DIY: Lawnmower Tuneups

A tune-up will make your mower perform better.

Like any other machine, lawnmowers with internal-combustion engines need regular maintenance to perform at peak levels. Because lawnmowers are powered by gasoline and burn oil, the internal engine components become clogged and have to be changed from time to time. As a maintenance project, a lawnmower tune-up only requires a few hand tools and no exceptional mechanical experience. Does this Spark an idea?

Things You'll Need

• Fuel filter
• Air filter
• Spark plug
• Pliers
• Screwdriver
• Socket wrench
• Gloves
• Engine degreaser

Instructions

1. Place your lawnmower on a level surface. Let it cool completely if you just used it. Write down the manufacturer and model number.

2. Go to a hardware or small-engine repair shop and purchase a fuel filter, air filter and new spark plug.

3. Locate the fuel filter--a small plastic "bubble" with a little visible fuel. Remove it with pliers and connect the new fuel filter in its place.

4. Take off the engine cover using a screwdriver. Locate the air filter over the carburetor and open the air filter compartment. Pull the old air filter out and replace it with the new one. Close the compartment and replace the engine cover.

5. Unfasten and remove the spark plug with a socket wrench. Insert the new spark plug and tighten into place with your socket wrench.

6. Put on gloves. Turn the mower on its side and clean out any debris and grass stuck under the deck and around the blade.

7. Spray the entire engine down liberally with a degreaser. Let the degreaser work and evaporate as directed by the manufacturer before using your lawnmower.

Tips & Warnings

• When you tune-up your lawnmower, check the belts. These are designed to last the lifetime of the mower but can become stretched and cracked.

References

• "Small Engine Care & Repair"; Daniel London; 2003
• "Walk-Behind Lawn Mower Service Manual"; Intertec Publishing; 1997