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.
About Author :
Keith Kingston is a professional web publisher, offering
information on lawn mowers and lawn mower parts. You can visit
his website at http://www.4-lawnmowers.com/