Gasoline and Fuel System Problems The changes in gasoline formulation have caused a number of fuel system issues in outdoor power equipment engines. Teske's has already seen a number of cases here!

What's the problem?

Gummy deposits and varnish from gasoline can plug passages in the carburetor preventing the engine from running or causing the engine to run poorly.  You may experience surging, lack of power, stalls, etc.  Engine may not start.  Carburetor may leak fuel if the float needle does not seal properly.

What makes this happen?

Lower quality of gas and gas sitting for too long.  Purchase only the amount of fuel that will be used within 30 days.  Fuel deteriorates over time.  Deterioration begins with the most volatile compounds evaporating.  Once evaporation reaches a certain point it will be hard or impossible to start the machine.  As more compounds evaporate, the fuel will form brown gummy deposits in the system.  Over time the gummy deposits will become a hard varnish.

How do I avoid it?

1.  Add fuel stablilizer to the fuel the day you buy it.  Most fuel stabilizers form a layer over the top of the gasoline and greatly reduce the rate the fuel's volatile compounds evaporate.  They also prevent the absorption of moisture by the fuel.  If a fuel stabilizer is added to gasoline the day the gasoline is purchased, the fuel will stay fresh longer (up to 90 days).

2.  Purchase a name brand fuel.  Name brand fuel producers and their stations are more likely to follow a rigid quality control program to ensure their fuel is clean, fresh and has the correct additive package.

3.  Buy fuel at a busy station.  You are more likely to receive only the freshest fuel.

4.  Purchase Regular grade gasoline.  Unleaded regular gasoline with an octane rating of at least 87 ((R+M)/2 rating method) is the recommended fuel grade for all gasoline engines in Toro products.

What if I'm already having problems?

Talk to our staff at Moline Teske Power Equipment Department for a repair estimate. 

From Toro Service Bulletin 02/08/12.