Mowing season is here, and while yard work can be a chore, the scent of freshly cut grass is hard to beat. If you haven’t yet started your lawnmower this year, you might run into a common problem when you pull the starter cord: the engine sputters or won’t start. Before you call a mechanic, try a simple, inexpensive fix.
When a mower sits unused through fall and winter, gasoline left in the tank can degrade and become stale. Stale fuel often causes rough running, difficulty starting, or a mower that simply won’t turn over. Rather than assuming the worst or scheduling a service visit, inspect the fuel first.
To resolve the issue, safely drain and dispose of the old gasoline. Check with your city or town for guidelines on proper disposal—many communities have hazardous-waste collection sites or designated drop-off events. After the old fuel is removed, refill the tank with fresh gasoline and try starting the mower again. In most cases, replacing the stale gas will restore normal operation and save you the expense of an unnecessary repair call.
For future prevention, consider one or more of the following maintenance tips: keep the tank full or use a fuel stabilizer before storing the mower for the off-season; run the mower until the carburetor is empty; or store fuel in sealed, approved containers away from temperature extremes. Regular tune-ups and following the manufacturer’s recommendations for winterizing equipment will also reduce starting problems in spring.
How do you feel about mowing and yard work—do you enjoy it, dislike it, or feel indifferent? Share your approach to seasonal lawn care and any tips you’ve found effective when bringing equipment back into service after a long idle period.
Photo: flickr.com/photos/pleeker/123019230