The first snowfall of the season is a beautiful sight, but the joy can quickly turn to frustration if your trusty snowblower refuses to roar to life. One of the most common culprits behind a stubborn engine is old, stale gasoline left over from the previous winter. Don't let a few months of inactivity sideline your snow-clearing efforts; with the right knowledge and a bit of elbow grease, you can often revive your snowblower even with aged fuel.
This article will guide you through the process of safely and effectively starting your snowblower when it's been sitting with old gas. We'll cover why old gas is problematic, the steps to prepare your machine, troubleshooting common issues, and preventative measures to ensure a smoother start next season. By understanding these key aspects, you'll be better equipped to tackle winter's challenges and keep your equipment in prime working condition.
The Problem with Old Gasoline
Gasoline is a volatile substance, and its composition changes over time, especially when exposed to air and heat. The primary issue with old gas is oxidation. As gasoline oxidizes, it breaks down, forming gummy deposits and varnish-like residues. These residues can clog fuel lines, carburetors, and fuel filters, preventing the proper flow of fuel to the engine. This blockage is the most frequent reason why a snowblower won't start after sitting for an extended period.
Furthermore, modern gasoline contains ethanol, which is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts and absorbs moisture from the air. This water contamination can lead to phase separation, where the ethanol and water separate from the gasoline, creating a corrosive mixture. This corrosive liquid can damage fuel system components and further exacerbate clogging issues. Even gas that appears visually fine can have lost its octane rating and combustion efficiency, making it difficult for the engine to ignite and run smoothly.
The longer gasoline sits, the more pronounced these degradation processes become. While a few weeks might not cause significant issues, gas left in a snowblower's tank for an entire summer or longer is almost certainly degraded. This is why it's crucial to address the fuel before attempting to start the machine, rather than just assuming it will work.
Assessing the Fuel and Preparing the Snowblower
The first step is to visually inspect the gasoline in the tank. If it appears cloudy, discolored (darker than usual), or has a distinct, acrid smell, it's a strong indicator that the fuel has degraded. You might also notice sediment at the bottom of the tank. If you're unsure about the fuel's quality, it's always best to err on the side of caution and assume it's problematic.
Once you've assessed the fuel, the next crucial step is to drain it. This is typically done by locating the fuel drain screw on the carburetor bowl. Place a suitable container, like an approved gasoline can, underneath the carburetor. Carefully loosen the drain screw with a screwdriver. Be prepared for some fuel to flow out. Allow all the old fuel to drain completely. Some snowblowers also have a fuel shut-off valve that should be turned off before draining.
After draining the old fuel, it's a good practice to inspect the fuel filter if your snowblower has one. A clogged fuel filter can also prevent fuel from reaching the engine. If it looks dirty or clogged, it should be replaced. Also, check the fuel lines for any signs of cracking or damage. If you find any issues, replace the affected parts before proceeding.
Adding Fresh Fuel and Starting Procedures
With the old fuel removed, you can now add fresh gasoline. It's highly recommended to use fresh, high-octane gasoline. For most snowblowers, a fuel stabilizer can be added to the fresh gas to prevent future degradation and protect the fuel system. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the correct fuel-to-stabilizer ratio. Fill the tank only partially at first, as you may need to repeat the draining process if issues persist.
Now it's time to attempt starting the snowblower. Ensure the choke is set to the "full choke" position. Prime the carburetor by pressing the primer bulb several times (usually 3-5 times) until you feel resistance. This helps draw fresh fuel into the carburetor. If your snowblower doesn't have a primer bulb, you might need to manually flood the carburetor slightly by turning the fuel valve on and off a few times.
Attempt to start the engine by pulling the starter cord firmly. If it sputters or tries to catch but doesn't run, let it rest for a moment and try again. You may need to adjust the choke position from full choke to half choke as the engine begins to warm up. Listen for any unusual noises and be prepared to stop the engine if it sounds unhealthy.
Troubleshooting Common Starting Issues
If the snowblower still refuses to start after adding fresh fuel and following the standard starting procedure, there are a few common culprits to investigate. The spark plug is a frequent offender. Remove the spark plug and inspect it for fouling, damage, or excessive carbon buildup. If it looks dirty or worn, clean it with a wire brush or replace it with a new one. Ensure the gap on the new spark plug is set to the manufacturer's specifications.
Another common issue is a clogged carburetor. Even after draining the old fuel, gummy deposits might remain inside the carburetor. If you're comfortable, you can remove the carburetor bowl and clean it with carburetor cleaner. For more severe clogs, the entire carburetor might need to be removed and thoroughly cleaned or even rebuilt. Always disconnect the spark plug wire before working on the carburetor to prevent accidental starting.
Finally, check the air filter. A dirty or clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine, making it difficult to start and run. Inspect the air filter and clean or replace it as needed. A clean air filter is essential for optimal engine performance and easy starting.
Preventative Maintenance for Future Starts
The best way to avoid the headache of starting a snowblower with old gas is to practice good preventative maintenance. At the end of each winter season, before storing your snowblower, it's crucial to prepare the fuel system for long-term storage. The most effective method is to run the engine dry of fuel. Start the snowblower and let it run until it completely stops due to lack of fuel. This ensures that no old gasoline remains in the carburetor or fuel lines.
Alternatively, if running the engine dry isn't feasible, you can drain the fuel tank and carburetor completely. Then, add a fuel stabilizer to the fresh gasoline before filling the tank. This stabilizer will protect the fuel system components from corrosion and prevent the fuel from degrading over the off-season. Using a fuel stabilizer is a small investment that can save you significant time and frustration.
Regularly inspecting and cleaning or replacing the spark plug, air filter, and fuel filter according to the manufacturer's recommendations will also contribute to easier starts and better overall performance. A well-maintained snowblower is a reliable snowblower.
Key Takeaways
- ✓ Old gasoline degrades, forming gummy deposits that clog fuel systems.
- ✓ Ethanol in modern gasoline attracts moisture, leading to corrosion.
- ✓ Always drain old fuel and replace it with fresh gasoline before attempting to start.
- ✓ Inspect and clean/replace spark plugs, air filters, and fuel filters for optimal performance.
- ✓ Run the engine dry or use fuel stabilizer for off-season storage to prevent fuel issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can gasoline be stored before it goes bad?
Gasoline typically starts to degrade significantly after about 30 days, especially if not stored properly in a sealed container away from heat and light. Modern gasoline with ethanol can degrade even faster, sometimes within a month. For equipment storage, it's best to use it within a month or treat it with a stabilizer.
What are the signs that my snowblower has old gas in it?
Signs include difficulty starting, engine sputtering or running rough, loss of power, and a distinct acrid or varnish-like smell from the fuel. Visually, the gas might appear cloudy or discolored.
Can I just add fresh gas to the old gas in the tank?
While this might sometimes work for very slightly aged gas, it's generally not recommended. Adding fresh gas to significantly old gas will contaminate the fresh fuel and the engine will still struggle to run. It's best to drain the old fuel completely first.
What kind of gas should I use in my snowblower?
Most snowblowers require regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87. Always check your owner's manual for the specific fuel recommendations for your model. Avoid using E85 or any fuel with a high ethanol content unless explicitly stated as compatible by the manufacturer.
How do I properly dispose of old gasoline?
Never pour old gasoline down a drain or onto the ground. Contact your local hazardous waste disposal facility or recycling center for proper disposal guidelines. Many auto parts stores also accept used motor oil and sometimes fuel for recycling.
Conclusion
Starting a snowblower with old gas can be a frustrating experience, but by understanding the nature of fuel degradation and following a systematic approach, you can often overcome this common obstacle. Draining the old fuel, cleaning or replacing components like the spark plug and air filter, and refilling with fresh, stabilized gasoline are key steps to getting your machine running again.
Don't let a little old gas keep you from clearing your driveway. By implementing the preventative maintenance tips discussed, such as running the engine dry or using a fuel stabilizer before storage, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of encountering these starting issues in the future. A well-maintained snowblower is a reliable partner against winter's snow.
