How To

How to Care for a Lawn Tractor

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(1 Ratings)

Caring for a lawn tractor is somewhat similar in practice as caring for a walk behind mower with some minor differences. Keeping a lawn tractor in top shape keeps repair bills down and adds to its years of trouble free service. Follow these steps to care for a lawn tractor.

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Mower fluids
  • Cleaning supplies
  1. Step 1

    Check the fluids in the lawn tractor after each use. Keep the oil fresh and full to maintain a fully lubricated engine. Check the oil filter and change if needed. Gasoline must be fresh to avoid debris and contaminants from entering the combustion chamber and fouling the firing process.

  2. Step 2

    Replace the spark plug if it is cracked or when the engine begins to misfire. Inspect the gap on the plug and measure and adjust according to the lawn tractor's manual of operation to keep the engine firing properly.

  3. Step 3

    Keep the blades of the tractor sharp. Typically when grass blades appear to have a ragged edge, it is time to sharpen the blades. Remove the cutting deck of the tractor according to the owner's manual and remove and sharpen the blades.

  4. Step 4

    Clean the lawn tractor often and thoroughly. Wipe down the entire mower with a damp cloth and clear any dust or debris from around the engine compartment. Spray the underside of the mower's cutting deck to remove any built up grass clippings.

  5. Step 5

    Adjust the height of the wheels or cutting deck anti-scalping wheels for a closer, more even cut. Increasing or decreasing tire pressure can be a simple fix for height adjustment.

Tips & Warnings
  • Keep the lawn tractor inside or under a tarp or cover to prevent exposure to the elements. Leaving the mower outside leads to rusting and premature engine failure.
  • Keep the wheels and bearings lubricated.
  • Wear eye and hand protection when working on a lawn tractor.

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