As winter's icy grip loosens and the snowplows are finally put away, a common question arises for homeowners: what should you do with the leftover gasoline in your snowblower? The temptation to simply leave it in the tank for the following year is strong, promising a quicker start when the first flakes begin to fall. However, this seemingly convenient approach can lead to a host of mechanical headaches and costly repairs down the line.
Understanding the implications of storing gasoline in your snowblower is crucial for maintaining its longevity and ensuring reliable performance when you need it most. This article will delve into the science behind fuel degradation, explore the potential problems associated with leaving gas in your machine, and provide clear, actionable steps to properly prepare your snowblower for its summer slumber. By the end, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of how to protect your investment and avoid the frustration of a snowblower that won't start when winter returns.
The Science of Fuel Degradation: Why Old Gas is Bad News
Gasoline is a complex mixture of volatile organic compounds designed to combust efficiently. However, over time, these compounds are susceptible to a process called oxidation. When exposed to air, heat, and moisture, gasoline begins to break down, forming gummy residues, varnish, and acids. This degradation is not a rapid event, but it is a continuous one, and its effects are amplified when the fuel is left sitting in a fuel tank.
Several factors accelerate this degradation. Ethanol, a common additive in modern gasoline (often found in E10 blends), is particularly problematic. Ethanol is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts and absorbs water from the atmosphere. This water can then separate from the gasoline, leading to phase separation, where the ethanol and water settle at the bottom of the tank. This corrosive mixture can wreak havoc on metal fuel system components, and the remaining gasoline becomes less potent and harder to ignite.
The consequences of using degraded gasoline can range from minor performance issues to severe engine damage. Gum and varnish deposits can clog fuel lines, carburetors, and fuel injectors, restricting fuel flow and causing the engine to run rough, stall, or refuse to start altogether. The acidic byproducts of oxidation can corrode metal parts, leading to leaks and premature wear. In essence, leaving old gas in your snowblower is akin to feeding it a slow-acting poison.
Common Problems Arising from Stored Gasoline
The most immediate and frustrating problem encountered when using old gasoline is difficulty starting the snowblower. The engine may crank but not fire, or it might sputter and die shortly after starting. This is often due to the fuel system being partially or completely blocked by the gummy deposits formed from degraded fuel. The spark plug may also become fouled with these residues, further hindering ignition.
Beyond starting issues, you might notice a significant drop in engine performance. The snowblower could lack power, run erratically, or overheat. These symptoms are indicative of an inconsistent fuel supply or an engine struggling to combust the weakened fuel mixture. In more severe cases, the corrosive nature of degraded fuel, especially ethanol-water mixtures, can lead to rust forming inside the fuel tank and damage to seals and gaskets within the carburetor.
Long-term storage of gasoline in a snowblower can lead to more permanent and expensive damage. Carburetor rebuilds or replacements are common, as are issues with fuel pumps and lines. In extreme scenarios, the internal components of the engine itself could be affected by prolonged exposure to corrosive fuel byproducts, leading to costly repairs or even the need to replace the entire unit.
The Recommended Practice: Draining and Stabilizing Fuel
The universally recommended practice for preparing a snowblower for off-season storage is to either drain the fuel tank completely or run the engine until it consumes all the remaining fuel. This eliminates the risk of fuel degradation and the associated problems. Draining the tank is a straightforward process that involves siphoning the gasoline into an approved container.
Alternatively, you can run the engine until it sputters and dies from lack of fuel. This method ensures that the fuel lines and carburetor are also emptied of gasoline. Once the engine has stopped, it's a good idea to restart it a couple of times to ensure all residual fuel is burned off. This is a crucial step to prevent any lingering fuel from causing issues.
For those who prefer to leave a small amount of fuel in the tank, using a fuel stabilizer is a viable option. A fuel stabilizer is an additive that prevents oxidation and gum formation in gasoline, extending its shelf life significantly. When added to fresh gasoline, it can keep the fuel viable for up to 12 months or even longer, depending on the product. However, it's still best practice to run the engine for a few minutes after adding the stabilizer to ensure it circulates through the entire fuel system.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fuel Preparation for Storage
Begin by gathering your supplies: an approved gasoline container, a siphon pump (if draining), a funnel, and a clean rag. Ensure you are working in a well-ventilated area, away from any open flames or sparks. If you choose to drain the tank, place the approved container below the fuel tank and use the siphon pump to transfer the gasoline. Be careful not to overfill the container.
If you opt to run the engine dry, locate your snowblower and ensure it's on a level surface. Start the engine and let it run at a moderate throttle setting. Continue to run it until it begins to sputter and eventually stops due to lack of fuel. Once the engine has stopped, attempt to restart it a couple more times to ensure all fuel has been consumed from the carburetor and fuel lines.
After draining or running the tank dry, it's a good practice to add a small amount of fresh fuel mixed with a fuel stabilizer to the tank. This helps to prevent rust and corrosion inside the tank during the off-season. If you choose to drain completely, you can simply leave the tank empty. However, adding a small amount of stabilized fuel is often recommended to protect the tank's interior.
Beyond Fuel: Other Essential Snowblower Maintenance for Storage
Proper fuel management is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to preparing your snowblower for storage. Neglecting other maintenance tasks can lead to issues that are just as problematic as stale gasoline. For instance, cleaning the snowblower thoroughly after its last use is essential. Remove any caked-on snow, ice, mud, and debris from the auger, housing, and discharge chute. This prevents rust and corrosion.
Next, consider the engine oil. It's a good idea to change the engine oil before storing the snowblower. Old oil can contain contaminants and acids that can damage the engine over time. Fresh oil will provide better lubrication and protection during the dormant months. Also, inspect the spark plug. If it appears fouled or worn, replace it. A new spark plug will ensure easier starting come winter.
Finally, check the drive belts and shear pins. Inspect the belts for any signs of cracking or wear and replace them if necessary. Shear pins are designed to break under stress to protect the auger and transmission; ensure you have spares on hand. Lubricating moving parts, such as pivot points and linkages, will also help prevent seizing and ensure smooth operation when the snowblower is next put to use.
Key Takeaways
- ✓ Gasoline degrades over time, forming gummy residues that can clog fuel systems.
- ✓ Ethanol in gasoline attracts water, leading to phase separation and corrosion.
- ✓ Leaving gas in your snowblower can cause starting problems, poor performance, and costly repairs.
- ✓ The best practice is to drain the fuel tank or run the engine dry before storage.
- ✓ Using a fuel stabilizer can extend the life of gasoline if you choose not to drain it completely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just add a fuel stabilizer to the old gas in my snowblower?
While adding a fuel stabilizer to old gas can help slow down further degradation, it cannot reverse the damage that has already occurred. The gummy residues and varnish will still be present. It's always best to drain the old gas and then add fresh fuel with a stabilizer, or run the engine dry and then add a small amount of stabilized fuel.
How long can I safely leave gas in my snowblower if I use a stabilizer?
With a quality fuel stabilizer, fresh gasoline can remain viable for up to 12 months, and sometimes longer, depending on the specific product and storage conditions. However, it's still a good idea to check the fuel's condition before starting the snowblower after a long period of inactivity.
What happens if I don't prepare my snowblower for storage and the gas goes bad?
If you don't prepare your snowblower, you'll likely face issues like difficulty starting, rough engine running, loss of power, and potential damage to the carburetor, fuel lines, and even the engine itself due to gum formation and corrosion. This can lead to expensive repairs.
Is it safe to store gasoline in plastic containers?
For short-term storage, approved plastic gasoline containers are generally safe. However, for long-term storage, especially during the off-season, it's recommended to use metal containers designed specifically for gasoline. Plastic can become brittle over time and may not offer the same level of protection against vapor release. Always ensure containers are properly sealed and stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from ignition sources.
What are the signs that the gas in my snowblower has gone bad?
Signs of bad gas include a stale or varnish-like odor, a cloudy or separated appearance, and difficulty starting or running the engine. If the engine sputters, stalls, or lacks power, it's a strong indicator that the fuel may have degraded.
Conclusion
Preparing your snowblower for the off-season is a critical step in ensuring its longevity and reliable performance. While the temptation to leave gasoline in the tank for convenience is understandable, the risks associated with fuel degradation—clogged fuel systems, corrosion, and costly repairs—far outweigh any perceived benefits. By understanding how gasoline breaks down and the specific problems it can cause, you can make informed decisions about its storage.
The most effective approach involves either draining the fuel tank completely or running the engine until it's dry, thereby eliminating the fuel as a potential issue. For those who prefer to use a fuel stabilizer, remember that it's best applied to fresh fuel and used in conjunction with running the engine to circulate the stabilized fuel throughout the system. Coupled with other essential maintenance tasks like cleaning, oil changes, and component checks, proper fuel management will ensure your snowblower is ready to tackle the next winter storm with confidence.
Don't wait until the first snowfall to discover that your snowblower is out of commission due to preventable issues. Take the time now to properly prepare your machine for storage. By following these guidelines, you'll not only protect your investment but also ensure peace of mind when winter inevitably returns. Your future self, facing a snow-covered driveway, will thank you for it.
