Jackson 517-782-3319

Lansing 517-321-3570

 

 

Jackson 517-782-3319

Lansing 517-321-3570

 

 

Jackson 517-782-3319

Lansing 517-321-3570

        Lawn Mower Maintenance for Spring

        By
        3 Minutes Read

        At the start of the mowing season, make sure to give your lawn mower some extra attention and care. No matter what type of mower you have, following these maintenance tips is essential for keeping it in good shape and ensuring it has a long life. Following these tips will also result in better performance from your mower.

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        Tips for Preparing a Lawn Mower

        1. Clean Your Mower Engine

        Keeping your lawn mower in tip-top shape is essential for a beautiful lawn. To do this, it's important to check and clean the engine regularly as the build-up of grass, leaves, and other debris can lead to power loss or damage.

        To clean the engine, start by disconnecting the spark plug lead to prevent accidental startup. Use a bristle brush to scrape off dirt from the flywheel fins, cooling fins, and blower housing. For greasy areas, use a degreaser and wipe it off with a cloth. When finished, reconnect the spark plug.

        Consult the user guide of the lawn mower for further instructions concerning engine care and to learn the frequency of engine cleaning.

        2. Be sure to change the Engine Oil and Filters

        Filters

        Before you start mowing, make sure to check your lawn mower's air filter. This will ensure that dirt and debris do not enter the engine and cause it to run improperly. If the filter is still clean, no replacement is necessary.

        If it is dirty or damaged, however, you should replace it with a new one. Make sure to follow the engine manufacturer's instructions in your operator's manual for instructions on how to remove and install the air filter.

        Oil

        To ensure maximum efficiency and a longer lifespan for your lawn mower, it is important to be consistent with oil changes. The best time to do this is when you are preparing for the mowing season.

        Additionally, the manufacturer should provide you with specific timing guidelines for when the oil should be changed. If the oil appears dark or contains debris, it is crucial to replace it. Finally, make sure to check the oil levels regularly throughout the season.

        3. Be Sure the Mower Deck is Clean

        It is important to clean the underside of your lawn mower regularly in order to avoid the accumulation of grass, leaves, and other debris. If too much organic material builds up, the mower's performance and blade efficiency will be reduced. We suggest cleaning the mower deck annually in the spring and regularly during the mowing season. For safety, ensure the mower is turned off and the batteries are disconnected before you begin.

        4. Grease the Lubrication Points

        Lubricating the components of your lawn mower can help protect it from rust and keep it running efficiently. Check the instruction manual to find out what parts need to be greased, and use a cloth to remove any extra grease.

        5. Check the Lawn Mower Parts

        Eventually, the components of your mower will be worn and require changing, including the spark plugs, belts, and batteries. To keep your mower in working condition, follow the manufacturer's instructions for how often to replace parts and use the original manufacturer's parts. Here is a list of a few of the parts that you should review every year.

        Blades

        Using a mower with dull or damaged blades takes longer and can damage the grass, leaving it more susceptible to fungal development or illnesses that propagate quickly. To inspect the blades, it is necessary to first take off the mower deck.

        Check the operator's manual to find out how to properly remove the deck and blades. If the blades have chips, cracks, or bends, they should be substituted. Utilizing sharp and balanced blades will give you a better cut and lessen the need to mow the same spot twice.

        It is not advised for those without experience to change the blades on a lawn mower, therefore it is recommended to take it to a certified expert. Contact The Power Barn to book an appointment for blade replacement.   

        Spark Plugs

        Keeping your lawn mower's spark plug in good condition can improve its fuel efficiency and performance. Winterizing your mower correctly can prevent the need for frequent replacements. If your spark plug is a little dirty or the engine is not running right, you should change it. Refer to your operator's manual to learn the instructions for removing and installing a new spark plug.

        Belts

        It is important to carefully check all the belts on your lawn mower to make sure they are in good condition. If you find any belts that are worn out, cracked, or twisted, it is best to replace them right away in order to avoid any further damage to your batteries

        Battery

        Look at the batteries that have gone unused while your lawn mower was not in use. If they appear to be damaged or not functioning properly, exchange them for new ones. If you need help knowing how to switch the battery in your zero-turn mower, watch this video for guidance.

        Tires

        It is important to make sure that the tires on your lawn mower are inflated to the correct pressure in order to produce an even cut. Check that all the tires are at the same pressure and replace any that are worn or damaged. 

        Before the new mowing season begins, be sure to check your lawn mower for any potential issues that could create problems or damage the machine. Taking preventative measures now will extend the life of your mower and help you to have an easy and successful mowing season.

        Keep the Power Barn in mind for the parts or if you need to have us perform the service so you can enjoy the season of mowing ahead!

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        Picture of Ryusei

        Ryusei

        Ryusei is the general manager of the Power Barn in Lansing and Jackson, Michigan, and enjoys repairing power equipment.

        Author