Did you know that the shelf life of fuel is about 3 months? Even fuel stored for more than 30 days can become stale and cause acid and gum build up in your fuel system. There are additives available for around $5.00 that can keep your fuel fresh for up to 24 months.
Ethanol content, found in most fuel these days, can also cause problems in your small engine. Some machines come with a warning sticker, or have a warranty disclaimer in the owner’s manual not to use gas with a high ethanol rating. Many people don’t realize this as we don’t read all the stickers at the gas pumps. There is an additive to combat the damage that can be done by this fuel, but it is pricey. I recommend that you use fuel with as little ethanol added as possible.
It is getting to be well in to the lawn care season. Some ideas for a better running machine are to be sure it breathes well, check and change your air filter, especially on two stroke machines. A clogged air filter can cause carbon build up on the spark arrester screen in the muffler, and cause it to start and stall, or not run at all. I don’t recommend removing foam style air filters on trimmers, or blowers, as they will suck in small particles of dust or grass etc. and may cause internal engine damage.
Check your oil frequently on 4 stroke engines, make sure it is topped up and fairly clean. One of the properties of engine oil is to help clean the engine. I recommend an oil change before every season rather than after, as oil also has a 4 – 6 month period of effectiveness (less in a car).
Just a couple of tips to help you have a trouble free summer season.
Rolly