Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

So, I was able to break out the 2-stage honda a couple of weeks ago. It was brand new and never had gas in it for 2 yrs, until 2 weeks ago. Worked like a charm on wet heavy snow with my steep driveway. anyway, I have to put it away now. I might not need it for another couple of years. I know, I know, I should've just hired someone to do my driveway. But, hey, I like my power tools. I've read a couple of past threads on what to do for storage, but since this is for long term storage, is there anything extra I should do? 1. drain gas tank, I didn't use stabil because it was a last minute decision to use the snow blower. Or should I empty it and put in a fresh 1/4 tank with stabil? Or just add stabil to a nearly empty tank now? 2. change oil 3. wash it, dry it, and grease the moving parts 4. paint the underside of the front housing that got scratched on the concrete to reduces chances of rust? is this really needed? 5. oil the cylinder? is this really needed? I figure only, numbers 1-3 are necessary. thanks for the help

1. Check the owner's manual, it can be downloaded if need be.

2. Higher octane gas from gas stations does not hurt the engine. It may be overkill from an octane/knocking point of view. Where I live the lower octane fuel may (probably) have ethanol in it. The high octane doesn't and all the OPE dealers recommend using non ethanol impregnated fuel.

3. The last Honda OPE repair person I talked to recommended a full tank of fresh, stabilized, non ethanol gas at the beginning of the storage season. They also said to turn off the fuel valve, run the engine dry and then drain the carburetor . I did and my unit started first try the NEXT winter. The two concerns were that the steel gas tank could rust and water contamination/condensation with an empty or partially full tank. If storage goes on longer than till next winter I suspect draining the tank and putting in fresh fuel before turning on the fuel valve would be a good idea. Draining the tank and then fogging it also seems like a good option for longer term storage.

4. Lube everything you can think of, especially the auger rakes.

5. Check fluid levels and either top up or replace depending on level and condition.

6. If there is a battery remove it, check fluid levels and put on a trickle charge.

7. Check all bolts/fittings and secure as needed.

8. Clean and then paint scratches.

Put some scrap 2x's under the chassis to take weight off the tires.  They will lose air, and trying to inflate an empty tire with a flat spot can be a challenge.