Should You Drain Gas From Your Snow Blower in Missouri?
Every spring, small engine owners debate whether to drain all fuel or leave stabilized gas in the tank. In Missouri's humid climate, there is a specific method that outperforms both extremes.
The Problem with Draining 100% Bone-Dry
If you drain every drop of fuel from the tank, air fills the empty void. During humid Missouri summers (where dew points exceed 70°F), temperature swings cause moisture to condense on the inside walls of bare steel fuel tanks, causing interior rust flakes that clog fuel lines the following winter. Furthermore, tiny rubber needle valve seals and bowl O-rings can dry out and crack without fuel contact.
The Problem with Leaving Untreated Pump Gas
Leaving standard 10% ethanol pump gasoline in the machine without stabilizer is a death sentence. By August, the volatile light ends evaporate, leaving acidic green varnish that glues the carburetor float needle shut.
1. Add ethanol-free fuel + fuel stabilizer to the gas tank (fill it 95% full to minimize air space).
2. Run the engine for 5 minutes.
3. Turn the fuel petcock shutoff valve to OFF.
4. Let the engine run until it sputters and stalls.
Result: Full tank with zero air condensation, but bone-dry carburetor jets that can never gum up!
Frequently Asked Questions
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