03/01/2023
Seasoned DIY lawn warriors out there know the importance of equipment maintenance. Here is a PSA for all the beginners to keep your mowers in top condition for the 2023 lawn care season.
Before your first mow, it's important to do a overhaul.
As safety is always a top concern, before doing any maintenance, disconnect the spark plug. **Statistic revealed that over 20,000 people are injured every year, and 75 people on average die from their injuries. Don't rush things, take your time and do it safely!
Clean/Replace Air Filter
To save gas and you engine, you will want to keep an eye on your air filter. There are 2 types of filters; paper, which is replaceable and foam, which is cleanable. Clean your foam filter 1 - 2 times per season. Use liquid soap and hot water to clean the filter, while making sure you rinse until the water runs clear. Paper filters need to be changed annually and are typically inexpensive. Your air filter will be located on the opposite side of your engine oil cap/dipstick. The housing should open with a screw assembly or a latch.
Check/Changing Your Mower Oil
You will need to do this 1 - 2 times per season. Checking the oil on your mower is just like checking it in your vehicle, twist the oil cap, pull out the dipstick, wipe the dipstick and put it right back making sure to twist it closed all the way. Then pull it back out to check the oil level and color. The dipstick should have a small textured section to indicate your oil level, this should be between mid-level to full. If it's near "low" or "add" or below this, you will need to add more oil. Most mowers take SAE-30, you can always check you manual/google to be sure. Now that we have that covered, let's talk color. As long as the oil is a golden brown and free of sediments, your good to go!! If you find that it's black, thick or chunky... This means it's time for a change!
Changing you oil
Finding your drain plug can be tricky (if it has a drain plug at all), having your user manual could come in handy at this time. Typically it will be located under the deck or off to the side of the dipstick, if it's off to the side you will need to tip the mower to get it drained. Then simply drain and refill.
Replace your spark plugs when needed!
If you find your mower is starting slow, changing the spark plugs is a quick and inexpensive process. Some warriors do this annually but every 2 - 3 years is fine as long as your mower is firing up without any problems.
Keep that deck squeaky clean!
We suggest cleaning after every mow to get top performance. Make sure when tipping your mower over that you keep the side with the air filter pointed towards the sky to ensure that liquids such as oil, doesn't leak into it. You will brush away any grass/dirt with gloved hands or a broom. If it's really caked on give it a really good clean with a brush and soapy water.
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