How To Winterize Your Lawn Mower

Introduction:

As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, it's time to start thinking about preparing your lawn mower for the winter season. Properly winterizing your mower can help extend its lifespan and ensure it's ready to go when spring rolls around. In this guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps to winterize your lawn mower and protect your investment. Plus, we'll highlight some valuable tips along the way.

Step 1: Clean Your Lawn Mower

Before you tuck your mower away for the winter, give it a thorough cleaning. Grass clippings, dirt, and debris can corrode your mower's metal components over time. Here's how to do it:

1. Disconnect the spark plug: Safety first! Remove the spark plug wire to prevent any accidental starts.
2. Scrape the deck: Use a putty knife or a scraper to remove built-up grass and debris from the mower's deck.
3. Clean the undercarriage: Turn the mower on its side (with the air filter and carburetor facing up) and use a hose or a pressure washer to clean the undercarriage. This will help prevent rust and ensure proper airflow next season.
4. Wash the exterior: Use a sponge or cloth to clean the exterior of the mower, including the engine, handles, and wheels. Be cautious not to get water into the engine or carburetor.

Step 2: Change the Oil

Changing the oil is crucial for maintaining your mower's engine health during the winter months. Old oil can contain contaminants that may cause damage when your mower is stored. Here's how to change the oil:

1. Run the engine: Start the mower and let it run for a few minutes to warm the oil, making it easier to drain.
2. Drain the oil: Locate the oil drain plug (usually on the underside of the engine) and place an oil pan beneath it. Remove the plug and let the oil drain completely.
3. Replace the oil filter: If your mower has an oil filter, replace it with a new one.
4. Refill with fresh oil: Refer to your owner's manual for the recommended type and quantity of oil. Pour in the new oil and check the oil level with the dipstick.

Step 3: Replace the Spark Plug

Installing a new spark plug is a simple but effective way to ensure your mower starts smoothly in the spring. Follow these steps:

1. Remove the old spark plug: Use a spark plug socket wrench to remove the old plug.
2. Check the gap: Refer to your owner's manual for the correct spark plug gap, and adjust it if necessary on the new plug.
3. Install the new spark plug: Thread the new plug into the spark plug hole by hand, then use the wrench to tighten it snugly.

Step 4: Stabilize the Fuel

Stale fuel can gum up your mower's carburetor and cause starting issues in the spring. To prevent this, follow these steps:

1. Add a fuel stabilizer: Pour a fuel stabilizer into the gas tank and run the engine for a few minutes to ensure it circulates through the carburetor.
2. Top off the fuel tank: Fill the tank with fresh gasoline to prevent condensation from forming inside.

Step 5: Store Your Mower Properly

Now that your mower is clean and prepared, it's time to store it in a suitable location. Here's what you need to do:

1. Choose a dry, sheltered spot: Find a cool, dry place like a garage or shed to store your mower. If you must leave it outdoors, consider using a weatherproof cover.
2. Elevate the mower: To prevent flat spots on the tires, elevate your mower off the ground using a sturdy platform.
3. Disconnect the battery: If your mower has an electric start or battery, disconnect it to prevent drainage.
4. Cover the air filter and carburetor: Use a plastic bag or a piece of cardboard to cover the air filter and carburetor to prevent moisture and critters from getting inside.

Conclusion:

Winterizing your lawn mower is a straightforward process that can help prolong its life and ensure it starts reliably in the spring. By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared for the colder months ahead. Don't forget to check out our large selection of lawn mower parts and accessories you may need to keep your mower running smoothly year-round. From mower blades and spindles to mower air filters and belts we have it all here at TK's Outdoor Parts.

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