Gasoline, the lifeblood of your lawn mower, can degrade over time, leading to frustrating engine problems and hindering your lawn care efforts. Understanding how to identify bad gas, safely remove it, and prevent future issues is crucial for maintaining a healthy and reliable mower. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring your lawn mower runs smoothly for years to come.
Identifying Bad Gas: Recognizing the Warning Signs
The first step in addressing bad gas is knowing how to identify it. Unlike fresh gasoline, which has a distinct smell and a clear appearance, bad gas exhibits several telltale signs that signal its degradation. Learning to recognize these signs can save you time, money, and potential damage to your lawn mower engine.
The Smell Test: Trust Your Nose
One of the easiest ways to detect bad gas is by its smell. Fresh gasoline has a sharp, pungent odor. Bad gas, on the other hand, often smells sour, stale, or varnished. This altered odor is a result of the gasoline breaking down and oxidizing over time. If your gas smells significantly different from what you’re used to, it’s a strong indicator that it has gone bad.
The Visual Inspection: Looking for Changes
A visual inspection can also reveal the quality of your gasoline. Fresh gasoline is typically clear and has a slight tint, depending on the octane level. Bad gas, however, may appear darker, cloudier, or have visible sediment at the bottom of the gas can or fuel tank. These visual changes are signs of contamination or degradation.
Performance Issues: How Your Mower Behaves
The most obvious sign of bad gas is how your lawn mower performs. If your mower is hard to start, runs rough, sputters, stalls frequently, or lacks power, it’s highly likely that bad gas is the culprit. These symptoms indicate that the engine isn’t receiving the proper fuel mixture for efficient combustion.
Safely Removing Bad Gas: A Step-by-Step Guide
Once you’ve identified bad gas in your lawn mower, it’s essential to remove it safely and properly. Gasoline is a flammable and potentially hazardous substance, so taking precautions is paramount. This section outlines a step-by-step guide to removing bad gas from your lawn mower safely and responsibly.
Gathering Your Supplies: Preparation is Key
Before you begin, gather the necessary supplies. You’ll need:
- A siphon pump or turkey baster (dedicated for fuel use only)
- An approved gasoline container (clearly labeled)
- Funnel
- Rags or absorbent pads
- Gloves
- Safety glasses
Draining the Fuel Tank: The Core Process
The primary goal is to remove the contaminated gasoline from the fuel tank.
- Ensure the engine is cool: Never work on a hot engine. Let it cool down completely before starting.
- Work in a well-ventilated area: Gasoline fumes can be harmful, so work outdoors or in a garage with open doors and windows.
- Protect yourself: Wear gloves and safety glasses to prevent skin contact and eye irritation.
- Siphon the gas: Insert the siphon pump hose into the fuel tank and the other end into the approved gasoline container. Use the pump to extract the gasoline. If using a turkey baster, carefully scoop out the gasoline and transfer it to the container.
- Drain Completely: Try to remove as much gasoline as possible from the tank. Tilt the mower slightly to help collect any remaining fuel.
Disposing of Bad Gas Properly: Environmental Responsibility
Once you’ve removed the bad gas, disposing of it responsibly is crucial. Never pour gasoline down drains, into the ground, or into waterways.
- Check Local Regulations: Contact your local waste management authority or environmental agency for specific regulations regarding gasoline disposal.
- Hazardous Waste Collection: Most communities have hazardous waste collection programs where you can safely dispose of gasoline and other hazardous materials.
- Recycling Options: Some automotive repair shops or recycling centers may accept used gasoline for recycling.
Cleaning the Fuel System: Preventing Future Problems
Removing the bad gas from the tank is only part of the solution. It’s also essential to clean the fuel system to prevent any remaining residue from causing future problems.
Cleaning the Fuel Lines
Fuel lines can become clogged with residue from bad gas. Disconnect the fuel lines and use compressed air to blow out any debris. You can also use a fuel line cleaner to further dissolve any buildup. Ensure the fuel lines are reconnected securely.
Cleaning the Carburetor
The carburetor is a critical component of the fuel system, and it’s particularly susceptible to problems caused by bad gas. Consider using a carburetor cleaner to remove any varnish or deposits. In severe cases, you may need to disassemble the carburetor for a thorough cleaning or even replace it entirely.
Replacing the Fuel Filter
The fuel filter prevents debris from entering the carburetor. Replacing the fuel filter is a simple and inexpensive way to ensure that clean fuel reaches the engine. Refer to your lawn mower’s owner’s manual for the location and replacement procedure for the fuel filter.
Preventing Bad Gas: Maintaining Fuel Quality
Prevention is always better than cure. Taking proactive steps to prevent gasoline from going bad in the first place can save you time, money, and frustration. This section outlines several strategies for maintaining fuel quality and extending the life of your gasoline.
Using Fuel Stabilizer: Preserving Gasoline Integrity
Fuel stabilizer is a chemical additive that helps prevent gasoline from degrading over time. Adding fuel stabilizer to your gasoline can significantly extend its shelf life, especially during periods of storage. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct dosage.
Storing Gasoline Properly: Minimizing Degradation
How you store your gasoline can significantly impact its quality.
- Use an approved gasoline container: Store gasoline in a container specifically designed for fuel storage.
- Keep it airtight: Ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent evaporation and contamination.
- Store in a cool, dry place: Avoid storing gasoline in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, as this can accelerate degradation.
- Limit storage time: Even with fuel stabilizer, gasoline has a limited shelf life. Try to use gasoline within six months for optimal performance.
Buying the Right Amount: Avoiding Excess Storage
Only purchase the amount of gasoline you anticipate using within a reasonable timeframe. Buying too much gasoline and storing it for extended periods increases the likelihood of it going bad. Plan your purchases based on your lawn care needs.
Emptying the Fuel Tank: Preparing for Long-Term Storage
If you’re storing your lawn mower for an extended period, such as over the winter, emptying the fuel tank is a good practice.
- Run the engine until it stalls: This will remove most of the gasoline from the carburetor and fuel lines.
- Add fuel stabilizer: Before running the engine, add fuel stabilizer to the gasoline in the tank to protect the remaining fuel system components.
- Drain the carburetor: Locate the drain screw on the carburetor and open it to drain any remaining fuel.
- Store the mower properly: Store the lawn mower in a dry, protected location.
Dealing With Ethanol: Understanding its Impact
Ethanol, an alcohol-based additive often blended with gasoline, can cause problems in small engines like those found in lawn mowers. Understanding the effects of ethanol and taking steps to mitigate its risks is essential for maintaining your mower’s performance.
The Problems with Ethanol: Corrosion and Water Absorption
Ethanol can corrode rubber and plastic components in the fuel system, leading to leaks and clogs. It also attracts water, which can separate from the gasoline and cause starting problems and engine damage.
Using Ethanol-Free Gasoline: The Best Option
If possible, use ethanol-free gasoline in your lawn mower. Ethanol-free gasoline eliminates the risks associated with ethanol and provides better performance. Check with local gas stations to see if they offer ethanol-free options.
Treating Ethanol-Blended Gasoline: Mitigating the Risks
If ethanol-free gasoline is not available, use a fuel treatment specifically designed to counteract the effects of ethanol. These treatments help stabilize the gasoline, prevent corrosion, and minimize water absorption.
Troubleshooting Common Issues: Beyond Bad Gas
While bad gas is a common cause of lawn mower problems, other issues can also contribute to poor performance. Ruling out these other possibilities can help you accurately diagnose the problem and take appropriate corrective action.
Spark Plug Problems: Checking the Ignition System
A faulty spark plug can prevent the engine from starting or cause it to run poorly. Inspect the spark plug for damage, fouling, or wear. Clean or replace the spark plug as needed.
Air Filter Issues: Ensuring Proper Airflow
A dirty air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, leading to performance problems. Check the air filter regularly and clean or replace it as needed.
Blade Problems: Affecting Cutting Performance
Dull or damaged blades can make it difficult to cut grass effectively. Sharpen or replace the blades as needed to ensure a clean and efficient cut.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively deal with bad gas in your lawn mower, prevent future problems, and ensure your mower runs smoothly for years to come. Regular maintenance and proper fuel management are key to keeping your lawn looking its best.
What are the common signs of bad gas in a lawn mower?
Several telltale signs indicate that your lawn mower’s fuel has gone bad. Difficulty starting is a primary indicator; the engine might crank but fail to ignite or start only after repeated attempts. You may also notice that the engine runs rough, sputters, or lacks power, especially when attempting to cut through thick grass. These symptoms suggest that the fuel’s octane rating has degraded, or the fuel has absorbed moisture, preventing proper combustion.
Other signs include visible rust or sediment in the fuel tank or carburetor, a sour or stale odor emanating from the fuel, and potential engine stalling shortly after starting. If you observe any of these issues, it’s highly likely that the gasoline in your lawn mower has deteriorated and needs to be addressed before it causes further damage to the engine.
How long does gasoline typically last in a lawn mower?
Unstabilized gasoline typically has a relatively short shelf life, especially when exposed to air and varying temperatures. In most cases, gasoline can start to degrade in as little as 30 days, and its octane rating can drop significantly after just a few months. This degradation is accelerated by exposure to oxygen and moisture, which are common in outdoor environments where lawn mowers are stored.
For optimal performance and to prevent engine problems, it is recommended to use fresh gasoline or add a fuel stabilizer if the gasoline will be stored for more than 30 days. Fuel stabilizers help prevent the formation of gum and varnish, which can clog fuel lines and carburetor jets, leading to poor engine performance. Properly stabilized fuel can often last for up to a year or more.
What happens if I run my lawn mower with bad gas?
Running your lawn mower with bad gas can lead to a variety of performance issues and potential engine damage. The degraded fuel may not combust properly, resulting in reduced power, rough idling, and frequent stalling. The engine might struggle to start or operate smoothly, making lawn mowing a frustrating and time-consuming task. In addition, unburnt fuel can build up in the engine, causing further problems.
More seriously, bad gas can lead to the formation of gum and varnish deposits within the fuel system, including the fuel lines, carburetor, and even the engine’s internal components. These deposits can clog fuel passages, restrict fuel flow, and ultimately damage the engine. Over time, using bad gas can necessitate costly repairs or even engine replacement, making it crucial to address the issue promptly.
Can I just add fuel stabilizer to old gas instead of draining it?
Adding fuel stabilizer to old gas can be a temporary solution if the gasoline is only slightly degraded and has not been stored for an extended period. Fuel stabilizers help prevent further degradation by inhibiting oxidation and absorbing moisture. If the gas is relatively fresh but you anticipate a period of inactivity, adding a stabilizer can help preserve its quality.
However, if the gasoline has been sitting for several months, shows signs of significant degradation like discoloration or foul odor, or contains visible sediment, simply adding stabilizer is unlikely to fully restore its quality. In such cases, the existing gum and varnish deposits will remain, and the fuel may still cause engine problems. Draining the tank and carburetor and refilling with fresh, stabilized fuel is the preferred approach for heavily degraded gasoline.
How do I properly drain the bad gas from my lawn mower?
Draining bad gas from your lawn mower involves several steps to ensure a safe and effective process. First, ensure the engine is cool and locate the fuel drain valve, typically found at the bottom of the carburetor. Place a suitable container beneath the drain valve to catch the gasoline. Then, carefully open the valve to allow the fuel to flow out, ensuring proper ventilation to avoid inhaling fumes.
Once the fuel tank and carburetor are drained, it’s beneficial to inspect the tank for any remaining sediment or debris. You can gently flush the tank with a small amount of fresh gasoline to dislodge any particles. Dispose of the old gasoline properly according to local regulations, and ensure the drain valve is securely closed before refilling the tank with fresh, stabilized fuel.
What type of gasoline should I use in my lawn mower?
Generally, lawn mowers are designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87. Using a higher octane fuel will not typically improve performance and may not be necessary unless specifically recommended by the manufacturer in the owner’s manual. It’s crucial to avoid using gasoline containing more than 10% ethanol (E10), as higher ethanol blends can damage the engine components, particularly in older models.
For optimal performance and longevity, consider using ethanol-free gasoline, especially if the lawn mower is not used frequently or is stored for extended periods. Ethanol attracts moisture, which can lead to corrosion and fuel system problems. If ethanol-free gasoline is unavailable, consistently using a fuel stabilizer is highly recommended to mitigate the negative effects of ethanol.
How can I prevent gas from going bad in my lawn mower?
Preventing gasoline from going bad in your lawn mower involves proactive measures to minimize exposure to air and moisture. The most effective strategy is to use fuel stabilizer, especially when storing the lawn mower for more than a few weeks. Add the appropriate amount of stabilizer to the gasoline according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring it’s thoroughly mixed.
Another effective approach is to drain the fuel tank and carburetor completely before storing the lawn mower for the off-season. This prevents the formation of gum and varnish deposits in the fuel system. Alternatively, you can fill the fuel tank completely to minimize the amount of air inside, reducing the potential for oxidation. Storing the lawn mower in a cool, dry place can also help prolong the fuel’s lifespan.