How to Drain the Gas from Your Generator Gas Tank and Carburetor

Draining the Gas from Your Generator Gas Tank and Carburetor

Draining gas from your generator gas tank and carburetor is an important part of keeping your generator running smoothly. Safety precautions should be taken and the generator should be turned off prior to attempting this task.

Steps

1. Turn off the generator. Unplug the spark plug wire for extra precaution.
2. If you are draining the gas tank, locate the drain valve. It is usually located at the bottom of the tank or on a side. Use an adjustable wrench or a pair of pliers to loosen the valve.
3. If you are draining the carburetor, remove the bowl from the carburetor. You can find the bowl underneath the carburetor, and it is usually secured in place with several screws. Remove the screws and carefully remove the bowl.
4. Position a container beneath the valve or bowl to catch the draining gas. Start to turn the valve or bowl counter-clockwise to allow the gas to slowly drain out.
5. Once the gas stops flowing, securely replace the valve or bowl onto the carburetor or gas tank. Follow the removal steps in reverse to replace the parts.
6. Clean up any spilled gas and properly dispose of it.

Draining Your Generator Gas Tank and Carburetor

To maximize your generator’s performance and efficiency, it’s important to regularly drain and replace the gasoline in your generator’s tank and carburetor. Doing so can help your generator run more reliably and safely - and it’s an easy and straightforward process.

Instructions

1. Turn off the generator and disconnect it from the power supply.

2. Remove the carburetor bowl. To do this, you’ll need to locate the screws around the perimeter of your carburetor bowl. Unscrew them until the bowl is detached.

3. Allow the gasoline in the bowl to drain into an appropriate container. Place the container on a flat surface away from any open flames or sparks.

4. Clean the carburetor bowl with warm water, dishwashing liquid, and a soft cloth. Pay particular attention to the spark plug area.

5. Replace your carburetor bowl. Use new screws if necessary to secure the bowl back in place.

6. Open the gas cap and drain the tank thoroughly. Place the drainer container on a flat surface away from any open flames or sparks.

7. Use a soft cloth and warm water to clean the inside of your generator's gas tank. Be sure to thoroughly dry the tank when you’re done.

8. Refresh your generator's gasoline supply. Make sure you’re only using fresh gasoline.

9. Reattach the gas cap to the tank and reconnect your generator to the power source.

Tips

• Be sure to take the appropriate safety precautions when handling gasoline. Avoid contact with your skin and be sure to work in a well-ventilated area.

• Always consult your owner's manual for more specific instructions or diagrams.

Draining the Gasoline From Your Generator Gas Tank and Carburetor

Gasoline is highly flammable and can cause serious damage if not handled properly. To ensure safety when draining the gasoline from your generator's tank and carburetor, use the following steps.

1. Shut off the generator and let it cool down completely before beginning.
2. Place a large bucket underneath the generator and find where the gas tank and carburetor are. Generally, the gas tank and carburetor are located near the back of the motor.
3. Look for the fuel line connector, which connects the fuel tank to the carburetor. Place a large bolt over the fuel line connector and gently unscrew it. Gasoline should begin flowing out of the carburetor.
4. Turn the fuel tank so that the gas can completely drain and pour into the bucket. Once the gasoline stops flowing from the fuel line, the tank is empty.
5. Go to the carburetor and unscrew the most accessible side of its housing. This should allow any remaining gas to flow out of the carburetor.
6. Once all the gas is drained, reattach the fuel line connector and the housing cover.
7. Tighten the connections with a wrench and use a shop rag to remove any remaining gasoline.
8. Clean the outside of the generator with a shop rag and discard the old gasoline safely.