Guide to Basic Lawn Mower Maintenance
Trying to start your lawn mower after a long winter can be very frustrating. Performing a
few routine maintenance tasks before you store your lawn mower for the winter can save you
time in the spring, prolong the life of your lawn mower, and save you money over the long run.
Even if you have already put your lawn mower into storage for the winter, a few simple
maintenance tasks performed before starting your lawn mower in the spring can be very
beneficial.Wash and dry your lawn mower after the mowing season is over. A power
blower can be very helpful in removing grass and debris from the underside of your lawn mower
and other hard to reach areas. If your lawn mower engine is air-cooled, use a stick or wooden
dowel to remove any residue from the cooling fins. If you have a lawn mower with a water-
cooled engine, check the coolant level and fill the reservoir if needed. Clean the radiator
cooling fins with a strong jet of water. You should also drain the fuel tank and replace the
fuel filter. The air filter housing should be cleaned and the air filter replaced.
Remember to check the spark plug(s) for corrosion and wear. Don't attempt to clean the spark
plug if it is showing some wear. It is cheap and easy to replace the spark plug. Be sure to
remove any debris before removing the spark plug and by using a bit of anti-seize compound
when you replace the old spark plug, you will ensure easier removal next year. Clean and
lubricate the throttle linkages and the choke, and apply grease to the mower deck and all the
fittings. This will be easier if you remove the mower deck and you can sharpen the blades
while the mower deck is off. Sharpening the blades after each mowing season will give you a
better cut next year and save you the trouble of having to sharpen them in the spring.
Clean the battery terminals and replace your old lawn mower battery if necessary. You can
help prevent corrosion of the terminals if you apply grease to the posts at the end of each
mowing season. Change the oil in the engine crankcase and replace the oil filter. You should
also drain the gas from your lawn mower before storing it for the winter. During the long
summer mowing season, remember to wash your lawn mower and remove any debris after the mower
has cooled. Keeping your lawn mower clean will add years to its life and make routine
maintenance tasks a lot easier.
Lawn mowing is a job most of us face each and every
year. A lawn mower that runs great and is well maintained will make this job more enjoyable
and easier all summer long. A yearly check up for your lawn mower is the perfect way to
prolong its life and keep it running like new, and your lawn will look great when you mow with
a machine that is in top working condition. Your lawn mower will perform at the highest level
possible if you remember to perform these simple maintenance tasks each and every year.
During the summer months periodically check the oil and the condition of the air and fuel
filters. You will save money and your lawn mower will work great for years to come
