Photo Credit: Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI)
Keeping outdoor power- and small-engine equipment running and reliable is important for park rangers and staff at national parks. Maintenance staff relies on chainsaws to clear roads and trails so campers and hikers can reach their destinations. Utility task vehicles (UTVs) are used to haul debris and supplies, and generators provide electricity for lights and other equipment when the power fails. The staff relies on trimmers and leaf blowers to help remove debris from walkways and signage. Fueling outdoor power equipment is especially important in ensuring it is reliable and lasts for a long time. Consider the following tips:
Know The Finer Points Of Fueling
Drain gasoline from the tank and replace it before starting equipment that has been sitting for a while. Untreated gasoline left in a tank for more than 30 days can destabilize and deteriorate, causing problems starting or running equipment. If this situation occurs, be sure to drain the old fuel from the tank.
Turn off the fuel valve. After using outdoor power equipment, switch the fuel valve off, and leave it that way until the equipment will be used again.