honda-automobiles hrc216hxa User Manual

Gasoline will oxidize and deteriorate in storage. Old gasoline will cause 
hard starting, and it leaves gum deposits that clog the fuel system. If 
the gasoline in your mower deteriorates during storage, you may need 
to have the carburetor and other fuel system components serviced or 
replaced.

The length of time that gasoline can be left in your fuel tank and 
carburetor without causing functional problems will vary with such 
factors as gasoline blend, your storage temperatures, and whether the 
fuel tank is partially or completely filled. The air in a partially filled fuel 
tank promotes fuel deterioration. Very warm storage temperatures 
accelerate fuel deterioration. Fuel deterioration problems may occur 
within a few months, or even less if the gasoline was not fresh when 
you filled the fuel tank.

The Distributor’s Limited Warranty (page 72) does not cover fuel 
system damage or engine performance problems resulting from 
neglected storage preparation.

You can extend fuel storage life by adding a gasoline stabilizer that is 
formulated for that purpose, or you can avoid fuel deterioration 
problems by draining all the fuel from the fuel tank and carburetor.

When adding a fuel stabilizer (page 74), fill the fuel tank with fresh 
gasoline. If only partially filled, air in the tank will promote fuel 
deterioration during storage. If you keep a container of gasoline for 
refueling, be sure that it contains only fresh gasoline.

1. Add fuel stabilizer following the manufacturer’s instructions.

2. After adding a fuel stabilizer, run the engine outdoors for 10 

minutes to be sure that the treated gasoline has replaced the 
untreated gasoline in the carburetor.

3. Stop the engine and turn the fuel valve to the OFF position