Don’t reach for that gas can in the garage too quickly! Here are some important tips for keeping your equipment running in top shape.
When fueling up, we recommend that you use a national name brand to ensure you’re beginning with good quality fuel. Use fuel with the highest octane rating available, noting premium fuel is not mixed with ethanol. One of the potential problems with ethanol-blended gasoline is its very short shelf life. Ethanol reacts with moisture, which causes it to separate from the gas. This may cause severe damage to carburetors and fuel systems after even short storage periods.
Only purchase fuel you expect to use within 30 days. Alternatively, add stabilizer to new fuel to lengthen its shelf life. Stabilizer, which is available at our shop, has to be added the day the fuel is purchased, otherwise it will not work. It will not make old fuel fresh again.
Today’s fuel does not have the same chemical makeup as years ago. Fuel becomes stale over time and stale gas can leave harmful deposits in your engine’s fuel system. Testing has shown that significant deterioration can begin in as little as 30 days. Fresh fuel ignites more easily; the first sign of stale fuel is the engine becomes more difficult to start. This is because the most volatile components of the fuel, which help the engine start easily, are the first to deteriorate.
Before you fuel up for the first time this season, a tune up is also a great idea. If you have any questions about getting your equipment ready for the warmer weather ahead, or if you are in the market for an upgrade, please call or email us anytime. Better yet, stop by the shop for a quick visit. We’d love to see you!
Josh Kinsie
Owner, Cambridge Small Motors
519-220-1700
josh@cambridgesmallmotors.com
3-25 Milling Road, Cambridge