Lawn Mower Tuneup Checklist
Homeowners often take great pride in having a trim, green lawn. A lawn mower plays a key role in this quest and is an essential tool in any lawn care routine. However, your mower can quickly become a liability for your lawn if you do not maintain it properly. Giving it a tune-up at the start of each season ensures that it can provide peak performance and keep your grass healthy and neat. Keep a checklist of tune-up necessities to avoid forgetting any of the steps so your mower operates without issue all spring and summer. Does this Spark an idea?
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Clean
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Your mower will operate more effectively if it is clean. Begin your tune-up by cleaning the machine of grass clippings and debris that may impair its performance. Use a hose with a strong spray to remove clinging debris and scrub particularly soiled areas with a soft brush and soapy water. Rinse the mower thoroughly. Clear the under carriage using a putty knife or screwdriver to pry away grass and debris. You can use a wooden stick or dowel to remove debris from the cooling fins if you have a mower with an air-cooled engine.
Sharpen Blades
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Sharpening your mower's blades annually ensures top performance. If your blade is dull, it tears the grass so it becomes damaged and is more vulnerable to disease. Take your mower to have its blade professionally sharpened. If there are dents or knicks in it, replace the blade. In addition, make sure that the blade is properly balanced to prevent damage to the engine and bearings.
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Change Oil and Filter
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Change your mower's oil at least once a year to ensure proper lubrication. Clean oil also helps reduce friction in the engine for better performance. Consult the manufacturer's instructions for the proper way to change your mower's oil. In most cases, start by wiping the oil fill area clean and pulling out the dipstick. Remember to set a can beneath the mower to catch the oil so you do not make a mess. Depending on your mower's set-up, either remove the drain plug beneath the deck to remove the oil, or turn the mower on its side so the old oil can drain out through the fill tube. Install a new oil filter and add fresh oil to the mower.
Change Air Filter
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If your mower's air filter is clogged, it consumes more fuel and the engine may run roughly. Each spring, clean or replace the filter depending on its condition. Consult your owner's manual to verify that you are using the right type of air filter for your model. Check the air filter occasionally throughout the spring and summer to make sure that it does not become clogged after repeated use.
Replace Spark Plug
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Replace your mower's spark plug very year. A damaged spark plug may cause issues when you are trying to start your mower. Begin by removing the old spark plug from the engine. If there is any debris or dirt on the surrounding area, use a can of compressed air to blow it away. Consult your owner's manual to make sure that the new spark plug has the right torque and gap. Use your fingers to screw it into place, but switch to a socket wrench for the final 1/4 turn. To make it easier to remove the next spring, treat with an anti-seize compound.
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