Many consumers discover that gas powered equipment (particularly items that sit for extended periods) develop fuel related issues due to bad gas. Unlike manufacturing defects, fuel problems are not warranty related.

Fuel used today is unlike fuel used in recent past. It is oxygenated and blended, which means it breaks down quickly and loses volatility necessary to get a small engine started. If bad fuel is left in a piece of equipment for too long, it can seriously damage engine parts. That damage can include anything from varnish build-up in carburetors causing clogged orifices and gumming and seizing of the valve training, to absorption of moisture from the atmosphere causing corrosion and bad spark plugs. The user can also see deterioration of rubber, plastic and metal components and rotting seals.

Fuel damage can be catastrophic to an engine. This type of equipment repair cannot be completed at home – a skilled technician is needed to remove and clean the fuel system or to replace any damaged parts.

What to look for

If you have questions about bad fuel that causes damage, use this advice to keep power tools and equipment running smoothly.

• 1. Keep It Clean. Dirt needs to be kept out of the fuel delivery system. Debris can get into power tools by collecting on gas cans or gas caps.
• 2. Don’t Store Fuel. Old fuel should never be reused or kept in tool sheds, basements, etc. After a unit has been repaired, the fuel should be properly disposed of to prevent repeat damage.
• 3. All Fuel Is Not the Same. Read the manufacturer’s guidelines on fuel component percentage, octane rating, unapproved fuels and use of alcohols, additives and ethers. Improper attention to any of these guidelines will invalidate the manufacturer’s warranty.
• 4. Store the Tool Correctly. If you plan to keep the equipment inactive for 60 days or more, read the owner’s manual on the best practices for preparing the unit for storage.
• 5. Keep the Fuel Fresh. Always, always use fresh fuel in your equipment. Fuel that has been in the unit for 60 days or longer must be removed and properly disposed of. Keep in mind the importance of safely disposing of old fuel.
• 6. Read the Owner’s Manual First. Read through the owner’s manual and warranty statements before starting the tool and definitely before attempting to repair the tool. These manuals clearly outline the customer’s responsibilities. Stale and bad fuels are also addressed in these documents.
• 7. Follow Manufacturer’s Recommendations. The manufacturer made the power tool and knows the best fuel to use in it. Follow their suggestions for use of fuel stabilizer when purchasing new fuel and for general use of the product.

With regards to general fuel component guidelines, 10 percent should be grain alcohol (also known as “gasohol”) and 15 percent should be made of Ethyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (ETBE). The remainder should be a mixture known as E85, which contains 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. E85 is an alternative fuel, not a gasoline. In many cases, using the wrong fuel blend will void a manufacturer’s warranty. Please check their manual and warranty for guidelines specific to each manufacturer.

Following these suggestions will keep your equipment repair costs down and ensure many needed repairs still fall under the manufacturer’s warranties.