Has winter gone by, only for you to discover that you forgot to drain the gas from your lawn mower? No need to worry; you’re not alone. Leaving gas in your lawn mower over the winter can lead to problems when you try to start it up for the first time in spring. However, there are steps you can take to rectify the situation and ensure your lawn mower is in top working condition.
In this article, we will explore the potential issues that can arise from leaving gas in your lawn mower over the winter and provide you with actionable solutions to address them. By following our guidance, you can save time and money, as well as ensure that your lawn mower is ready to tackle the upcoming mowing season.
Assessing The Damage
When you realize you’ve left gas in your lawn mower over the winter, the first step is to assess the potential damage. Old gas left in the mower can lead to a variety of issues including clogging of the fuel system, build-up of gummy residue, and corrosion. The first thing to check is whether the gas has become stale and degraded, which can happen when it sits for an extended period.
Next, examine the fuel lines, carburetor, and fuel filter for any signs of blockage or damage. Stale gas can leave behind deposits that clog these essential components, leading to starting problems and performance issues. If there are visible signs of corrosion or build-up, it may be necessary to clean or replace these parts to ensure proper functioning. It’s also important to inspect the spark plug for any fouling or deposits that may have occurred due to the old gas.
By thoroughly assessing the potential damage caused by leaving gas in your lawn mower over the winter, you can determine the extent of the necessary repairs and maintenance to get your mower running smoothly again.
Draining The Old Gas
If you forgot to empty the gas from your lawnmower before winter, don’t worry—draining the old gas is the first step to getting your mower running smoothly again. Start by locating the fuel line, and carefully disconnect it from the tank to prevent spillage. Next, place a container underneath the fuel tank and remove the gas cap to allow the old fuel to flow out. If the tank has a drain plug, use it to empty the remaining gas.
After draining the old gas, remove the spark plug and pull the starter cord a few times to expel any remaining fuel from the engine. This will help prevent fuel build-up and potential issues when you refill with fresh gas. Once the old gas has been drained, it’s important to properly dispose of it according to local regulations. With the old gas removed, you can proceed to the next steps to ensure your lawnmower is ready for the upcoming mowing season.
Cleaning The Fuel System
When it comes to cleaning the fuel system of your lawn mower after leaving gas in it over the winter, there are a few key steps to follow. Firstly, start by removing any old fuel from the tank. Use a hand pump or siphon to empty the tank completely. Next, you will need to access the carburetor. This involves removing the air filter cover and the air filter itself to gain access to the carburetor.
Once the carburetor is accessible, carefully disassemble it and clean all the components thoroughly. You can use a carburetor cleaner to remove any gunk or varnish that may have built up over time. It’s important to pay attention to small passages and ports to ensure they are completely clear. Additionally, you should also replace the fuel filter and inspect the fuel lines for any signs of damage or blockages. By thoroughly cleaning the fuel system, you can ensure that your lawn mower runs smoothly and efficiently when you start using it again.
Replacing The Spark Plug
When dealing with a lawn mower that has had gas left in it over the winter, it’s important to consider replacing the spark plug. Over time, spark plugs can become fouled or corroded, making it difficult to start the mower. A simple way to test if the spark plug is the issue is to remove it from the mower and inspect the electrode at the end of the plug. If it appears dirty, worn, or damaged, it’s time for a replacement.
To replace the spark plug, start by finding the correct replacement plug for your specific lawn mower model. Once you have the new spark plug, use a spark plug socket and ratchet to remove the old plug from the mower. Before installing the new plug, ensure that the gap between the electrode and the metal arm is set according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Carefully thread the new spark plug into the mower by hand to avoid cross-threading, and then tighten it with the socket and ratchet. Replacing the spark plug can often help restore proper engine performance and improve starting reliability for your lawn mower after a long period of inactivity.
Checking The Air Filter
When checking the air filter of your lawn mower after leaving gas in it over the winter, ensure that it is not clogged with debris or dirt. A clogged air filter can restrict the flow of air to the engine, affecting its performance. Remove the air filter cover and inspect the filter for any signs of dirt or damage. If the filter appears dirty, it’s important to clean or replace it to ensure optimal airflow to the engine.
Cleaning the air filter involves gently tapping it to remove loose debris or using compressed air to blow out any trapped dirt. If the filter is heavily soiled or damaged, it’s best to replace it with a new one to maintain the efficiency of the engine. A clean air filter will help the engine to run smoothly and improve fuel efficiency, ensuring your lawn mower is ready for the upcoming mowing season. Regularly checking and maintaining the air filter will prolong the life of your lawn mower’s engine and keep it running in top condition.
Refilling With Fresh Gas
When refilling your lawn mower with fresh gas after leaving it stagnant over the winter, it’s crucial to use clean, unleaded fuel with the appropriate octane rating recommended by the manufacturer. Start by checking the fuel level and draining out any old gas remaining in the tank. Dispose of the old gas properly, as it can become contaminated with moisture and debris over time.
After emptying the tank, refill it with the right amount of fresh, high-quality gasoline. To ensure that the engine runs smoothly, consider adding a fuel stabilizer to the new gas, especially if you anticipate leaving the mower unused for an extended period again. Finally, securely tighten the gas cap and start the mower to allow the fresh gas to circulate through the fuel system. By refilling your lawn mower with clean, high-quality gas, you can help ensure optimal performance and longevity for your equipment.
Testing And Running The Mower
After following the steps to clean the carburetor and change the oil, it’s time to test and run the mower. Start by ensuring that the oil level is correct and that the air filter is clean. Next, add fresh gasoline and start the mower. Allow it to run for a few minutes, ensuring that it starts smoothly and runs without any hiccups.
Listen for any unusual sounds and check for any signs of leakage. If the mower runs smoothly without any issues, you’re all set. However, if you encounter any problems such as rough idling or difficulty starting, it may be necessary to revisit the previous steps to ensure everything is properly cleaned and adjusted.
Once you have verified that the mower is running smoothly, you can proceed to use it for your lawn care needs. Regular maintenance, including proper storage and care of the fuel system, can help prevent similar issues in the future, ensuring that your lawn mower is ready to go whenever you need it.
Preventing Future Issues
To prevent similar issues in the future, it’s essential to properly prepare your lawn mower for winter storage. Before storing the mower, ensure that the gas tank is empty or add a fuel stabilizer to the gas. Running the engine until the tank is completely dry is the best option to prevent fuel-related problems during the dormant season.
Additionally, consider conducting regular maintenance on the mower throughout the year, such as changing the oil and replacing the air filter. Keeping the mower clean and free from debris or grass clippings after each use can also prevent clogs and potential fuel system issues. Lastly, following manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance and storage can help prolong the life of your lawn mower and reduce the chances of encountering problems in the future. By implementing these preventative measures, you can minimize the risk of dealing with gas-related issues when using your lawn mower after the winter season.
The Bottom Line
In times of forgetfulness or neglect, it’s easy to leave gas in your lawn mower over the winter. However, the steps to rectify this mistake are straightforward and manageable. By following the recommended procedures to drain and, if necessary, replace the fuel, you can safeguard your lawn mower from potential damage and ensure smooth operation during the upcoming mowing season.
Taking care of your lawn mower’s fuel system is an essential aspect of proper maintenance, and addressing the issue of stale gas is just one part of the overall upkeep. By staying proactive and diligent in maintaining your equipment, you can prolong its lifespan and optimize its performance. Remember, a little extra effort now can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.