Don't remove the spark plugs for winter

(In response to the article: "Putting your lawnmower to bed" published Oct. 4, 2007.)

I think the writer is partially right. First it is easier to run the mower dry than to try and empty it. Any time you are handling gasoline, you are dealing with a potentially dangerous situation. Always handle fuel in a ventilated area, preferably outside.

First, I suggest adding a name brand fuel stabilizer like Seafoam (from NAPA or Advance Auto Parts or check out their web site at http://www.seafoamsales.com /) or STA-BIL (Wal-Mart and many other stores or www.goldeagle.com). I prefer the Seafoam brand over other brands because it also has a carbon solvent in it. This is greatly needed for air cooled outdoor power equipment like a mower. For that reason alone, I suggest using the product year around.

Add the proper amount of fuel stabilizer to your gasoline can or in the equipment fuel tank. Run the unit until it runs out of gas. This way you have drained the fuel tank and the carburetor fuel bowl. Any minor amount of fuel left behind will have stabilizer in it and should not gum up the carburetor until you ready to mow the next season.

Note: The companies that sell the fuel stabilizer advertise their product will stabilize fuel for 1-2 years depending on the amount of stabilizer used. Be warned. The longer equipment sits without being started and ran exposes it to eventual carburetor failure at minimum. No stabilizer lasts forever.

As to removing the spark plug and leaving it out. I disagree. First, many areas of the country have high humidity. Most mowers and equipment are not stored in a climate controlled environment. That is to say warm and with low humidity. Some engine cylinders are steel and would be prone to rust. The very best engine preparation for seasonal storage would be fogging the cylinder with a product made precisely for storage. An alternate method would be to spray a rust penetrant (i.e., WD-40) or inject a teaspoon of light motor oil into the cylinder and turn the engine over with the starter rope a few spins.

I suggest reinstalling the plug after this operation. You may get a little smoke from the exhaust on your next start up but that is normal. It will clear up quickly. By leaving the spark plug out, not only is the cylinder exposed to moisture, it also gives access to bugs, spiders and maybe even a mouse. Mice are notorious for building nests under the engine cover where they cannot be detected. The mouse nest will cause overheating and damage to your engine. Mice are not cute. They are disease carrying pests and are capable of much destruction. They will gnaw the spark plug wiring and defecate on everything. This causes damage and creates quite a foul order.

Any comments can be sent to frogconcepts@aol.com

Dan Atkinson President of The Mower

Doctor

Lexington, Ky.

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