As the weather warms up and grass begins to grow rapidly, having a well-maintained lawn mower is essential for keeping your yard neat and healthy. After sitting idle during the colder months, your mower needs some attention before it’s ready to tackle summer lawn care. Performing a few key maintenance tasks ensures it runs efficiently, cuts evenly, and lasts longer. In this blog, we’ll cover three essential tips to get your lawn mower in top shape for the summer season.
- Change the Oil and Replace the Air Filter
Just like a car, your lawn mower’s engine requires clean oil and air to run smoothly. Over time, old oil becomes dirty and less effective at lubricating the engine, while clogged air filters restrict airflow and reduce performance.
Steps to change the oil:
Check the manual: Refer to your mower’s manual for the recommended oil type and capacity.
Warm up the engine: Run the mower for a few minutes before changing the oil. This helps the oil flow out more easily.
Drain the old oil: Tilt the mower or use the designated oil drain plug to remove the old oil. Dispose of it properly at a recycling center.
Refill with fresh oil: Add the recommended amount of fresh oil and check the dipstick to ensure you have the correct level.
Replace the air filter:
Locate the filter: Most mowers have either a foam or paper air filter.
Clean or replace it: For foam filters, wash them with soap and water, let them dry completely, and apply a small amount of engine oil to the surface before reinstalling. For paper filters, simply replace them if they are dirty or clogged.
Why it matters:
Improved performance: Fresh oil and a clean air filter prevent the engine from overheating and ensure smoother operation.
Longer engine life: Regular oil changes reduce wear and tear, extending the mower’s lifespan.
- Sharpen and Balance the Blade
A dull mower blade tears the grass instead of cutting it cleanly, which weakens your lawn and makes it more vulnerable to disease. Sharpening and balancing the blade ensures a precise, even cut.
Steps to sharpen the blade:
Disconnect the spark plug: This prevents the mower from accidentally starting while you’re working.
Remove the blade: Use a wrench to carefully loosen the bolt securing the blade.
Sharpen with a file or grinder: Wear safety gloves and glasses, and sharpen the blade at a 45-degree angle. Make 4–5 passes on each side, keeping the edge even.
Balance the blade: Place the blade on a balancing tool or hang it on a nail. If one side dips lower, file off some material from that side until it balances evenly.
Why it matters:
Healthier lawn: A sharp blade creates clean cuts, reducing stress on the grass and promoting healthier growth.
Better fuel efficiency: A balanced blade reduces strain on the engine, helping it run more efficiently.
- Check the Spark Plug and Fuel System
A faulty spark plug or old fuel can cause your mower to run poorly or fail to start altogether. Checking and replacing these components ensures reliable performance throughout the summer.
Inspect the spark plug:
Remove the spark plug: Use a spark plug wrench to unscrew it.
Check for wear: If the plug is dirty, corroded, or has a worn electrode, replace it.
Reinstall or replace: Install the new or cleaned plug and tighten it securely.
Refresh the fuel system:
Drain old fuel: If you left fuel in the tank over the winter, it may have degraded and become less effective. Empty the tank and refill it with fresh fuel.
Use a fuel stabilizer: Adding a fuel stabilizer can prevent fuel from going bad and keep the engine running smoothly.
Why it matters:
Easier starting: A new or clean spark plug ensures your mower starts quickly and runs consistently.
Efficient fuel consumption: Fresh fuel and a clean system improve the mower’s fuel efficiency.
Bonus Tip: Clean and Inspect the Mower
Before heading out for your first mow, give your machine a thorough cleaning and inspection:
Clear out grass clippings: Remove any built-up grass from under the deck, as it can cause uneven mowing.
Tighten loose bolts and screws: Check all fasteners and tighten any that may have loosened over time.
Lubricate moving parts: Apply lubricant to wheels, cables, and other moving components to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
Conclusion
Taking the time to properly prepare your lawn mower for summer ensures it runs efficiently, cuts cleanly, and lasts longer. By changing the oil, sharpening the blade, and inspecting key components like the spark plug and fuel system, you’ll have a reliable machine ready to keep your lawn looking its best all season long. With a little pre-season care, you can enjoy a smooth and stress-free mowing experience.
