Last spring, my neighbor, Bob, swore his old gas was the reason his lawnmower wouldn’t start. He’d left a can of gas outside all winter! He was convinced that old gas ruined his lawn mower. This post will explore the impact of old gasoline on your lawn mower, detailing how it can affect various components and offering advice on preventing damage. We’ll look at how long gas lasts, what happens when it goes bad, and how you can avoid this costly mistake, saving you time and money.
The Effects of Old Gas on Your Lawn Mower
This section will explore the various ways old gasoline can harm your lawn mower engine and other components. We’ll delve into the chemical changes that occur in gasoline over time, and the consequences for your equipment.
Fuel System Damage
- Clogged Carburetor: Old gas leaves behind gummy residues that clog the tiny jets and passages within your carburetor. This prevents the proper mixture of fuel and air, leading to poor engine performance or complete failure. A clogged carburetor requires professional cleaning or replacement, a costly repair.
- Fuel Line Blockages: Similar to the carburetor, fuel lines can become clogged with varnish and debris left behind by degraded gasoline. This restricts fuel flow to the engine, inhibiting its ability to run properly. Regularly inspecting your fuel lines is crucial.
- Fuel Pump Problems: The fuel pump works to deliver gasoline from the tank to the carburetor. Old gas can damage the pump’s internal components, leading to inconsistent fuel delivery or complete pump failure. Replacing a fuel pump is an expensive repair.
Engine Damage
This section focuses on the direct impact old gas has on the internal components of your lawn mower engine.
Internal Corrosion
- Rust and Degradation: The ethanol in modern gasoline absorbs moisture from the air, accelerating corrosion within the fuel system and engine. Old gas, containing high levels of water and ethanol byproducts, promotes rust and degradation of metal parts.
- Pre-ignition and Knocking: The presence of gum and varnish in old gas can lead to pre-ignition and knocking in the combustion chamber, causing significant damage to pistons, rings, and cylinder walls.
Starting Difficulties
This section will detail how old gas directly affects your lawnmower’s ability to start.
Difficult Starting or No Start
- Weak Spark: The presence of contaminants in old gas can impede the generation of a strong spark from the spark plug, making starting difficult or impossible. This is often one of the first noticeable signs that your gas is bad.
How Long Does Gasoline Last?
This section tackles the question of gasoline shelf life, examining factors that affect how long gasoline remains usable.
Factors Affecting Gasoline Shelf Life
- Storage Conditions: Storing gasoline in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area significantly extends its shelf life. Exposure to sunlight and heat accelerates deterioration. A sealed container is essential.
- Fuel Stabilizer: Adding a fuel stabilizer to your gasoline can significantly extend its usable life. These additives prevent the formation of gums and varnishes, maintaining fuel quality for longer periods.
- Ethanol Content: Gasoline with a higher ethanol content tends to degrade more quickly than gasoline with lower ethanol levels. This is due to ethanol’s affinity for absorbing moisture.
| Gasoline Type | Shelf Life (Months) |
|---|---|
| Gasoline with Stabilizer | 12-18 |
| Regular Gasoline | 3-6 |
Insert a comparison chart here showing the degradation of gasoline over time under different storage conditions.
Preventing Damage from Old Gas: Best Practices
This section provides actionable steps for preventing the problems associated with old gasoline in your lawn mower.
Proper Gasoline Storage
- Use Approved Containers: Store gasoline only in containers designed for fuel storage; these are typically made of metal or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and are labeled appropriately.
- Keep it Cool and Dry: Store gasoline in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated location, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Seal Tightly: Ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent evaporation and the entry of moisture.
Using Fuel Stabilizers
- Follow Instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the amount of fuel stabilizer to add. Overuse can also be detrimental.
- Regular Use is Key: If you plan to store your lawnmower for extended periods, use a fuel stabilizer to preserve the quality of the gasoline. Using stabilized gas consistently throughout the season is even better.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is critical in preventing problems associated with old gasoline. This includes checking fuel lines and the carburetor regularly. A service manual for your mower is a valuable resource.
Debunking Myths About Old Gas and Lawn Mowers
Myth 1: Old gas only affects the carburetor.
While a clogged carburetor is a common problem, old gas can also damage fuel lines, the fuel pump, and even cause internal engine corrosion.
Myth 2: A little bit of old gas won’t hurt.
Even small amounts of degraded gasoline can contribute to the buildup of varnish and gums, potentially causing problems down the road.
Myth 3: You can fix the issue by just adding fresh gas.
While adding fresh gas can sometimes help if only a small amount of old gas remains, extensive damage might require more extensive repairs. This can range from a simple carburetor cleaning to a full engine overhaul. A professional opinion is crucial to assess the extent of the damage.
FAQ
Can I use old gas in my weed wacker?
Yes, but use caution. The smaller engine in a weed wacker is more susceptible to damage from old gas. Consider using a fuel stabilizer or draining and replacing old fuel before each use.
What are the signs of bad gas in a lawn mower?
Difficult starting, sputtering, lack of power, or a complete failure to start are common indicators that your gas might be bad. Black smoke from the exhaust is another symptom.
How can I tell if my gas is bad?
Visually inspect the gas. If it’s cloudy, discolored (darker than normal), or has a noticeably different smell, it’s probably bad. If it’s been sitting for months without stabilizer, replace it.
What happens if I run my lawn mower with old gas?
Running your lawn mower with old gas can lead to various issues, including engine damage, carburetor clogging, and costly repairs. Avoid this by using fresh gas or a fuel stabilizer.
Should I drain old gas from my lawn mower?
Yes, it’s recommended to drain old gas completely from your lawnmower before storing it for an extended period or if you suspect it’s gone bad. Proper disposal of old fuel is also important – check your local regulations.
How much does it cost to repair a lawnmower damaged by old gas?
Repair costs can vary depending on the extent of the damage. Minor issues like a carburetor cleaning might cost a few hundred dollars; major engine repairs could cost significantly more. Prevention is far cheaper!
Final Thoughts
Remembering that old gas can ruin a lawn mower is crucial for maintaining your outdoor equipment. By following proper storage practices, utilizing fuel stabilizers, and performing regular maintenance, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your lawn mower and avoid costly repairs. Don’t let bad gas side-line your lawn care – take proactive steps today to protect your investment.
