Lawn mower maintenance diy. A Beginner’s Guide to Riding Lawn Mower Maintenance…

A Beginner’s Guide to Riding Lawn Mower Maintenance: Tips and Tricks for a Long-Lasting Machine

If you want a reliable mower all season, who doesn’t? Then your Riding mower will need a tune-up at least once a year, preferably in the spring before the season starts. If you want a reliable mower all season, then your Riding mower will need a tune-up at least once a year, preferably in the spring before the season starts.

So what is riding mower maintenance? To maintain a riding mower, the following components need attention:

At the very minimum, the oil should be changed at the start of the season. If your mower is new, change the oil after the first 5 hours of use. Some mowers will have a useful tune-up interval chart stuck under the hood or under the seat.

Topping Up Oil

Checking and topping up the oil is good practice, but it’s not a substitute for an oil change. If your mower has an oil filter, change it when changing the oil, this is where all the contaminants are trapped.

Info Sticker – Helpful charts are fitted to some mowers showing intervals and part numbers; however, I’ve found the Husqvarna belt labeling to be wrong; just saying!

About Your Gas Engine

All tractor-mower engines are very durable, failures, in my experience, are rare, and when they happen, it’s usually associated with poor or low oil. That’s why checking your oil regularly and oil changes are so important.

When To Tune-up Your Gas Engine?

When should I service? I advise my customers to service their mowers at the start of the season, not at the end. Mowers that overwinter without being prepared usually suffer from gummed carburetor issues. You can avoid gumming by adding a gas stabilizer to the fuel system.

What Is Gas Stabilizer?

Gumming of small engine carburetors is a real problem. Over the winter months, the old gas eats away at the inside of the carburetor. This is so common, and it’s so simple to prevent. Use a gas stabilizer at the season’s end; dump a few drops into a full tank of gas, and run the engine for a short while. See the video here about mixing and adding gas stabilizers.

If your mower is running rough, changing the oil, plugs, air, and fuel filter may not fix it. Gas mowers that run rough usually require carburetor cleaning. Check out “Carburetor troubleshooting.”

What Tools Are Needed?

A tune-up isn’t technical, and no special tools are needed. Like many tasks, it’s about the right knowledge and good preparation.

When it comes to tools, you don’t need top of a line kit but do buy good quality tools because good tools, well cared for, will last a lifetime.

What Tune-up Parts Needed?

All engines have a model code and date stamped somewhere. Briggs Stratton stamp their codes into the metal valve cover at the front of the engine. Kohler has a tag, and Honda has a sticker on the body.

Tune-Up Kits – Tune-up kits will include plug(s); oil; oil filter (if fitted); air filter; fuel filter – everything you need.

If you’re having trouble identifying your engine type, you can usually identify the right tune-up kit by the shape of the air filter.

Check out your engine maker specs:

Inspection Tune-up

In this guide, we will tune up a single-cylinder engine. In addition to a tune-up, doing an overall visual inspection is good practice. Mowers create a lot of vibration, so look for any loose or damaged components, check rear axle oil, belts, pulleys, deck spindles, deck arms, battery connections, cables, etc. Finding problems now is usually cheaper than them finding you later.

Your mower may not be the same as the demo model, but that’s not important; the process will be close to identical no matter what model you have.

Engine Makers

There are many different makes of mowers, and many are fitted with the very reliable Briggs Stratton single-cylinder engine. Kohler, Kawasaki, and Honda are also quite popular engines. All these engines are simple and easy to work on.

Tune-up Stepped Process

We’ll begin the tune-up process by starting and running the engine for a while, just long enough to warm the engine oil. Warm oil flows more freely, which helps remove more contaminants from the engine.

Ignition

1 Wire – Remove the plug wire and leave it off until you are ready to start the engine later in the process.

2 Plug – Remove the old spark plug. To avoid cross-threading, thread the new plug in by hand before using the plug tool.

Snug the plug down and give it a little tighten…. not too tight! Don’t fit the plug wire just yet.

Lubrication

3 Drain – Drain the oil while the engine is still warm; this helps the draining process.

4 Remove – If you can’t find your oil filter, then you don’t have one, so you can go ahead and skip this part.

Remove the old filter, you may need an oil filter tool, but they’re usually not that tight.

5 Fit Filter – When fitting the new filter, apply some oil to the O-ring; it prevents distorting the seal when fitting. Only tighten the filter – hand tight.

6 Add Oil – If your mower has an oil filter, then check the oil level again after your test run of the engine. This can be done at the end of the tune-up.

7 Check Levels – Add oil a little at a time, and check the level. Overfilling is not good for the engine. It will cause oil leaks, misfiring, and lots of smoke.

Axle

8 Check – Check the rear axle oil level. The front Axle has greasing points; for this, you’ll need a grease gun.

Air/Fuel System

9 Air – Remove the air filter and clean the airbox being careful not to allow dirt into the carburetor. Refit the new filter or clean the old filter, by tapping it on a hard surface or better-compressed air, but never wash a paper filter.

10 Remove – Gas filters are found on the gas line between the gas tank and the carburetor. If you have a gas tap fitted, it’s useful to turn it off before removing the old filter.

Gas filters may be directional, and if so will have an arrow that points to the carburetor.

11 Clean – Gas tank grit is common, I use a suction bottle and tube to remove it, and sometimes I have to remove the tank to clean it.

Blade Sharpening

12 Jack – Be sure to use an axle stand or block of wood to secure the mower, as you’ll be working under it.

Don’t take any chances. Check out the tools on the blade maintenance page.

Deck – If you are not comfortable working under your mower, then remove the deck. Most decks will be pretty simple to remove.

Balance – Removing deck blades for sharpening and balancing is the best practice. Inspect the blades for damage, and replace them if bent, cracked, or worn. If the blades are in good condition, you can sharpen them in place.

13 Sharpen – Sharpening your blade is done with a good quality flat metal file.

Flat – Begin by dressing the face of the blade to remove any small nicks.

Bevel – Now we will file at the same angle as the bevel; some blades will have the bevel facing the other way.

Dress – Now dress on the opposite side to remove the burrs. A sharp blade is the secret to a beautiful, healthy lawn, and it extends the life of your mower.

Belt Check

14 Check – Check the condition of the belts. Most mowers have at least two belts, one for driving the mower and one for driving the blades. Some mowers will have more.

Flat Spot – These belts have a difficult job and can be the cause of various issues. Regular inspection will tell you if your belt is at the end of its life.

Blistering – Things to look for are flat-spotting, glazing, cracking, and fraying.

Glazing – Worn or damaged belts cause slip, which in turn will cause vibration. The vibration can, if ignored, go on to cause lots of other issues.

Cracking – Better to take care of this now; waiting for it to break can cause other damage.

Deck Leveling

15 Pump – Check tire pressure and set it to 1bar/15psi. Some customers like a lower pressure, and that’s okay; what’s important is that they’re all the same.

16 Level – Decks tend to drop at the front over time. Place the mower on level ground.

Measure the height of the four corners of your cutting deck.

Measure – Let your deck down approx. halfway. Now measure the height of the four corners of your cutting deck.

Note the highest corner, and adjust all other corners up, so they match.

Adjust – You’ll find adjusters at each corner; they’ll have a lock nut that will need to be released first.

Turning these bolts adjusts the deck up and down. Spray with WD40 – makes life a little easier.

Clean Cut – Decks that sag will impact your lawn, causing damage to your blades and your lawn. Keep your deck level and blades sharp; you’ll be rewarded with a healthy lawn and a healthy mower.

Diesel Engine Difference

Some manufacturers offer small diesel engines in their mowers; the main advantages are fuel efficiency and lots of torque. Mostly they’re fitted to the commercial range. Diesel engines tend to be very reliable. However, they cost a lot more than a gas engine to repair when they fail.

Diesel Tune-Up

Service to a diesel engine will include oil; oil filter; fuel filter; air filter. Doing an oil and filter change is just as important on a diesel. Note, if you’re changing a fuel filter on a diesel engine, the air must be purged from the system before starting the engine.

Purging Diesel Fuel System

Fill the new filter with fresh diesel before fitting. Then pump the primer, if installed on the machine. If you don’t have a primer – open the fuel lines at the injectors by about two turns, and now crank over the engine until fuel spills from the fuel lines. Tighten up the lines, and your good to go. If your diesel still doesn’t start after purging, it must be purged again.

Related Questions

Should I run my lawnmower out of gas for winter? Using a gas stabilizer is better than running a mower out of gas. The stabilizer will keep gas fresh and protect the fuel system over the winter months. Running the gas out of the mower doesn’t prevent gumming of the carburetor.

Can you store a lawnmower vertically? A lawnmower should be stored on its wheels; however, if you drain the oil and gas from the engine you can store it in any position you like.

About the Author

John Cunningham is a Red Seal Qualified automotive technician with over twenty-five years experience working on all types of equipment, grass machinery, ATVs, Dirt bikes, cars, and trucks. When not writing how-to articles, he may be found in his happy place – Restoring classic machinery.

You may find the following links helpful:

Hey, I’m John, and I’m a Red Seal Qualified Service Technician with over twenty-five years experience.

I’ve worked on all types of mechanical equipment, from cars to grass machinery, and this site is where I share fluff-free hacks, tips, and insider know-how.

And the best part. it’s free!

Guide to Lawn Mower Safety and Maintenance

Before using a new lawn mower, it’s important to understand the basics of proper operation and maintenance. Doing so will keep everyone safe and help you get the most out of your investment.

Are Lawn Mowers Safe to Use?

Since millions of people use lawn mowers, it’s easy to have a false sense of security about them. Yes, lawn mowers are safe when you use and maintain them properly. However, gas-powered walk-behind mowers, which are the most common models, do present some hazards. According to the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission, more than 60,000 people are treated in emergency rooms every year after being injured while mowing the lawn. That why we recommend that you refresh your memory about important lawn mower safety protocols before starting yours up for the year.

Are Lawn Mowers Safe for Kids?

Since they are powerful machines used by adults, lawn mowers attract the interest of many kids. Given the significant safety hazards posed by these machines, however, children under 12 should not be permitted to operate them. Children under 16 should not be allowed to operate riding lawn mowers. Even when they are old enough, parents should ensure that kids follow all safety protocols while mowing the lawn.

Lawn Mower Safety Tips

Stay safe while whipping your yard into shape with the following lawn mower safety tips:

• Read the owner’s manual for the lawn mower you will use, including operating instructions and safety tips.
• Never allow children under 12 to operate any lawn mower. Children under 16 should not be permitted to use riding lawn mowers.
• Only mow the lawn during the day, and make sure the grass is dry.
• Wear protective gear to avoid mishaps while mowing the lawn, including fitted clothes, long pants, sturdy shoes, and gloves.
• Shield yourself from flying debris and loud noises with protective eyewear and earplugs.
• Before starting, walk through the yard removing sticks, pine cones, rocks, and other debris that could turn into hazardous projectiles while you mow.
• Also, before mowing, make sure that there are no children or pets in the area.
• Never disable any safety features on your lawn mower.
• Do not operate a lawn mower while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including prescription medications with warning labels about operating heavy machinery.
• Always shut off the lawn mower before doing things like adjusting the mower height, removing the grass catcher, clearing the grass chute, or performing other repairs.
• Never allow passengers on riding lawn mowers.
• Take extra care when operating a lawn mower on hills and inclines. When using a push mower, mow across the incline for optimal safety.
• Allow the engine to cool completely before adding more fuel. You can avoid this issue by checking the fuel and topping it off before getting started.
• Always turn off the engine on a riding lawn mower before getting off.
• Never insert your hands or feet into the mower to clear grass and other debris even if it is turned off. Instead, use a broom handle or stick.
• Never lift a lawn mower from the bottom.
• Always turn off the lawn mower before crossing sidewalks and driveways.
• While operating a lawn mower, always keep your gaze 3 to 4 feet ahead of you.
• Keep all four wheels of the mower down at all times; never tilt it.
• Do not pull the lawn mower toward you. Instead, if you miss a spot, go back and mow it again.
• Stay clear of the hot engine; the muffler can get as hot as 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit.

When Should I Take My Lawn Mower for Maintenance?

Ideally, you should tune up your lawn mower after every 25 hours of use or every three months, whichever comes first.

Most types of lawn mower maintenance are easy enough for the average owner to handle. However, some prefer leaving the work to the professionals. Many companies offer lawn mower maintenance packages that take the guesswork out of keeping your lawn mower in tip-top shape.

Here’s a maintenance to-do list for performing a tune-up of your lawn mower:

• Change the engine oil – Push mowers have 15 to 18 ounces of oil capacity. Change the oil every 50 hours or annually, whichever comes first. Riding mowers have a capacity of 48 to 64 ounces. Change the oil every 100 hours or annually, whichever comes first. Always follow instructions from the owner’s manual, including recommended oil type, when changing the oil. You can dispose of old oil at local municipal recycling centers and many auto shops.
• Change the spark plug – Swap out the spark plug on your mower to ensure that it keeps starting quickly.
• Replace or clean the air filter – Follow instructions from your owner’s manual to replace or clean the air filter.
• Clean the undercarriage – With the mower off and spark plugs removed, place it on its side. Use a brush to clear away caked-on old grass and other debris. Spray down the area with a hose, and allow it to dry.
• Add fuel stabilizer – It’s important to use fresh gasoline when mowing the lawn. Gas can start going bad within 30 days, so consider adding a fuel stabilizer to the tank to prolong its life and protect the engine.
• Check fasteners and wheels – Look over all fasteners and wheels, tightening hardware as needed to keep everything in good shape.
• Fog the engine – If you won’t be using the mower for an extended period, for instance, over the winter, drain all the gas and spray fogging oil into the carburetors and cylinders to protect them. Otherwise, lubricants in the engine will drain away, and water in the air can cause corrosion and other damage.
• Sharpen the blade – Dull blades can tear grass, leaving it susceptible to infection and damage from insects and the sun. If your mower has reel blades, it’s best to let professionals sharpen them. If it has a rotary blade, you may be able to sharpen it yourself using a grindstone, file, or bench grinder. Hold the blade at a 45-degree angle while sharpening it, and use goggles, gloves, and other safety equipment.

How Often Should I Replace My Lawn Mower Blade?

During regular tune-ups, examine your lawn mower blade. If there are cracks or other damage, sharpening it more won’t help; replace it instead. Otherwise, plan on replacing your lawn mower blade about once a year. It may last longer if you are conscientious about sharpening it regularly, so keep up with its routine maintenance to get as much use out of the blade as possible.

A Great Lawn Starts With a Well-Maintained Lawn Mower

To keep your yard looking terrific throughout the year, you should mow it regularly. Since mowing the lawn is a fact of life, it pays to take steps to keep your machine in good working order. Whether you take it to a repair shop or do the work yourself, regular tune-ups will let you squeeze as much use out of your lawn mower as possible, giving you the best bang for your buck. Knowing how to use it safely and effectively will prevent injuries and produce better results. True Value has everything you need to make the most of your lawn mower, so find a store near you to get started today.

How to Service a Lawn Mower

A lawn mower is an essential piece of equipment when caring for your lawn. Like all machinery, it may need service and maintenance in order to keep it running and in tip top shape. If you’re wondering how to service a lawn mower to make your machine last, I’ve got you covered.

While it may seem obvious that your lawn mower will need maintenance, the lawn mower is one of the least maintained pieces of machinery in most people’s homes and is one that takes most of the beating during peak seasons.

In this in-depth article I’ll explain how to service a lawn mower, covering just about every aspect of routine maintenance you need to know about.

So without delay, here are a few tips to ensure your lawn mower is in working shape when you need it:

Get to Know Your Lawn Mower

Knowing your lawn mower inside and out is a great way to ensure that you not only know how your lawn mower works, but that you know when your lawn mower isn’t working correctly.

I recommend that you read your lawn mowers owner’s manual before using it and before storing it for long periods of time. It also might be a good idea to brush up every couple of years by leafing through it at the beginning of a new season.

If you’re like me, you tend to forget things, especially things that aren’t on the top of your priority list. Reading your lawn mowers owner’s manual will ensure that you are able to take the best care of your lawn mower possible.

It’s a great first step to protect your investment.

Store Your Lawn Mower Properly

Taking good care of your lawn mower doesn’t stop when the mowing season stops. It is important to care for your lawn mower all year round, especially when it is going to sit for a long period of time, or when you first pull it out after it has been sitting.

When storing your lawn mower for long periods of time, be sure to drain the gasoline from the mower. Old gasoline in your lawn mower could cause it to not start when peak mowing season comes around.

It’s more expensive, but you can also buy gas that is ethanol-free. This type of gasoline you can leave in your machine year-round and you don’t have to worry about it going bad. For me, it’s worth the extra money (at least early in the spring and late in the fall).

If you forget to drain the gas our of your lawn mower, here are some tips for getting your mower started again when peak season comes around:

How to Drain Bad Gas From Your Mower

• Clean out your lawn mower’s gas tank. You can refer to your lawn mowers owner’s manual for instructions on how to get inside of your mowers fuel tank.
• Remove any remaining gas from your gas tank. Once the gasoline build up is gone, siphon all of the old gas into a container before adding new gas.
• Ensure that the spark plug is installed properly. Often, the spark plug in your lawn mower can come loose. After draining the old gas out of your lawn mower, be sure the spark plug wire is all the way in. This will give you the best chance at restarting your lawn mower.
• Add the new gas and start slow. After adding the new gasoline, start slow when starting your lawn mower. When the smell of gas becomes strong, stop. A strong smell of gas means that you have flooded your carburetor.

Check your Lawn Mower’s Oil

Oil in a lawn mower is essential for proper functioning, and if you want to learn how to service a lawn mower, learning to change your mower’s oil is the first step.

You should change the oil in your lawn mower once every other mowing season minimum (I recommend doing it once a year because it’s easy and inexpensive to do).

How to Change the Oil in Your Lawn Mower

• Drain all of the gasoline from your lawn mower (optional – I usually don’t do this, but some people recommend it)
• Disconnect the spark plug wire (good safety practice)
• Check to see if your lawn mower has an oil drain plug. Some lawn mowers, especially larger ones and riding mowers will have an oil drain plug. Smaller walk-behind lawn mowers generally do not have an oil drain plug.

• If your lawn mower has an oil drain plug, pull the plug and drain the oil into a pan or container like you would with a car.
• If your lawn mower does not have an oil drain plug, tip your lawn mower on its side, being sure to keep the carburetor on the raised side, and drain all of the oil out of the mower. In a push mower this is usually done right through the hole where the dipstick is where you add oil. They’re almost always built with the carb on the other side.

Clean the Mower’s Undercarriage

One common lawn mower maintenance item that is often overlooked is cleaning out the undercarriage.

Grass, especially if you mowed wet grass, can get caked to the underside of your lawn mower and clog up your lawn mower’s discharge chute.

It can also rust your mower deck and your blades.

Cleaning the undercarriage of your lawn mower is easier if you have a smaller, push mower. If you have a larger, riding mower, I recommend seeking professional help.

For smaller, push mowers, unplug the spark plug wire and tip your mower on its side. Using a wire brush, scrape the grass clippings and dirt off the undercarriage. Be careful not to scratch the painted finish much because that’ll result in easy spots for rust to develop.

Once the majority of the buildup has been scraped off, use a hose to spray the remaining debris off the undercarriage of your lawn mower and let it dry.

Your Lawn Mower Needs Clean Air

Your lawn mower’s air filter picks up a lot of dirt and dust, especially if you live in a dry, dusty climate or your lawn has bare spots.

It is important to clean the air filter in your lawn mower, just like it is important to clean the air filter in your car. A dirty air filter will put more stress on your lawn mower and waste gas.

I clean mine by removing it, shaking it gently and then blowing on each side to remove any larger dust particles before each use.

I also replace my air filter annually. It’s easy to do and inexpensive and when you’re first learning how to service a lawn mower, this is one maintenance step that is easy to master.

I recommend that you replace the air filter in your mower once a year to ensure optimal performance. It’s usually wise to buy a couple when you go to the store so if you notice it’s dirty during lawn maintenance season, you have one handy to save you a trip to the store.

Spark Plug Replacement: A Satisfying Part of Servicing a Lawn Mower

Another thing that you should change annually is your spark plug. Spark plugs ensure that your lawn mower will start up easily.

Here are some tips to change your spark plug:

How to Change a Lawn Mower Spark Plug

• Unplug the spark plug wire.
• Remove the old spark plug with a spark plug wrench or socket. Most people don’t have a socket long enough for this task in their set, so you might need to buy a new one. Your mower’s manual will tell you what size to buy.
• Place the new plug into the socket, ensuring that you do not tighten it down too much. Overtightening your spark plug could prevent your lawn mower from starting. You want it just beyond finger tight.

Sharpen Your Lawn Mower Blades

Let’s face it … other than that guy or gal across the street nobody has a perfect lawn (every neighborhood has that neighbor).

Because nobody’s yards are perfect and most are filled with rocks, roots, sticks, and other hard, blunt objects, your mower’s blades can take a beating. They endure a lot of stress, especially during peak mowing season.

It is important to keep your mower’s blades sharp.

Dull lawn mower blades rip and tear the grass instead of cutting it, causing damage to your mower and to your lawn. Learning to sharpen your lawn mower blades will make a huge difference in your lawn’s performance.

Plus it’s super satisfying to learn and do. It was one of my favorite steps when first learning how to service a lawn mower.

If you are not handy, I recommend hiring a professional to help sharpen your lawn mower blades.

Some people use a metal file to sharpen their lawn mower’s blades and others use an angle grinder. Doing this improperly can be dangerous. You could damage your mower, so gauge for yourself whether or not this is for you.

I found it pretty easy to master and I find it relaxing and fun. But I also have a blog about lawn care, so I may not be speaking for the masses.

How to Service a Lawn Mower: Explained

Regular maintenance routines on your lawn mower vary. What you need to do to regularly service your mower will depend upon:

• the size of your mower,
• how often you use it, and
• the size and condition of your property.

Here is a summary of the basic service you should perform on your lawn mower:

Recommended Lawn Mower Service Items

• Understand how your lawn mower works and know how to tell when it is broken. By reading your owner’s manual you can know when your lawn mower is working properly. You can also know how it is supposed to feel and sound, so when it is not working properly, you can pinpoint the problem. Most manuals have a page dedicated to common problems and how to fix them.
• Don’t just abandon your mower after the final use of the year and let it sit during non-mowing seasons. Your lawn mower needs attention even when you are not mowing. Before you leave your lawnmower in the back of your garage for the winter be sure to drain all of the gasoline. Disposal is easy – just dump it into your car’s gas tank. This will save you some headaches when it is time to pull the mower out again and use it.

• If you forget to drain your lawn mower of gasoline, don’t fret, use the tips in this article to get your lawn mower back up and running after a winter with old gasoline.
• If you use TruFuel or another ethanol-free gas, you don’t need to drain your tank. You can also treat your gas to winterize it, but many people do this incorrectly, so I don’t recommend it.

The Satisfaction of Caring For Your Lawn Mower

Servicing your lawn mower is important if you want to keep it running well. I’m a huge advocate for DIY, but if it seems overwhelming hire a professional to service your machine annually.

Protect your investment and take care of your lawn mower following these simple service tips. Your mower will remain in tip-top shape for years.

How to service and maintain a Lawn Mower, a step by step guide

Regular maintenance and servicing of your lawnmower is a must if you want to have a healthy and well cared for lawn.

Cutting the grass correctly is one of the most important gardening jobs you can do and with a well-maintained lawn mower to help keep your lawn looking neat, tidy, and healthy, you can really set your property off well.

Regularly maintain and service your lawn mower by cleaning off any old grass and mulch, remove and sharpen the blades then treat them with a coat of light oil. Lawnmowers with petrol motors will need the oil and air filters changed, electric mowers need the power cables checked for any damage.

A well looked after lawnmower will really help by keeping your lawns in good order and make a world of difference to the look and feel of your property, I mean who wants to see an overgrown mess with weeds everywhere? A well-kept lawn will look good and also add to the value of our property.

So here are our top tips for lawnmower maintenance that you can do yourself to keep your tools in the best order and make them last for years.

Checks to do before mowing your lawn

Before you cut the grass with your lawnmower there are a few simple maintenance checks you should carry out to ensure you get the best from your lawnmower.

Generally larger petrol mowers need a little more maintenance than electric lawnmowers, however, both types need to be looked after in order for them to give you the best.

Before you work on any power tools including a lawnmower ensure it is safe to do so.

For petrol, mowers turn off the fuel tap and remove the spark plug cap to ensure it cannot start, unplug electric mowers from their power source.

Remove batteries from cordless units and ensure anyone nearby knows you are working on the lawnmower and not to touch it.

Always check the manufacturer’s handbook for details about your specific lawnmower.

Maintaining an Electric mower

Electric lawnmowers need less work than petrol versions however they still have to be well maintained in order to give you the best performance. The following checks will help keep your lawn mower working at its best.

• You will need to check the blades are sharp and oiled. Dull blades will not give a good clean cut, damage from stones and other debris will mean the mower will not perform as its best. Keeping the blades sharp will get the best results.
• Ensure the grass box and lawnmower body are clean and free from old cuttings or earth. Keeping the mower clean will help cut the grass and give the mower a long working life.
• Check that cables are in good order, look for any nicks or splits in the cables and repair or replace any that are damaged, remember electricity can be very dangerous.
• Cordless lawnmowers should also be fully charged before use. If you intend to cut a lot of grass, having spare batteries is always handy so you can use one whilst the other is charging.

Checks for after you have cut the lawn

Once you have cut your lawns and they are looking great, it’s a good idea to look after your lawnmower, this will mean it’s ready for next time and rather than just shove it to the back of the shed, take 5 minutes to clean and check it over.

Following these steps won’t take long and will ensure your lawnmower is ready next time

• Ensure all power sources are disconnected, remove the plug of electric units and collect the cable, shut off the fuel supply on petrol mowers, and remove the batteries from cordless mowers.
• Wipe down the blades and clean off all clippings and caked-on earth, use a stiff brush to get to the corners, and clean the grass box out well.
• Clear out the canopy of rotary mowers and wipe down the exposed parts to dry them, on bare metal parts like the blades, use an oily rag to prevent corrosion.
• Check the blade assembly and look for loose or damaged blades as these will reduce the cutting efficiency of the mower and could be dangerous if not repaired.

in-depth Monthly Checks

About once a month during the cutting season which is typically late spring to late Autumn, checking your lawnmower thoroughly is a good idea and means you can avoid any major issues.

You should consult your manufacturer’s handbook as they will have a guide on how to maintain your machine, typically all the points covered in the previous section with the addition of the steps below will give you a comprehensive monthly check.

• Check all the bolts and fixings are tight. Some mowers use left-handed threads on blade fixings, turning them the wrong way may loosen them.

• On Cylinder mowers check the cutter bar is cleaned, sharp and free from damage, usually a quick clean up with a file will give the bar its cutting edge back, however, units that are too badly damaged should be replaced.

• Check the blade the assembly on cylinder Cylinder mowers. These need to turn smoothly and be properly balanced, hitting stones can put them out. Unless you have the right equipment this may be best done at a dealers or lawn mower repair shop.
• Check the cutting gap between the blades and the cutting bar, this should be adjusted to give a clean precise cut, using a piece of writing paper between one of the blades and the cutting bar. The paper should be cut cleanly all the way across the blades, if this is not the case adjust the gap using the lawnmower blade adjustment screws (check your lawnmowers manual for details)

• Check that batteries are holding a charge and there is no damage to the casings or connectors

• Make sure any moving or rotating parts like the blades or rollers are oiled at the bearing faces. Clean out any dirt or dried grass.
• Any chain drives should be checked to ensure the correct tension and chains greased to keep them in the best condition.
• Check and clean out the air filter, you can use a vacuum cleaner to help but be careful they can be delicate, and if the filter is worn or damaged replace it with a new one.
• Petrol mowers should have oil levels checked regularly, top up with the grade of oil recommended by the manufacturer.

• Check for any leaks and if the oil appears very dark or black it should be changed for fresh.

• Spark plugs should be inspected and cleaned with a wire brush, you can tell a lot from the colour of the spark plug. Check out this spark plug guide to see how your motor is performing.
• For electric mowers regularly check the cables are in good order and the plugs are secure. If there is any damage to cables, this should be repaired with a waterproof connector, simply using insulating tape is not good enough and should be avoided.

Yearly maintenance, giving your lawnmower a full service

Once a year treat your lawnmower to full service, give a complete overhaul to ensure it lasts you as long as possible.

For electric lawnmowers, this means carrying out all of the steps for weekly and monthly servicing with the addition of the following steps

• Check and adjust rollers and wheels, give all the rolling parts a good clean with a stiff brush then add a drop of lubricant to any bearing surfaces.
• Clean and check the height adjustment, make sure springs are tight, and replace and items that are worn.
• Fully clean the lawnmower body and grass collector, remove any dirt and debris, use a stiff brush and scraper to clean off old grass and mulch.

Petrol mowers should be fully serviced as per the electric units with the addition of the following steps:

• Change the spark plug, remove the old spark plug, and fit a fresh new one, double-check the gap is set correctly to ensure the motor runs properly.
• Change the air filter, replacing this regularly will ensure proper fuel mixture allowing the motor to perform at its best

To find out how to change the oil and spark plug on a petrol lawnmower read our engine servicing post for an in-depth guide.

Can you clean a lawnmower with a hosepipe or pressure washer?

It is not a good idea to use a garden hose or pressure washer on a lawnmower, water will get into all sorts of places that it shouldn’t, like the electrics or fuel which will cause the motor to fail.

Bearings may get water inside them causing rust and corrosion and they can be difficult to replace.

It’s better to use a stiff dry brush to remove any old grass, stubborn clumps can be removed with a hard scraper.

Then use a damp sponge or rag to wipe down any excess dirt, once clean use a dry cloth to remove any moisture, and wipe down bare metal parts with an oily rag to help prevent corrosion.

Where to store your lawnmower?

Keeping your lawnmower stored safely is essential, it should be kept covered and away from water, ideally in an outhouse, garage, or shed where rain and frost cannot reach it.

Try to avoid damp spaces and keep the lawnmower off bare earth or concrete, use a wooden base or put down a hardboard layer to prevent the spread of damp.

It’s also a good idea to secure your lawnmower to something solid like a floor hasp or a ‘shed Shackle’ with a good quality chain and lock to prevent thieves from helping themselves.

Your lawnmower is going to be one of the most expensive tools you own and keeping is safe should be a priority.

To find out more about keeping your tools safe take a look at our top home security tips for more great and easy ways to protect your tools and improve your properties defense against intruders.

How to store your lawnmower for Winter

For long term storage during winter months your lawnmower can be put away until required in the spring, following the guide above there are few additional things to do,

Winter storage of Electric lawnmowers

Electric lawnmowers are easier to care for but should be treated with the same levels of care as petrol versions

Cordless lawnmowers

As with Petrol and corded lawnmowers, cordless lawnmowers need to be cleaned, oiled, and protected ready for winter.

Batteries should be recharged and stored in a warm dry place and if possible kept on a ‘trickle charge’ to help maintain the battery’s lifespan.

Remember, always check the manufacturer’s manual or handbook for full details of how to care for your particular lawnmower.

Lawn Mower Repair: 11 Common Problems And How To Fix Them

Lawn mower repair knowledge is a must-have for DIYers who want to maintain a pristine-looking garden. If you own a lawnmower, here are 11 common problems you’ll most likely encounter and the corresponding checkup tips you need to fix them.

Lawn Mower Repair | How to Fix a Lawn Mower and Its 11 Most Common Issues

Lawn Mower That Won’t Start

If your lawnmower won’t start, there are a couple of things that you should check out:

• Fuel: Your lawn mower will not run on an empty tank. Similarly, if the fuel is older than 30 days, get rid of it before cleaning the carburetor.
• Gas tank: Inspect the gas tank for any leaks. Seal any leaks you find if you can, but otherwise, replacements are usually available online in various lawn mower repair websites.
• Battery: Just like cars, lawnmowers rely on batteries to run. At some point, their batteries will give in to wear and tear and need replacing as they lose the capacity to hold or carry a charge.
• Air filters: Dirty air filters full of dust and dirt can also restrict airflow and prevent your lawnmower from starting. If the air filter is dirty, simply remove it and get rid of all that built-up debris. If it’s too damaged, then it might be better to just replace it altogether.
• Spark plugs: Loose, dirty, or disconnected spark plugs may be keeping your mower from running. Make sure your spark plugs are tight, clean, and connected securely before you try starting your machine. Change old and defective ones as spark plugs are prone to wear and tear.

Lawn Mower That Won’t Turn off Unless the Spark Plug Is Disconnected

A lawnmower that won’t start is a headache, but one that won’t turn off can be just as problematic. Two culprits are often responsible for this problem.

First, the “kill” or ground wire, which may have been disconnected. Second, the ignition switch connections, which may no longer be working due to wear and tear.

Start by checking your ground wire. Make sure it is intact and connected to the area it “grounds” to.

If your ground wire is fine, move to your ignition switch and use an ohmmeter to check if the connection between the “B” and “S” terminals are active. If it’s not, replace your ignition switch and your lawnmower should work smoothly afterward.

Lawn Mower That Consumes Too Much Gas

Lawnmowers are not supposed to consume gas like a thirsty runner who just ran a full marathon without having a bottle of water. If yours does, a clogged air filter is typically your number one suspect.

This causes your mower’s engine to work overtime, forcing it to consume more gas to perform its normal capacity. To fix this, just clean your air filter thoroughly or replace it if it’s over a year old already.

Starter Rope That Is Either Stuck or Too Hard to Pull

An engaged flywheel brake is often the reason behind this simple problem. Before you pull the starter rope, make sure the flywheel brake is completely disengaged and doesn’t press against your mower’s handle.

If that isn’t causing the problem, check the blades. They might be touching the ground or grass might be clogging them, which blocks the startup process.

To fix this, just lay your mower down on a flat surface, disengage your spark plug, rid the blades of any dirt or grass cuttings, then try again.

Lawnmower That Overheats

When you feel that your lawnmower typically becomes too hot while mowing, don’t ignore it just because it’s still functional. Continuously using it in this condition may worsen the problem unnecessarily.

Start your lawn mower repair by checking the exhaust for any buildup of grass. The cooling fins are part of the head of your lawnmower engine cylinder. This tends to overheat when it gets clogged, so get rid of any grass, leaves, and other debris that may have found their way into your engine’s cooling fins.

Smoke Rising From the Lawnmower

While this is one of the most common lawnmower issues people face, surprisingly, no one knows exactly how to fix a smoking lawn mower. And no, DIYers, it’s not a sign that your lawnmower is about to explode.

Typically, an overfilled or leaking oil chamber causes this. Oil leaking into your lawnmower’s muffler can cause the engine to smoke as it burns the oil.

In such cases, simply turn off the engine and wait for it to cool before checking the chamber for leaks. Make sure the cap is sealed tight as well before you restart your lawnmower.

Rarely does a smoking lawnmower signal a serious problem. However, if it already affects the performance of your mower, then it is best to consult a lawn mower repair professional.

Lawn Mower With Reduced Speeds

A damaged or dislocated drive belt might be the reason behind your mower’s slow speeds. This drive belt is typically found in the motor casing, though it is best to consult the manual if you’re not sure how to access it.

To fix this, turn your mower off before inspecting the drive belt. Reattach it if it’s only loose or replace it altogether if there is too much damage.

Lawnmower That Fails to Cut Grass

Ironically, grass that’s either too long or too wet causes a lawnmower’s failure to cut grass.

First, keep in mind that you should only do mowing during dry conditions. It’s never a good idea to cut wet grass as this can clog your mower.

Second, the grass might be too long for your lawn mower’s setting. Raise the deck’s height above its standard settings before you begin cutting overgrown grass.

Additionally, try to mow at a slower pace when cutting taller and longer grass. Make sure to get rid of grass, leaves, and other debris that may accumulate under the deck as you mow to allow your mower to function at full capacity.

Lawnmower With Uneven Mowing

Uneven mowing is often caused by one of two things:

• Dull blades: For your mower to function well, the blades underneath have to be equally sharp. You can either sharpen the blades using a metallic file, bring them to your local lawn mower repair shop, or replace the blades altogether if they are too worn.
• Unbalanced buildup: Grass, leaves, and other debris might have built up on one side of your mower. Clean these out and empty as necessary.

Bumpy or Bouncy Mower

Inadequate oil is one of the most common causes of mowers that seem bouncy or bumpy while running. Check your oil levels and make sure to change it every once in a while for a smoother ride and a better performance.

Excessively Vibrating Mower

Damaged drive belts can cause lawnmowers to vibrate unusually and excessively. Make sure to have it installed properly and keep it in good shape. Worn out or damaged drive belts may need replacement if simple repairs can’t answer your problems.

Other factors that can cause this problem may include loose mounting bolts, an engine running below the advised RPM, or a cutting deck that isn’t in the right settings.

Pro tip: As much as possible, avoid running your lawnmower over hard objects like rocks and roots. These can damage different parts of your lawnmower, which might cause them to need repairs or even replacements.

Avoid lawn mower repair altogether by following this lawn mower maintenance tutorial by This Old House:

A well-managed lawn is the hallmark of any DIYer’s home. Learning these common issues and lawn mower repair tips for each of them should help make sure that your mower is always in tip-top shape.

Do you have other questions about lawn mower repair or maintenance? Ask us in the Комментарии и мнения владельцев section below!

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Комментарии и мнения владельцев

Got paint spilt on fly mower and is very noisy and rattly,can it be easily fixed or should I buy new?

I have a question Where are the Drive belts in a mower? You mentioned Battery has lawn mower got the battery? Where are the flywheel breaks? I have been mowing and after sometime it just switched off and does not start. I checked petrol. It is enough, I checked oil it look low but when I top up it went over the H mark. I reduced it but the mower still does not start. I replaced air filter that was old. But no starting. The gap of flywheel and Ignition coil looks ok. What can I try further.?