Lawn mower fuel cap. Briggs and Stratton Gas Cap Problems: 5 Things to Fix
Briggs and Stratton Gas Cap Problems: 5 Things to Fix
Briggs and Stratton is a well-known manufacturer of small engines and outdoor power equipment. Unfortunately, some of their products have been known to experience problems with the gas cap.
Over time, gas caps can become damaged or corroded, causing the cap to not seal properly and allowing fuel to evaporate or emit fumes. In addition, dirt and debris can enter the cap and interfere with the seal.
This article will describe the reasons for a faulty Briggs and Stratton gas cap, as well as how to repair it, along with other relevant information.
Do Briggs and Stratton have Gas Cap Problems?
Yes, Briggs and Stratton gas cap problems can occur. Common problems include improper installation of the cap (causing it to leak), a damaged or worn-out cap, or a damaged or clogged vent tube.
If the gas cap is not properly sealed, the engine will not be able to generate enough vacuum to start and could eventually cause fuel system damage.
Reasons Behind Briggs and Stratton Gas Cap Problems (Solutions Added)
There are a few potential causes for Briggs and Stratton gas cap problems. These include:
Damaged Gas Cap
Many customers have reported that the gas cap has become damaged or broken over time. In some cases, the cap has been found to be cracked or the seal has been weakened and is no longer able to keep a tight seal on the fuel tank. This can lead to fuel leakage and can cause an engine to run hot or fail to start.
The Fix
Briggs and Stratton offers a range of replacement gas caps for their engines. You can find them online or at your local Briggs and Stratton dealer. It is important to ensure that you purchase the correct replacement cap for your engine model.
Improper Fitment of the Gas Cap
Briggs and Stratton gas caps have fitting problems. The main issue is that the gas cap does not fit tightly on the gasoline tank, causing fuel loss. Some consumers say the cap gets stuck and hard to remove.
The Fix
For a snug fit, Briggs Stratton recommends a gasoline tank gasket. This gasket fits snugly between the gas cap and gasoline tank. WD-40 can also dislodge a stuck gas cap.
Briggs and Stratton advises testing gas cap and fuel tank gasket tightness regularly. To avoid fuel loss, replace a loose cap promptly. Check the gasoline tank gasket for wear and damage. Replace cracked or worn gaskets quickly.
Corrosion of the Gas Cap
Briggs and Stratton engines are known to suffer from corrosion of the gas cap. This is due to the fact that the gas cap is made of plastic and is exposed to the elements. Over time, the plastic can become weak and brittle, leading to cracks and leaks.
The Fix
To prevent this, Briggs and Stratton recommends regularly cleaning the gas cap and replacing it every year or two.
Additionally, Briggs and Stratton suggests using a fuel stabilizer additive to help protect the fuel system.
Damaged or Worn O-ring
Briggs and Stratton has had some reports of gas cap problems due to a damaged or worn O-ring. If the O-ring is worn or damaged, then fuel vapors can escape, resulting in a fuel smell in the air and possible fuel leaks. This ring, is responsible for providing a seal between the gas cap and fuel tank.
The Fix
The O-ring must be replaced with an original one. They can be purchased at most hardware stores or online. Once the O-ring is replaced, the gas cap should be tested to ensure a proper seal and that fuel vapors are not leaking.
Clogged Vent Hole
The Briggs and Stratton gas cap can become clogged with dirt or debris, which can cause problems with the operation of the engine. If the gas cap vent hole is clogged, it can cause the engine to run rough or stall.
The Fix
To clean the vent hole, you should use a can of compressed air to blow out any debris that may be blocking the hole. If the clog is more severe, you may need to replace the gas cap to ensure that the vent hole is clear and functioning properly.
What Size Gas Cap Do I Need for My Briggs Stratton Engine?
The size of the gas cap you need for your Briggs Stratton engine depends on the model of the engine. Generally, Briggs Stratton engines are designed with either a standard 0.75-inch or a large 1.25-inch gas cap opening.
To determine the exact size of the gas cap you need for the engine, you will need to refer to the engine’s user manual or the Briggs Stratton website. Once you know the model of the engine, you can find the proper size of the gas cap in the user manual.
If you cannot find the size in the manual, you can contact the Briggs Stratton customer service department for assistance. Additionally, you can use the website to locate parts for your engine, including the size of the gas cap. If you have the part number of the cap, you can enter it into the website’s search engine to get the exact size.
How Do I Know If My Briggs Stratton Gas Cap Is Vented?
To determine if your Briggs Stratton gas cap is vented, look for a small hole or slots on the underside of the cap. These small openings are designed to release fuel vapor and allow air to enter the tank, which helps prevent fuel from boiling and overflowing. If the gas cap has no openings, it is not vented and should be replaced with a vented cap.
Additionally, you can look for “Vented” stamped on the underside of the cap. If the cap does not have this stamp, it is likely not vented. It is important to use a vented cap with your Briggs Stratton engine, as a non-vented cap can cause fuel to boil and evaporate, leading to starting issues and poor engine performance.
How Do I Install A Briggs Stratton Gas Cap?
The installation of a Briggs Stratton gas cap is fairly straightforward. Look at the following steps:
- Begin by unscrewing the old gas cap and discarding it.
- Next, locate the gas cap filler tube on the fuel tank and make sure it is clean and free of debris.
- Place the new gas cap over the filler tube and push down firmly until it is in place.
- Make sure the cap is secured tightly and not loose or wobbly. Turn the cap clockwise until it will not turn any further. This ensures the cap is properly sealed.
- Finally, check that the cap is not leaking fuel. If it is, then tighten the cap further until the leak stops.
Briggs And Stratton Gas Cap Problems: How Often Should I Replace My Briggs Stratton Gas Cap?
Briggs Stratton recommends replacing the gas cap on your engine every two years or after about 200 hours of use, whichever comes first.
A worn or damaged gas cap can cause air to enter the tank and fuel to leak out, resulting in poor engine performance.
It’s also important to make sure the gas cap seals properly and is in good condition, as this will help improve engine power and fuel efficiency.
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Lawnmower Spits Gas Out of Fuel Cap: Reasons and Fixes
You’re mowing your lawn, and gas starts spitting out of your fuel cap. What causes fuel to sputter from a lawnmower’s gas cap, and can the issue be fixed?
One of the most common reasons gas spews from a lawnmower’s cap is overfilling the fuel tank. Other reasons fuel can eject from the gas cap include problems with the cap itself and more serious internal engine problems.
Read on to find out if your specific fuel issue can be fixed quickly and cheaply or if it’s a sign of more serious hidden damage.
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Fuel Cap Leaks Caused by Overfilling the Tank
Every lawnmower comes with a manual that tells you how much gas you can put into your tank. Pay close attention to what your user manual says, as well as any raised or printed indicators on or in the fuel tank if you don’t; you can run into more problems.
Like any gas-powered tool, Lawnmowers have extra space in their fuel tanks because fuel expands when heated (source). If you overfill your tank, the gas will expand, causing immense pressure that becomes so great that it pushes gasoline out of the fuel cap’s vent.
If you check your fuel level and it’s above the fill line, and you have fuel escaping from the cap, your problem is most likely due to an overfill.
To fix your problem, you will have to:
- Turn your mower off
- Let the fuel in the tank cool down
- Place a bucket or gas can under the fuel line
- Unhook the fuel line from the gas tank
- Drain the excess gas from the tank until levels fall under the fill line
- Reattach the fuel line
- Move the excess gas to a safe place
- Start the mower up again
This YouTube video gives a great demonstration of how to check the fuel tank for proper venting:
Fuel Cap Leaks Caused by a Broken Cap
If you always fill your gas tank according to your manual and keep your gas cap clean, then your problem may lie with the integrity of the fuel cap.
The best way to check if you have a bad gas cap is by examining it closely. Do it have:
A LOOK INSIDE A NON SERVICEABLE VENTED FUEL CAP
- A crumbling seal?
- Cracks in the cap?
- Only a plastic pin on the underside of your cap? (Tecumseh Brand)
- Problems with tightening the cap?
- A smell of gas coming from your mower?
- No clicking sound when you screw the cap into the fuel tank?
If you encounter any of the above issues, then your cap is due to be replaced. Check your owner’s manual to find information on the correct cap to use or tell your local mechanic the make and model of your lawnmower.
Depending on the model of your mower, some gas caps will make a clicking sound when sufficiently tightened.
Remember, even if your fuel cap is new, it can still have problems from the manufacturer so double-check the above signs even with cap is brand new.
Other Causes of Gas Spitting From A Lawnmower Fuel Cap
The fuel-spewing issues can also occur due to an increase in vibration when using the mower. Usually, the problem is simply compounding the existing issue with a gas cap but let’s go over these quickly.
Any lawnmower will have some degree of vibrations. Naturally, the problem occurs when the motion is exacerbated by things such as:
- Loose bolts or mounts
- Broken parts
- Unbalanced blades
- A bent crankshaft
These parts can range from cheap to really expensive to fix, but you don’t want to keep running your mower without fixing these issues. Allowing your mower to vibrate excessively while you use it can further damage it, and you can put yourself at risk of bodily harm since parts can dislodge from the mower.
Loose bolts and mounts are easy to fix if you have a socket wrench, so you can tighten those at home. You can also fix unbalanced blades yourself as long as they’re not bent.
To fix your blade problem, check and make sure the blades are screwed onto your mower tightly and correctly. If the issue is not with how the blade is installed, you will have to do the following to fix it:
- Make sure your lawnmower is off
- Unplug your spark plug
- Take the blade off
- Hang your blade off a nail on your wall
- Sharpen the side of the blade that hangs lower on the nail
- Reinstall your blade
- Plug your spark plug back in
- Turn your mower on
This should immediately fix the vibration issue.
If you’re experiencing issues with other broken parts of the mower, like the crank shaft, contact a mechanic. Crankshafts are hard to fix if you don’t have the right tools.
Can You Use Your Mower Without a Fuel Cap?
After reading all of the above, you might be wondering, can you use your mower without the fuel cap? It definitely seems like a quick solution to most of the pressure issues we’ve talked about! While some people say you can run your mower without a gas cap, we do not recommend it.
If you run your mower capless, you’re more likely to spill gas as it sloshes around in the tank, and it might go undetected as you mow. This is a fire hazard (source).
Gas caps also keep sediment and debris out of your gas tank. Sediment in the tank can keep your lawnmower from starting or even damage the engine.
Finally, gas caps keep harmful fumes from escaping.
Overall it’s just best not to risk it.
Conclusion
A problem of gas spitting out the gas tank of a lawnmower is almost always an indicator that there is an issue with the gas cap. Even when the tank is overfilled, a properly fitting cap should prevent this.
Clean it, make sure it isn’t cracked, and if necessary, replace it. Do not ignore this issue or simply run the mower without a gas cap. It’s there for a reason. Purchase a replacement gas cap online (link to Amazon) or check your manufacturer’s website.
Paul has a two-acre yard on red clay soil in Southeast Texas. He knows exactly what the challenges are to nurturing a thriving yard in difficult soil.Paul takes a practical approach to yard improvement and enjoys putting best practices and “golden rules of lawn care” to the test.
Temporary Lawn Mower Gas Cap (A Few Ideas)
If you’ve lost the gas cap for your lawn mower, have searched “can I use my lawn mower without a gas cap” and realized it’s not a good idea, what options do you have? Obviously buying a replacement is the most logical thing to do. But what if you really need to mow your lawn right now and have no time to run to the store. In that case, creating your own temporary lawn mower gas cap is your best option.
A temporary gas cap can be made out of a whole manner of things you may have lying around the house, including aluminum foil, plastic cap, part of a plastic bag and cork. It may also be possible to borrow the gas cap from other power tools you own.
Things You Could Use to Create a Temporary Lawn Mower Gas Cap
The key word here is “temporary”. None of these ideas are supposed to replace your gas cap. They are temporary solutions that will allow you to mow if you’re in a bind, but a replacement cap should be sourced as soon as possible.
That said, here are a few ideas for things you could use.
Aluminum Foil
It’s very likely you have some of this in the kitchen. Grab a roll, tear off a small piece that is big enough to cover the opening to your gas tank, and then secure it in place with a rubber Band.
Plastic Cap
Have a look in the kitchen and see if you have any plastic bottles or other containers that have a cap big enough to cover the opening to your mower’s gas tank. You could also have a look in your shed or garage. Sometimes the cap for a gas can will actually be the perfect fit.
If you find one, you’ll need to use a rubber Band or some duct tape to secure it into place.
Plastic Bag
This is similar to the foil. If you don’t have any of that, you can take a plastic bag, cut a piece off, cover the tank opening and fix it into place with a rubber Band. Not ideal, but it’ll seal the opening for the time being.
Cork
A lot of corks (like those from wine bottles) are unlikely to be thick enough to cover the opening to your gas tank. But if you have a cork that’s bigger than that, it might just do the job.
Caps from Other Gas Powered Tools
Do you have any other gas-powered tools sitting in your shed or garage? Maybe a hedge trimmer, weed wacker, scarifier…Whatever tools you have, check the gas caps on them. It’s possible that you might get lucky and one of them might fit (or at least cover) your lawn mower gas tank.
Don’t Use a Rag
If you’ve been doing some research online, it’s possible that you will have come across suggestions to stuff a rag or some cloth into the gas tank opening to block it up.
I personally wouldn’t recommend doing this. The problem I see is that cloth or rag can soak through with gas and may start to drip onto the deck and your grass.
So if you want to avoid a lawn mower on fire and dead patches of grass on your lawn, stick to the other suggestions above, or better still, go buy a replacement now.
Using a Temporary Lawn Mower Gas Cap: Final Thoughts
Before you run off to go and create your temporary lawn mower gas cap, here are a few final thoughts about doing this:
- Only Use a Temporary Gas Cap if You Have to – If you do create your own gas cap, no matter how well-crafted you think it is, there’s always going to be a risk to using your mower like this. So only mow your grass with a temporary cap if it’s absolutely necessary. If there’s any possibility of delaying your mowing session until you can buy a replacement gas cap, please do. That’s the best way to ensure your safety.
- Make Sure It’s “Just This One Time” – If you create a temporary gas cap and use your mower with it fitted and everything goes well, don’t fall into the trap of thinking it can serve as a replacement. A temporary cap can help you when you’re in a real bind and must get the lawn mowed (maybe you’re going away for summer vacation tomorrow and the store is closed today). But make sure you order a replacement and have it fitted by the next time you mow.
- Go Slow and Steady – A temporary lawn mower gas cap is not going to seal the gas tank as well as the proper cap will. So take a little extra care when mowing, going slower than normal to minimize the chances of the gas moving around in the tank and up towards the opening.
- Don’t Mow with a Full Tank – The fuller your tank, the more chance there is of you spilling gas with a temporary cap fitted. So if your tank is full right now, I’d recommend you remove some of the gas before you start.
Above all, be safe and sensible if you decide to mow with a temporary gas cap in place.
About Tom Greene
I’ve always had a keen interest in lawn care as long as I can remember. Friends used to call me the lawn mower guru (hence the site name), but I’m anything but. I just enjoy cutting my lawn and spending time outdoors. I also love the well-deserved doughnuts and coffee afterward!