Its no secret that your Gas Powered tools are probably the most expensive tools you own so taking care of them will protect your investment for many years.
You should read the directions for each tool and follow any different recommendations that the manufacture suggests but for the most part there are a few simple steps you can take to store you tools over winter.
First you should empty any gasoline from your tools. Some people suggest that you go out and buy a $15 bottle of fuel stabilizer for long term storage but getting the gas out especially if its 2 stroke oil gas will go a long way to making sure that nasty gumming of your carburetor and fuel system don’t happen while your not using them.
Oil is another thing. Most tools require oil changes and some like your chainsaw may use it as a consumable. The real thing to do here is either remove the oil or change it now with fresh oil. The choice is yours but risking a dry start-up next season by your kid that wants to cut the grass early will save you a new engine if you empty the old and replace it with new.
General cleaning should be done. Using soap and water where needed and a shot of carb cleaner might be a good idea. You should also remove and clean your sponge air filters.
If you are working on a tool with a cutting blade coat the bare metal with a little wd40 or other light oil.
Once your tools are clean you have to decide where you will store them.
The shed is great during the summer but your garage if connected to your home should keep a normal temperature of over 40F even if not heated. Then again you don’t want to fill up your garage so you can’t get a car in if you need to do a repair or just want to keep it warm for in the mornings. The choice is up to you but smaller expensive tools should really find a place inside your house so you don’t have to worry about them getting stolen over winter. You won’t be going out to the shed that often so having them inside is peace of mind.
Any painting you might want to do is great to clean up your tools but it has to be at least 65F for the paint to dry correctly so leave it until next year if its already cold out.
Well that’s pretty much what you need to do. Remember to check your manufacturers info for specific details and while you are doing this its probably a good time to get out the snow blower and make sure its in good condition.
The YouRepair Store has a large variety of power tools and accessories.
Remember that most orders over $25 can ship free with super saver shipping.