| Engines are built to run. But many small engines are only used seasonally and sit idle for long periods. Long-term storage can aggravate overlooked problems, and other problems can develop. For example, unstabilized gas left in an engine can gum up a carburetor, unlubricated engine parts can corrode, and moisture can accumulate in the ignition system. With proper storage preparation, you can avoid most such problems. If you plan to store your engine for more than 30 days: |
Drain The
Gasoline  |
Gasoline that's allowed to stand for over a month may form a
varnish on the inside of the fuel tank, carburetor and other fuel
system components. Draining the gasoline reduces varnish problems.
Drain the carburetor float bowl (if equipped) as well. The
Environmental Protection Agency recommends adding the drained
gasoline to your car's gas tank, provided your car tank is fairly
full. Once diluted, old gasoline will not harm your car engine.
Another way to protect against the varnishing effects of old fuel is
to add a gasoline stabilizer such as fuel additives to your fuel
before storage. |
Change The Oil |
Changing the oil will prevent particles of dirt in the oil from adhering to engine parts (see "Checking & Changing Oil"). |
Seal The Fuel
Cap
 |
Your small engine emits small amounts of fuel vapor
into the air - even when it's not running. To reduce emissions
during storage, cover the vented fuel cap with aluminum foil and
secure it with an elastic band. |
Lubricate
Internal Parts
 |
Injecting oil through the spark plug hole is an easy way to
lubricate the cylinder. Pour a couple ounces of engine oil into the spark plug hole. Then, spread it throughout the cylinder by reattaching the spark plug and slowly pulling the rewind. |
Service The Air Cleaner
 |
This step can extend the life of the air cleaner and improve engine performance next season. |
Seal The
Combustion Chamber
 |
You can prevent varnish formation in the combustion chamber
during storage by placing the piston at top dead center (TDC), the
point at which both valves are closed. This keeps out stale fuel and
debris, Just pull the rewind rope slowly. When you feel increased
tension on the rope (due to the compression of air in the chamber),
the piston is at TDC. For additional information, please visit our
Compression System FAQ.
|
Remove Dirt And
Debris
 |
Debris tends to accumulate in the cylinder head fins, under the
blower housing and around the muffler. This debris can fall into the
engine. Remove it now to ensure good performance next season. Then,
cover the engine with a sheet of plastic and store in a dry place.
For additional information, please visit our Removing Debris FAQ.
|
NOTE: Please read and abide by any applicable Safety Information (PDF) before performing any engine work. This information is not meant to take the place of work performed by a Briggs & Stratton Authorized Dealer.Terms and Conditions apply to all of our information provided on this website. Always be sure to read and understand your engine Operator's Manual. | |
