Learning how to drain gasoline from a lawn mower is a simple but vital skill for any homeowner. Draining old gasoline from your lawn mower’s tank is a critical step before winter storage to prevent fuel system issues. This guide will walk you through the safest and most effective methods.
Leaving fuel in the tank over the off-season can lead to gum and varnish deposits. These deposits clog the carburetor and fuel lines, causing starting problems and expensive repairs. By draining the gas, you ensure your mower starts easily when spring arrives.
How To Drain Gasoline From A Lawn Mower
There are several reliable ways to remove fuel from your mower. The best method for you depends on your mower’s design and your available tools. We will cover the three primary techniques: using a siphon pump, draining via the fuel line, and manually tilting the mower.
Essential Safety Precautions Before You Start
Safety must be your top priority when handling gasoline. Always work in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors. Keep any source of heat, sparks, or flame far away from your workspace.
Gather these supplies before beginning:
- A pair of safety glasses
- Chemical-resistant gloves
- A approved gasoline container
- Rags or paper towels
- A funnel
- A basic set of wrenches or pliers
- A siphon pump (for one method)
- A shallow pan or bowl
Method 1: Using A Handheld Siphon Pump
This is often the cleanest and easiest method for most riders and push mowers. A simple hand pump allows you to transfer gas without tilting the machine.
Step-By-Step Siphon Process
- Place your empty gas can on the ground, lower than the mower’s fuel tank.
- Insert the siphon pump’s longer tube into the mower’s fuel tank.
- Place the shorter tube into the opening of your gas container.
- Pump the bulb or mechanism according to the pump’s instructions until fuel begins to flow steadily into the can.
- Once the tank is empty, remove the tubes and securely close both the tank and the gas can.
Method 2: Draining Via The Fuel Line
This method is very effective and involves disconnecting the fuel line at the carburetor. It’s a good option if your mower has an accessible fuel line clamp.
Steps For Fuel Line Drainage
- Locate the fuel line running from the gas tank to the carburetor. It’s usually a small rubber hose.
- Place your shallow pan directly beneath the carburetor end of the fuel line.
- Using pliers, loosen the clamp securing the hose to the carburetor. Slide the clamp back.
- Carefully pull the fuel line off the carburetor nipple. Fuel will begin to drain into your pan.
- Once draining stops, use your funnel to pour the gas from the pan into your storage container. Reconnect the fuel line and tighten the clamp.
Method 3: Manual Tilting And Pouring
For mowers without a siphon and where the fuel line is hard to reach, carefully tilting the mower to pour the gas out is an option. This method requires caution to avoid spilling gas on the engine or air filter.
Safe Tilting Procedure
- Ensure the mower is on a flat, level surface. Remove the spark plug wire to prevent any accidental starting.
- Place your gas can and funnel next to the mower. Have rags ready.
- Slowly tilt the mower so the gas cap side is angled downward over your container. Do not turn the mower completely upside down.
- Loosen the gas cap and allow the fuel to pour out into the funnel. You may need to rock the mower gently to get all the fuel.
- Once empty, return the mower to its upright position and securely fasten the gas cap.
What To Do With The Drained Gasoline
Do not simply pour old gasoline on the ground or down a drain. This is illegal and harmful to the environment. If the gasoline is fresh and uncontaminated, you can reuse it in your car’s gas tank, as long as it is less than a month old.
For old or stale gas, you must dispose of it properly. Contact your local waste management authority or a nearby automotive repair shop. Many communities have hazardous waste collection days where you can drop off old fuel safely.
After Draining: Preparing For Storage
Draining the tank is only part of the storage process. For optimal protection, you should also run the engine to clear the carburetor of any remaining fuel. After draining, you can add a fuel stabilizer to a small amount of fresh gas, run the mower for a few minutes, then drain that stabilized fuel as well for complete protection.
Other key storage steps include:
- Cleaning the mower deck of grass clippings and debris.
- Changing the engine oil before storage.
- Removing and sharpening the mower blade.
- Storing the mower in a clean, dry place.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When learning how to drain gasoline from a lawn mower, people often make a few simple errors. Avoiding these will save you time and trouble.
- Forgetting to disconnect the spark plug. Always do this first for safety.
- Using an unapproved container. Only use containers designed for gasoline storage.
- Storing the mower with a completely empty tank. This can promote rust. A dry tank or a tank with stabilized fuel are both acceptable methods.
- Ignoring local fuel disposal laws. Always follow your community’s guidelines.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Can Gas Sit In A Lawn Mower Before It Goes Bad?
Standard gasoline begins to degrade and oxidize in as little as 30 days. This process leads to the gum and varnish that clogs small engines. For this reason, it’s best not to let gas sit in your mower for more than a month during the active season.
Can I Use Old Gas From My Lawn Mower In My Car?
It is not recommended. While a small amount of fresh, uncontaminated gas might be okay, old mower gas is often contaminated with moisture and debris from the mower’s tank. It’s safer to dispose of it properly rather than risk damaging your car’s more sensitive fuel system.
Is It Better To Drain The Gas Or Use A Stabilizer?
For long-term storage (like over winter), draining the fuel tank and the carburetor is the most thorough method. Using a fuel stabilizer is an excellent alternative for shorter periods or if you choose not to drain. However, stabilizers work best when added to fresh gas, not old gas that has already begun to break down.
What If My Lawn Mower Has A Fuel Shutoff Valve?
If your mower has a fuel shutoff valve on the fuel line, you can use it to your advantage. Simply turn the valve to the “off” position, disconnect the fuel line at the carburetor, place it in your container, and turn the valve back to “on” to drain. This is one of the easiest methods if your mower is equipped with one.
Why Won’t My Lawn Mower Start After Draining And Refueling?
If you’ve drained old gas and put in fresh fuel but the mower still won’t start, the old fuel may have already left deposits in the carburetor jet or fuel line. The carburetor might need to be cleaned. Also, double-check that you reconnected the spark plug wire and that the fuel valve, if present, is in the “on” position.
Mastering how to drain gasoline from a lawn mower is a key part of responsible equipment maintenance. By following these steps, you protect your investment and ensure your mower provides reliable service for many seasons. Taking this time in the fall saves you from frustration and repair bills when the grass starts growing again.