How to Maintain a Push Lawn Mower

Regular maintenance prolongs your lawn mower's life and performance. Read and follow the suggestions found in your owner's manual. Perform simple home maintenance and schedule yearly tune ups to keep your lawn mower in tip top shape for years to come.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Read the operating and service instruction manual provided with your lawn mower. Perform suggested maintenance. Use the gasoline and oil recommended by the manufacturer. Schedule a lawn mower inspection by a qualified mechanic once a year.

2. Check the condition of your lawn mower's spark plugs for dirt or signs of wear. Clean spark plugs in good condition or replace spark plugs that show signs of deterioration.

3. Tighten loose bolts and screws on your lawn mower regularly. Sharpen mower blades. Check blade mounting screws and bolts. Replace dirty air filters and loose or wobbly wheels.

4. Clean the underside of the lawn mower with a strong stream of water at least twice during mowing season. Drain any remaining oil and gas before performing Spring maintenance on the mower. Unplug your spark plugs and tip your lawn mower on its' side. Use a garden hose to clean the underside of the mower. Brush off any remaining grass or dirt and allow the mower to dry.

5. Put fresh lawn mower oil and new gasoline in your lawn mower each Spring. Check the oil level in your lawn mower throughout the season. Unscrew the oil cap and remove the dipstick. Clean any oil from the dipstick and replace the it in the oil container. Remove the dipstick again and check the oil level in your mower. Add new lawn mower oil if levels are low.

6. Allow your lawn mower's engine to run until it is out of gas before storing your lawn mower for the season. Check your owner's manual for off-season maintenance specific to your brand of lawn mower.