Winter is almost coming to an end, and you no longer have to use your snowblower. Usually, this is the time when people throw their machines into the shed – to be forgotten up until the coming winter. Wait, did you know that you need to learn how to drain gas from a snowblower before storing it.
You should note you can only drain the gas snowblowers that have fuel tanks because the electric versions operate on motors. Some snowblower manuals recommend that you should empty the tank, and let the machine run dry. However, while this approach uses most of the fuel, some still linger behind and can evaporate, leaving some harmful chemicals.
The only worse thing would be for one to leave stale gas in the blower. The fuel will oxidize and turn into thick gum. More so, you may also have to service the carburetor and fuel lines if you come across such an issue.
If you store the snowblower with fuel, it may be challenging to start in the oncoming winter season. In fact, you might have to perform various maintenance procedures to restore the machine. Multiple solutions, such as using fuel stabilizers, are recommended.
Well, the following is a comprehensive breakdown of how and why you need to do it. Let’s get started:
Why Do you Have to Drain the Tank?
Snowblowers can make life easy during the winter season. Once the snowy season is over, you have to perform a basic DIY maintenance process to ensure it will operate next season.
While you have never noticed it, the gas evaporates fast. However, when large amounts of gas evaporate, it’s likely to leave a residue in the tank. The residue is terrible, and is likely to compromise the functionality of the engine. Also, some fuel tends to remain in between the fuel lines, and it would be great to ensure the engine on your blower runs dry. Thus, you have to ensure that you drain the engine after every use session.
What Do You Need to Drain Gas from A Snowblower?
Some of the components you will need to drain gasoline from your machine include:
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Engine storage spray otherwise referred to as fogging oil – this helps to remove any fuel residue in the engine, and prepare the surface for use
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An engine lubricant – helps to lubricate components such as the spark plug opening and more
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Engine stabilizer – you can also add some stabilizer if you still suspect the engine of fuel lines have some fuel
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An empty container for the drained oil – you will use the container to collect any reside oil during the changing process
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Gloves and a wrench – you need gloves to protect the hands from dirt and oil, while the wrench is for opening the spark plug
NB: Draining gas is a process which requires optimal safety, and should occur outdoors away from enclosed spaces.
Steps Involved in Draining A Gas Snowblower
There are a few critical steps involved in draining your snowblower. While these are the common procedures involved, you should always check the instructional manual for specific information.
1. Run the engine dry
You will have to keep the engine running, as a measure for ensuring that it runs dry. Using this approach is highly effective because it uses up the fuel in the entire supply line of the machine. That said, only opening the fuel lines to drain the fuel would not be an effective technique for emptying the fuel. Some fuel might remain in the fuel lines, which means that you need a stabilizer product.
2. Lubricate the Piston Region Using Engine Spray or Add Stabilizer
The remaining procedures on this list are suitable to perform when you have already when you want to store the blower. Even if these steps apply to most snowblowers, ensure that it meets the specification of your brand.
You can apply on the lubricant by using some simple DIY steps. Remove the spark plug using a spanner, and apply some engine storage spray on the plug opening. Then cover the spark plug opening, and use a clean oil which will absorb any remaining oil. Then start the engine to ensure the lubricant spread throughout the components in the engine. Once you are through, remember to replace the spark plug.
3. Consider Using Treated Fuel or A Stabilizer
To protect the tank from corrosion, you can also use treated fuel. In most cases, gas begins to degrade in as little as four weeks, which can lead to clogging. Using fuel stabilizer will reduce the need to drain the fuel, and also ensures the machine starts easily in the oncoming winter season. It will also help to stop the accumulation of gum and varnish in the fuel system.
If you have a snowblower that has a fuel shutoff, ensure that you shut off the fuel supply line when you want to move the appliance. Such a safety measure ensures the carburetor won’t overflow and can stop fuel spillages.
Also, ensure that you wash the tool, and pat it dry once you are done using it. A product such as road salts can easily compromise the metal structures in the snowblower, including the auger.
Benefits of Draining Gas from a Snowblower
A snowblower is a mechanical machine that requires care if you want to achieve the best user results. Draining the fuel tank once the winter season is over has many benefits. They include:
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Stops further engine damage – most fuel types, especially those that are made using ethanol can leave bad reside in the engine and fuel supply system
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Saves money – you can use the drained fuel on various other tools such as lawnmowers, and even your car
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Safety process – leaving fuel in a snowblower, which you probably stash in a corner, is not necessarily safe. Negligent children or pests might access the supply line, which can lead to dangerous leakages.
Finally
Snowblowers can be highly convenient appliances in the home. Being able to take good care of your snowblower should be a priority – especially if you experience heavy winters. The good thing is that taking care of a snowblower is simple. You can start with this how-to drain gas from a snowblower guide because it’s a crucial skill. Products such as engine lubricants, stabilizers, and more are all beneficial for completing this process.
Any stale gas can easily compromise the functionality of your snow removal tool. Learn about these steps, and consider checking the instructional manual for specific on your blower brand. Some brand tends to have slightly varying designs and maintenance requirements.