It’s that time of year again; with spring just around the corner, grass will soon be demanding your attention. In all likelihood, your lawn mower probably hasn’t seen the light of day in a few months. After pulling it out of the garage or storage shed and dusting off the cobwebs, there are a few more things to do before tackling that sprouting lawn.
1. Change the oil. This is a necessary step to ensure that your lawn mower stays reliable well beyond the summer. It’s not difficult to change your lawn mower’s oil, but if you’re not comfortable doing it, you can take it to a professional for a small fee. If you choose to do it yourself, elevate your mower on cinder blocks to enable access to the drain plug. It may be necessary to use a tool to remove dried grass clippings around the plug. With a bucket or jug in place to catch the oil, open the plug and wait until the oil stops draining. Screw the plug back on, and re-fill the reservoir with oil. SAE 30 engine oil is compatible with most lawn mowers. If you have a two-cycle engine, be sure to use the appropriate oil. When in doubt, refer to your owners manual for information on oil use.
2. Use fresh gas. It would have been wise to drain the gas from your lawn mower following its final use last fall. If you did so, great. If not, the gas in your mower is probably too stale for immediate use. Drain the gas manually, or start your lawn mower and let it run until the old gas has burnt off. Be sure to follow local regulations when disposing unused fuel.
3. Change spark plugs. Gas powered mowers need a spark plug to start. While it probably isn’t necessary to change your spark plug every year, you should do so if its been a few years. A faulty spark plug has been the root of frustration for many-an-owner whose mower would not start.
4. Change the air filter. This should be done every two years. A clean air filter is essential for proper engine function. Throughout the year, clean your air filter regularly to keep other engine components running smoothly.
5. Sharpen the blades. It goes without being said that the blades are the most important part of your lawn mower. The appearance of your grass can greatly depend on the integrity of your blades. Dull blades can leave a lawn looking like it was chewed up. For the do-it-yourselfers out there, an angle grinder is the most efficient way to sharpen lawn mower blades. There are other tools that will also accomplish the job, so use what makes you comfortable. Most lawn care shops will gladly sharpen your blades, sometimes even without charge.
