How to Properly Store Your Lawn Mower for the Winter

It’s almost winter time again. That means you’ll have to get ready to put the lawn mower away until next spring. But there are a few things you should do to your lawn mower before you store it for the winter.

Lawn mower maintenance is required to keep your mower running properly for years to come.

If you’re wondering what to do with your lawn mower before storing it away safely, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’re discussing the basics of lawn mower maintenance. Keep reading to learn more.

Empty or Drain the Gas Tank

Keeping the gas tank clean will ensure that it doesn’t get gunked up over the winter. Unused gas can cause rust and gum up the carburetor if left to sit.

It’s recommended to add fuel stabilizer to the tank before running the mower, allowing the fuel stabilizer to run through the entire engine system. Once the engine cools you can siphon the remaining gas into a clean can. Watch out not to mix it with oil so you can recycle the gas in your car or truck.

Once all the gas is removed, restart the mower and run it until it turns off. Keep doing this until the fuel lines are empty.

Replace the Spark Plug

The next step is to replace the spark plug. Make sure you do this before any remaining lawn mower maintenance to ensure safety. You can take the spark plug out while you perform the remaining steps.

You shouldn’t need to change your spark plug every year but it’s a good idea to remove it while working on your mower so that it doesn’t accidentally start.

Change the Oil

If you’re running a 4-cycle engine, you’ll need to change the oil. 2-cycle engines mix the oil and gas together.

Prepare an oil pan to catch the oil. Remove the dipstick and tilt the lawnmower on the opposing side of the air filter and carburetor. This ensures that oil doesn’t spill into the gas.

Remove the plug and tilt the mower to drain the oil. Don’t forget to replace the plug when you’re done.

Clean Out the Undercarriage

To prevent rust and wear on your lawnmower, you should clean out the undercarriage.

You can use a putty knife or large flathead screwdriver to scrape off grass and mud residue that is caked under the mower deck. You can remove the blade for easier access to the undercarriage before you begin cleaning.

Change the Air Filter

A dirty air filter will prevent your mower from running its best. Replace the air filter this fall so you don’t have to think about it when you’re ready to start up the mower next spring.

Lawn Mower Maintenance

In order to keep your lawn mower running efficiently for seasons to come, you need to maintain it properly each fall. Don’t cut yourself short next spring when you have to buy a new lawn mower for not taking care of business now.

If you find yourself in need of lawn mower maintenance or repair, you can contact us! We have an on-site service department with knowledgeable staff.