaned. You can remove the carburetor and clean it using carburetor cleaner, or you can use a carburetor cleaning kit.
- Fuel Lines and Filter: Inspect the fuel lines and filter for any signs of clogging or damage. If necessary, replace the filter or clean the lines.
3. Add Fresh Gas with Stabilizer
- Use Fresh Fuel: After cleaning the fuel system, refill the tank with fresh, high-octane gasoline.
- Add Stabilizer: Add a fuel stabilizer to the fresh gasoline to help prevent future oxidation and extend the life of the fuel. Follow the stabilizer manufacturer’s instructions for proper usage.
Preventative Measures
To avoid future problems with old gas, it’s essential to follow some preventative measures:
- Use Fresh Gas: Always use fresh gasoline in your lawn mower.
- Add Stabilizer: Even if you don’t plan on using your lawn mower for a long time, adding stabilizer to the gas will help to prevent deterioration.
- Store the Mower Properly: Store your lawn mower in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight.
- Empty the Tank: If you plan on storing your lawn mower for an extended period, it’s best to empty the fuel tank completely to prevent the formation of old gas.
Other Potential Causes of Starting Problems
While old gas is a common culprit, other factors can prevent your lawn mower from starting:
- Spark Plug Issues: A worn-out or fouled spark plug can prevent the engine from igniting.
- Air Filter Clogging: A clogged air filter restricts airflow, which can hinder engine performance.
- Battery Problems: A weak or dead battery can prevent the starter motor from engaging.
- Choke Issues: The choke is responsible for enriching the fuel mixture during starting. If the choke is stuck or malfunctioning, it can prevent the engine from starting.
Conclusion
Old gasoline is a common cause of lawn mower starting problems. It can cause a variety of issues, including reduced volatility, gum and resin formation, and water contamination. By draining the old gas, cleaning the fuel system, and adding fresh gas with stabilizer, you can resolve this issue. Remember to implement preventative measures to avoid future problems, and always consider other potential causes if your lawn mower still refuses to start. With a little care and maintenance, you can keep your lawn mower running smoothly for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are 7 FAQs with answers for the article “Will Old Gas Keep Your Lawn Mower From Starting?”:
1. How long does gasoline stay good for?
Gasoline begins to degrade after about 30 days, and its quality continues to decline over time. The breakdown of gasoline is caused by a chemical process called oxidation, which results in the formation of gums and varnish. These substances can clog the carburetor and fuel lines, preventing fuel from reaching the engine. In general, you should avoid using gasoline that is more than 3 months old.
However, the shelf life of gasoline can be influenced by several factors, such as storage conditions, the type of fuel stabilizer used, and the temperature. For example, gasoline stored in a cool, dry place will last longer than gasoline stored in a hot, humid environment. Using a fuel stabilizer can also extend the shelf life of gasoline by inhibiting the oxidation process.
2. What are the signs of bad gas in a lawn mower?
There are several signs that indicate your lawn mower may have bad gas. The most obvious sign is that your lawn mower won’t start. You may also notice that your lawn mower starts and runs poorly or that it stalls frequently. In addition, you might see a white, gummy residue in the carburetor or fuel lines.
If you suspect your lawn mower has bad gas, it’s best to drain the fuel tank and replace it with fresh gasoline. You should also inspect the carburetor and fuel lines for any signs of clogging.
3. Can I use old gas in my lawn mower?
Using old gas in your lawn mower is not recommended because it can damage the engine and lead to costly repairs. Old gas can cause a number of problems, including:
- Clogging the carburetor: The gums and varnish in old gas can clog the tiny passages in the carburetor, preventing fuel from flowing to the engine.
- Corroding fuel lines and tank: The chemicals in old gas can corrode the fuel lines and tank, leading to leaks and other problems.
- Hard starting: Old gas can make it difficult to start your lawn mower because it does not vaporize properly, leading to poor combustion.
4. Can I mix old gas with new gas?
It is not recommended to mix old gas with new gas. Even a small amount of old gas can contaminate a full tank of fresh gas, reducing its shelf life and potentially causing problems with your lawn mower’s engine.
It’s best to drain and discard any old gasoline and start with a fresh tank of gas.
5. How do I drain the gas tank?
Draining the gas tank is a relatively simple process. Here’s how:
- Safety first: Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from spills.
- Locate the drain valve: Most lawn mowers have a drain valve on the bottom of the fuel tank.
- Open the drain valve: This will allow the gas to flow into a container you’ve placed underneath.
- Close the drain valve: Once the tank is drained, close the valve and dispose of the old gas properly.
6. What should I do with old gasoline?
Old gasoline should not be poured down the drain or into the ground, as it can pollute the environment. The best way to dispose of old gasoline is to take it to a local hazardous waste collection facility. Many recycling centers and gas stations also accept old gasoline.
7. How do I prevent gas from going bad in my lawn mower?
To keep your lawn mower’s gas fresh and prevent it from going bad, follow these tips:
- Use a fuel stabilizer: Fuel stabilizers are designed to inhibit the oxidation process, preventing gasoline from breaking down.
- Store gasoline properly: Keep your gasoline in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
- Use fresh gas: If you know you won’t be using your lawn mower for a few months, it’s best to drain the gas tank and refill it with fresh gasoline when you’re ready to use it again.