These are complaints I hear often from friends and acquaintances who have recently purchased new lawn equipment. It's typically the same exclamation... "It just quits on me!" While I'm no "expert" on power equipment, I wanted to share some information on this topic since in today's economy all of us can't afford costly repairs to and replacements of our riding mowers...
A while back I had read this article online from the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute that details some about the effects of ethanol gasoline in the engines of outdoor power equipment and I suggest you read it as well. This was a real eye opener to me!
Included below are a few more links with information about ethanol and additives / stabilizers that are available:
411 on Ethanol
"Ethanol could kill your small engine" (this article is a little older but still informative)
epa.gov - FAQ | Reformulated Gas
For more information, check out your local Power Equipment Sales and Service Center or call the manufacturer of your product for tips on use and care to keep your power equipment running like it should. Remember, regular maintenance is just as important to your lawn equipment as it is to your car!