Your small gasoline engines

Winterizing is a must because gasoline left in a lawn mower or chain saw engine’s fuel tank and carburetor can degrade over time.

Gasoline can interact with air and moisture to form gums and deposits. Do not store gasoline in the engine’s fuel tank for any inactive period longer than two months.

If the owner’s manual says the gasoline can be removed and it can be done easily, the gasoline should be carefully drained from the tank (and carburetor, if possible) and collected in a clean, approved storage container. The collected gasoline can be used in your car. Any remaining gasoline in the system can be removed by operating the engine until it stops.

If the fuel cannot be drained easily add a gasoline stabilizer, following instructions on the product container.

Store your motorized equipment in a cool, dry place that is well ventilated and out of direct sunlight.

Check out Mary's recently released revised and expanded edition of The Financially Confident Woman (DPL Press, 2008).

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