Is your Briggs & Stratton snowblower sitting idle, waiting for the next winter storm? Before you tuck it away for the season or prepare it for long-term storage, ensuring the fuel system is properly managed is crucial for its longevity and reliable performance. Draining the gasoline from your snowblower's tank might seem like a straightforward task, but doing it correctly prevents a host of potential problems, from gummed-up carburetors to fuel degradation.
This guide will walk you through the essential steps of safely and effectively draining the gas from your Briggs & Stratton snowblower. We'll cover why this maintenance is important, the tools you'll need, and the step-by-step process, ensuring you can confidently prepare your snowblower for storage or any other situation requiring fuel removal. By the end of this article, you'll have a clear understanding of how to protect your investment and ensure your snowblower is ready to tackle snow with power when you need it most.
Why Draining Your Snowblower's Gas Tank is Essential
Gasoline, especially when left sitting in a fuel tank for extended periods, is prone to degradation. Over time, its volatile components evaporate, leaving behind a thicker, varnish-like residue. This residue can clog fuel lines, carburetor jets, and filters, leading to starting problems, rough idling, and overall poor engine performance when you next attempt to use your snowblower. This is particularly true for modern fuels that contain ethanol, which can attract moisture and accelerate the degradation process.
Properly draining the fuel tank also prevents potential safety hazards. Stale gasoline can become more flammable and can also lead to the formation of harmful fumes. Furthermore, if your snowblower is stored in an area where temperature fluctuations are significant, condensation can form inside the fuel tank. This water can then mix with the gasoline, leading to corrosion within the fuel system and potentially damaging engine components.
For optimal snowblower health, draining the gas is a proactive maintenance step that saves you time, money, and frustration down the line. It's a simple procedure that significantly contributes to the overall reliability and lifespan of your Briggs & Stratton engine, ensuring it starts and runs smoothly for years to come.
Gathering Your Tools and Preparing Your Workspace
Before you begin, ensure you have the necessary tools readily available. You will need a clean, approved gasoline container to collect the drained fuel – typically a 5-gallon or smaller container designed for fuel storage. A funnel with a wide mouth will be invaluable for safely transferring the gasoline from the snowblower's tank into the container. You might also need a clean rag or shop towels to wipe up any spills, and potentially a pair of gloves to protect your hands from gasoline.
It's crucial to prepare a safe and well-ventilated workspace. Never drain fuel indoors or in an enclosed space where fumes can accumulate. Choose an outdoor location, away from any open flames, sparks, or heat sources, including pilot lights on water heaters or furnaces. A level surface is also important to prevent the snowblower from tipping over and to ensure the fuel drains completely.
Consider the environmental impact as well. Gasoline is a hazardous material, and it's important to dispose of it responsibly. Most local waste disposal centers or auto parts stores have designated collection points for used gasoline. Never pour old gasoline down a drain, into the soil, or into regular trash.
Step-by-Step Guide to Draining the Fuel Tank
Begin by locating the fuel tank on your Briggs & Stratton snowblower. It's typically a plastic or metal tank situated near the engine. Ensure the engine is cool to the touch; never attempt to drain fuel from a hot engine, as this increases the risk of fire. Position your approved gasoline container directly beneath the fuel shut-off valve or the lowest point of the fuel tank.
Next, locate the fuel shut-off valve. On most Briggs & Stratton engines, this valve is a small lever located on the fuel line between the tank and the carburetor. Turn this valve to the "OFF" position. If your snowblower doesn't have a visible shut-off valve, you may need to disconnect the fuel line from the carburetor. To do this, carefully use pliers to loosen the clamp securing the fuel line to the carburetor inlet and gently pull the line off. Be prepared for fuel to start flowing immediately.
Once the valve is off or the fuel line is disconnected, position the funnel into your gasoline container. If you disconnected the fuel line, carefully guide it into the funnel. If you have a drain plug at the bottom of the fuel tank, you would typically remove that plug to allow the fuel to drain. However, many snowblowers do not have a drain plug, making fuel line disconnection or siphoning the primary methods. Allow all the fuel to drain out completely.
Alternative Methods for Fuel Removal
If disconnecting the fuel line seems daunting or if your snowblower lacks an easily accessible shut-off valve, siphoning is a viable alternative. You'll need a length of flexible tubing that fits snugly into the fuel tank opening and a siphon pump designed for gasoline. Insert one end of the tubing into the fuel tank, ensuring it reaches the bottom. Place the other end of the tubing into your approved gasoline container, which should be positioned lower than the fuel tank.
Using the siphon pump, begin drawing the fuel. This usually involves squeezing a bulb or pumping a handle until fuel starts flowing through the tube. Once the siphon is established, gravity will do the work, and fuel will flow from the tank to the container. Continue siphoning until the tank is as empty as possible. Be vigilant and remove the tubing before the container overflows.
Another method, particularly for very small amounts of fuel or when dealing with a stubborn tank, involves using a hand-crank fuel pump or a dedicated fuel transfer pump. These devices can be inserted into the tank and used to actively pump the fuel out. Always ensure any pump used is rated for gasoline and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Post-Draining Procedures and Storage Preparation
After successfully draining the fuel, it's good practice to run the engine for a few minutes. With the fuel tank empty, start the snowblower and let it run until it sputters and dies. This process will help clear any residual fuel from the carburetor and fuel lines, preventing the formation of gum and varnish within these critical components. Ensure you do this in a well-ventilated area, as the engine will run rough and produce exhaust fumes.
Once the engine has run dry, turn the ignition off. If you disconnected the fuel line, reattach it securely to the carburetor and tighten the clamp. Ensure the fuel shut-off valve (if present) is in the "OFF" position. Now is also an excellent time to perform other general maintenance tasks, such as cleaning the snowblower's exterior, checking tire pressure, and inspecting the auger and impeller for any damage.
Finally, store your snowblower in a clean, dry, and protected location. A shed, garage, or covered patio is ideal. Covering the snowblower with a breathable tarp can offer an extra layer of protection against dust and debris. By following these steps, you ensure your Briggs & Stratton snowblower is properly prepared for storage and will be ready to perform when the snow flies again.
Key Takeaways
- ✓ Draining fuel prevents gumming and clogging of the carburetor and fuel lines.
- ✓ Ethanol in modern fuels accelerates fuel degradation and moisture absorption.
- ✓ Always drain fuel in a well-ventilated outdoor area away from ignition sources.
- ✓ Use approved containers and dispose of old gasoline responsibly.
- ✓ Running the engine dry after draining helps clear residual fuel from the carburetor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I drain the gas from my snowblower?
It's highly recommended to drain the gas from your snowblower at the end of each operating season, before storing it for the summer. If you anticipate storing it for more than a month or two, draining is a good preventative measure.
What happens if I don't drain the gas and store my snowblower?
If you don't drain the gas, the fuel can degrade over time, leading to a gummy residue that can clog the carburetor and fuel system. This often results in difficult starting or the engine not starting at all when you need it next.
Can I just leave a full tank of gas in my snowblower for storage?
While some manufacturers suggest using a fuel stabilizer and leaving a full tank to prevent condensation, draining the fuel entirely is often the safest bet, especially for longer storage periods or if you're unsure about fuel stabilizer effectiveness. If you choose to leave fuel, always use a high-quality fuel stabilizer.
What is the best way to dispose of old gasoline?
Never pour old gasoline down drains or into the environment. The best practice is to take it to a hazardous waste collection facility, a local recycling center that accepts hazardous materials, or some auto parts stores that offer fuel recycling services.
My snowblower is difficult to start after storage. Could this be due to old gas?
Yes, old or degraded gasoline is a very common cause of starting problems after storage. The varnish and gum deposits can block fuel flow to the engine. Draining the tank and cleaning the carburetor are often necessary steps to resolve this issue.
Conclusion
Properly draining the gasoline from your Briggs & Stratton snowblower is a critical maintenance task that ensures its reliable operation and extends its lifespan. By understanding the reasons behind this procedure, gathering the right tools, and following the step-by-step instructions, you can confidently prepare your snowblower for storage. This proactive approach prevents common issues like fuel system clogs and engine performance problems, saving you from potential headaches and costly repairs.
Don't let stale fuel compromise your snowblower's readiness. Take the time to drain the gas tank, run the engine dry, and store your equipment correctly. This simple yet effective maintenance routine will ensure your Briggs & Stratton snowblower is ready to power through the snow whenever the winter weather demands it. Make it a habit at the end of each season, and enjoy peace of mind knowing your equipment is well-cared for.
