After months of sitting idle, your lawnmower might be a little dusty and in need of some maintenance before the first grass cut of the year. Following these tips will help you stay ahead of the growth by ensuring your mower is ready to go once spring arrives.
Keep your mower running smoothly and efficiently by tuning it up every spring. A tune-up provides many benefits to your mower. For instance, a tune-up can extend the life of the engine, reduce repair costs, and increase fuel economy. There are three main parts involved in a mower tune-up: the air filter, spark plug, and oil. All three of these parts must be changed.
Before you begin this project, you will need several tools and materials on hand.
- 1 spark plug socket
- 4-in-1 screwdriver
- 1 socket/ratchet set
- 1 air filter
- engine oil
- 1 spark plug
Step #1: Change the Oil
First, you will need to run the engine for a few minutes to warm up the oil. This will help it drain well. Next, stop the engine, remove the drain plug, and empty the old oil. After that, replace the drain plug and fill the mower with oil. You can check the level on the dipstick (if equipped) or fill it until it’s visible through the oil fill hole.
Shop our collection of oil change kits here.
Step #2: Replace the Air Filter
Start by loosening the air filter cover screw and drop the cover down. Remove the old air filter and press the new one in. Make sure the paper pleats are facing out. Lastly, replace the cover and securely tighten the cover screw. A clean air filter helps maintain the proper fuel to air ratio which allows the mower to burn less gas.
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Step #3: Replace the Spark Plug
To begin, pull off the spark plug wire and remove the old plug (you will need a spark plug wrench or deep socket to do this). Next, manually turn the new plug until the threads catch. After that, ratchet the plug down until it stops. Finally, turn it another quarter turn. Do not crank down too hard- this can break the plug or make it almost impossible to remove. You will need to make sure there is a gap between the overhanging arm and the electrode. Your mower will not start if you drop the plug, and the overhanging arm bends tight to the electrode.
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It is important to sharpen your lawn mower blades. Dull blades rip and pull the grass blades. This leaves tears that both weaken the plant and promote fungal growth and other grass diseases. A sharp blade cuts cleanly which allows the plant to heal and recover quickly. Having sharp blades allows you to mow the lawn faster and creates less stress on the mower.
If your mower blade is bent, dull after being sharpened twice, or has dents, gouges, and/or pieces missing, it’s time to be replaced. Check out our large collection of lawnmower replacement blades for the brands you know and love here.
Cleaning your lawnmower and keeping it clean can improve its efficiency and lengthen its lifespan. Routine cleaning helps prevent build-up and corrosion. It also minimizes the spread of lawn diseases. Cleaning your mower is easiest after just cutting your lawn and should be done about once a month during peak season.
Mower Cleaning Instructions:
First, make sure the gas tank is empty. Next, prop the mower on its side using a sturdy block or other strong object to hold it in place. You will need to access the underside of the mower deck. For 4-stroke mowers tip the machine so the sparkplug is pointing towards the sky. Do not angle the spark plug towards the ground. 2-stroke mowers need to have their fuel tap turned off before cleaning.
We recommend wearing gloves to physically remove any debris that may be wrapped around the blade or along the bottom of the mower deck. Next, spray the underside of the mower deck with a hose to loosen dried-on dirt and grass. After, spray the bottom of the mower deck with a full-strength all-purpose cleaner. Use a stiff-bristled brush to lift dirt, oil, and grime. Rinse thoroughly before setting your mower upright. Use the all-purpose cleaner to spray the lawnmower housing (avoid spraying any exposed wire, starter assembly, or electronics). Use a paper towel or rag to remove oil, residue, or grass build-up.
It’s important to make sure all the moving parts on your lawnmower are properly lubricated. Lubricating your mower prevents friction, protects the machine, reduces costs associated with maintenance, and improves the overall efficiency of the machine. The frequency of performing this task will depend on how often you use your lawnmower. For a normal lawnmower, the wheels should be greased every month or so and at the start of mowing season. Commercial mowers on the other hand that cut large areas of grass need to be lubricated once a day. For best results, refer to your owner’s manual for the correct motor oil grade that is suitable for your specific lawnmower.
Performing annual maintenance on your lawnmower will help it last for many years. Following these tips will improve your mower’s performance and keep your grass looking great all season long.
