If you want your Toro lawn mower to perform at its best, choosing the right gas is crucial. Using unleaded gas with an octane rating of 87 or higher is recommended for optimal performance.
However, it’s not just about the octane rating — it’s also important to consider the amount of ethanol in the gas.
Too much ethanol can harm your mower, so it’s best to stick to gasoline with no more than a 10% ethanol content.
Freshness is another critical factor when selecting gas for your Toro mower. It’s best to purchase gasoline from a busy station that distributes it before the 30-day period when gasoline starts breaking down.
Let’s go over the essential factors to minimize fuel system issues with your Toro mower.
Which Gas to Choose
When it comes to choosing the right gas for your Toro lawn mower, it’s essential to select unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Ethanol-based fuels should be avoided, as they can cause damage to the engine and can lead to overheating.
Fresh gasoline should be purchased from a reliable source with a high turnover rate. It will ensure the fuel is not degraded or contaminated. If you have any leftover gas at the end of the mowing season, it’s best to discard it.
Effects of Ethanol
Ethanol can have a damaging effect on smaller engines. It can attract moisture and cause overheating.
Gasoline with too much ethanol can corrode the engine, leading to damage. The moisture present in ethanol-based fuel can cause separation issues in the fuel system, which can cause difficulty starting the engine or poor performance.
On top of that, ethanol has a lower energy content than regular gasoline, leading to increased heat buildup. It can put a strain on the engine, potentially resulting in malfunctions or complete failure.
Minimizing the risks associated with ethanol is easy. Use gasoline with low or no ethanol content for your Toro mower. Pay attention to decals on the pump indicating the amount of ethanol present.
Proper Gasoline Storage
Exposure to air and moisture can cause gasoline to deteriorate over time, so following proper storage practices is the key to keeping your fuel fresh.
The first step is to use a plastic container that is specifically designed for unleaded fuel. These containers are resistant to corrosion and are best suited for long-term storage. Avoid using containers made of metal or glass, as they can react with gasoline and compromise its quality.
It’s also essential to store gasoline in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or any sources of heat. High temperatures can accelerate the breakdown process of gas, reducing its effectiveness as a fuel.
If possible, store the container in a well-ventilated area to minimize risks even further.
Here’s a quick summary of the key do’s and don’ts of proper gasoline storage:
| DO | DON’T |
| Use a plastic container designed for unleaded gas | Store gasoline in metal or glass containers |
| Keep the container tightly sealed when not in use | Leave the container open or loosely sealed |
| Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight | Expose it to high temperatures or heat sources |
| Use fresh gasoline whenever possible | Mix old and new gas together |
Handling Unused Gasoline
When handling unused gasoline, take a few steps to ensure optimal performance and prevent damage to your Toro mower.
First, make sure to empty any remaining fuel before adding fresh gas. This way, you can avoid potential issues such as clogging the carburetor or damaging the engine. To do this, you can either run the engine until it runs out of gas or use a siphon pump to remove the fuel.
It’s also important to note that gasoline begins to break down after about 30 days, so be sure to purchase gasoline from a busy gas station that distributes their stock within this timeframe.
Alternatively, you can use a fuel additive designed explicitly for stabilizing and extending the freshness of gasoline for longer periods.
Finally, proper disposal of unused gasoline is essential for safety and environmental reasons.
Instead of storing it indefinitely or pouring it down drains or on the ground, consider adding any remaining gasoline into your car’s tank the next time you fill it up. This way, you can get rid of the excess fuel while using it effectively and minimizing waste.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to choosing the right gas for your Toro lawn mower, remember to opt for unleaded gas with an octane rating of 87 or higher.
At the same time, avoid gasoline with more than 10% ethanol content, as it can be harmful to your mower’s engine.
It’s best to purchase fresh gasoline from a busy gas station and store it in a plastic container designed for unleaded gas. Properly handle and dispose of any unused gasoline at the end of the mowing season.
By considering these factors, you can ensure the efficiency of your mower while also being mindful of the environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use premium gasoline with a higher octane rating in my Toro lawn mower?
Yes, you can. Still, it’s worth noting that unleaded gas with an octane rating of 87 or higher is recommended for optimal performance.
Is it safe to mix different brands of gasoline in my Toro mower?
You can mix different brands of gasoline in your Toro mower as long as they meet the recommended guidelines of an octane rating of 87 or higher and contain no more than 10% ethanol.
Can I use gasoline that has been sitting in my garage for over a year in my Toro mower?
No, you should not use gasoline that has been sitting in your garage for over a year. Gasoline begins to break down after 30 days and can cause damage to your mower’s engine. It is best to use fresh gasoline for optimal performance.
What should I do if I accidentally put too much ethanol in the gasoline for my Toro mower?
If you accidentally put too much ethanol in the gasoline for your Toro mower, drain the fuel tank and refill it with fresh gasoline that meets the recommended guidelines. Using excessive ethanol can damage your mower’s engine.
Are there any specific safety precautions I should take when handling and storing gasoline for my Toro mower?
Remember to use a suitable container designed for unleaded gas, purchase fresh and high-quality fuel, and discard unused gasoline at the end of the mowing season.
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Enamored with the world of golf Jack pursued a degree in Golf Course Management at THE Ohio State University. This career path allowed him to work on some of the highest profile golf courses in the country! Due to the pandemic, Jack began Inside The Yard as a side hustle that quickly became his main hustle. Since starting the company, Jack has relocated to a homestead in Central Arkansas where he and his wife raise cattle and two little girls.
