How to Drain Gas From Lawn Mower – the Ultimate Guide (2023)

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Are you having trouble with your lawn mower? Is it not starting or performing as it should be? One of the most common reasons could be the old gas in the fuel tank. Gas-powered lawn mowers need fresh gas to run efficiently, and old gas can cause damage to the mower’s engine.

In this article, we will guide you step-by-step on how to drain gas from lawn mower and keep it running smoothly.

Why Drain Gas from Lawn Mower?

Gas-powered lawn mowers use a combustible liquid that can break down over time, especially when left unused for longer periods of time. Old gas can cause gummy-like deposits that can clog the carburetor and fuel lines, leading to poor engine performance, and even breakdown of your lawn mower.

It is always a good idea to drain the remaining gas from the fuel tank before storing it for longer periods, like winter.

How Often Should You Drain Lawn Mower Gas?

It depends on how frequently you use the lawn mower. If you use it regularly, like every week or two, it is recommended to drain the gas on a monthly basis. If you use it less frequently, like once a month or less, it is better to drain the gas every time you are done using it.

Also, if you are storing your lawn mower for the winter, it’s critical to drain the gas from the tank and fuel lines before putting it away.

How to Drain Gas from Lawn Mower – Methods

There are different methods to drain gas from lawn mower, and we will discuss the most common ones in detail.

Turkey Baster Method

This is the most straightforward method and requires a turkey baster and a container to hold the gas.

1. Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting.
2. Place the lawn mower on a flat surface.
3. Remove the fuel tank cap and insert the turkey baster into the fuel tank.
4. Squeeze the bulb of the turkey baster to create suction, and let it fill with the old gas.
5. Transfer the old gas from the turkey baster to a container, making sure not to spill any on the ground.

Siphon Pump Method

This method requires a siphon pump, a clear hose, and a container to hold the gas.

1. Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting.
2. Place the lawn mower on a flat surface.
3. Remove the fuel tank cap and locate the fuel line that connects the fuel tank to the carburetor.
4. Insert one end of the clear hose into the fuel tank, and the other end into the container.
5. Insert the siphon pump into the clear hose and start pumping it to create suction.
6. The gas will start flowing through the clear hose into the container.
7. Once the fuel tank is empty, remove the hose and siphon pump.

Fuel Line Method

This method requires disconnecting the fuel line that connects the fuel tank to the carburetor.

1. Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting.
2. Place the lawn mower on a flat surface.
3. Locate the fuel line that connects the fuel tank to the carburetor.
4. Disconnect the fuel line from the carburetor.
5. Place a container under the fuel line to catch the gas.
6. Once the fuel tank is empty, reconnect the fuel line.

Internal Drain Method

This method is recommended for lawn mowers with Briggs and Stratton engines. Here are the steps:

1. Run the lawn mower until the fuel tank is empty.
2. Remove the fuel tank and turn it upside down.
3. Locate the oil reservoir, which is usually located under the fuel tank.
4. Remove the oil reservoir and let any remaining gas drain out.
5. Reinstall the oil reservoir and fuel tank.

Tips for Draining Gas from Lawn Mower

• Always wear gloves and safety goggles when handling gas.
• Make sure to drain the gas in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling harmful fumes.
• Dispose of the old gas in a mobile disposal unit or a gas station that accepts it.
• Use a fuel stabilizer to keep the gas fresh for longer periods of time.

Conclusion

Draining old gas from a lawn mower is a critical step in maintaining its good working condition. With the methods discussed above, you can easily drain the gas from your lawn mower and avoid seasonal maintenance worries.

Remember to drain the gas regularly and follow the safety tips to prevent any potential hazards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)