8 Maintenance Tips Keep Your Lawn Mower Running

8 Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Lawn Mower Running

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Introduction

1. Did you know that a well-maintained lawn mower can last up to 15 years? That's over a decade of lush, perfectly manicured lawns without the headache of frequent replacements.

2. But let's face it, neglecting your lawn mower is a surefire way to shorten its lifespan. Who wants unexpected breakdowns right when their lawn looks like a mini jungle?

3. Fortunately, keeping your lawn mower in top shape isn't rocket science. With these 8 maintenance tips, you'll ensure your mower runs smoothly all season long.

4. In this guide, you'll learn essential tips ranging from spark plug replacements to blade sharpening, ensuring your mower is always ready for action.

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Tip #1: Replace the Spark Plug

Why It Matters The spark plug is the heart of your mower's ignition system. A faulty spark plug can cause the engine to misfire or not start at all.

How to Do It - Disconnect the spark plug wire.

• Use a socket wrench to remove the old spark plug.

• Install a new spark plug, ensuring it's properly gapped.

• Reconnect the spark plug wire.

Pro Tip Replace the spark plug at the start of each mowing season to prevent unexpected engine issues.

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Tip #2: Change the Oil

Why It Matters Just like in a car, oil lubricates the moving parts of the mower's engine, preventing wear and overheating.

How to Do It - Run the engine for a few minutes to warm up the oil.

• Turn off the mower and disconnect the spark plug.

• Use an oil extractor or tilt the mower to drain the old oil.

• Refill with the recommended oil type (usually SAE 30 for most mowers).

Pro Tip Change the oil after every 25 hours of use or at the start of each season.

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Tip #3: Clean or Replace the Air Filter

Why It Matters A clean air filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine, ensuring efficient fuel combustion.

How to Do It - Remove the air filter cover.

• If it's a foam filter, wash it with soapy water and let it dry. If it's paper, replace it with a new one.

• Reinstall the filter and secure the cover.

Pro Tip Regularly check and clean the air filter, especially during dusty conditions.

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Tip #4: Sharpen and Balance the Blades

Why It Matters Sharp blades make clean cuts, promoting healthier grass. Blunt blades tear grass, making it susceptible to disease.

How to Do It - Disconnect the spark plug.

• Remove the blade using a wrench.

• Sharpen the blade with a file or a grinder, maintaining the angle of the cutting edge.

• Balance the blade by supporting it on a nail; it should remain level.

Pro Tip Sharpen blades twice a season or after every 25 hours of use.

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Tip #5: Check the Tires

Why It Matters Properly inflated tires ensure even cutting and reduce strain on the engine.

How to Do It - Inspect the tires for wear and tear.

• Use a pressure gauge to check and inflate tires to the recommended pressure.

Pro Tip Check tire pressure before each use to maintain optimal performance.

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Tip #6: Clean the Mowing Deck

Why It Matters Grass clippings and debris can accumulate under the deck, causing rust and affecting performance.

How to Do It - Disconnect the spark plug.

• Tilt the mower to expose the underside.

• Use a brush or a scraper to remove debris.

• Rinse with water and let it dry completely.

Pro Tip Cleaning after each mowing session makes the job easier and prevents buildup.

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Tip #7: Check the Fuel System

Why It Matters Old or contaminated fuel can clog the carburetor and fuel lines, impacting performance.

How to Do It - Drain any old fuel at the end of the season.

• Use fresh fuel with a stabilizer when storing the mower for an extended period.

Pro Tip Use ethanol-free fuel if possible to prevent corrosion.

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Tip #8: Inspect the Battery and Cables

Why It Matters For electric and battery-powered mowers, ensuring the battery is in good condition is crucial for performance.

How to Do It - Check battery terminals for corrosion.

• Clean terminals with a wire brush.

• Ensure cables are secure and intact.

Pro Tip Charge the battery fully before storing the mower for the winter.

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Tips and Reminders

• Routine Checks Make it a habit to inspect your mower before each use.

• Storage Store the mower in a dry, sheltered place during off-seasons.

• Professional Maintenance Consider a professional tune-up annually for peace of mind.

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Conclusion

Maintaining your lawn mower might seem like a chore, but the payoff is a reliable machine that keeps your lawn looking its best. Ready to elevate your lawn care game?

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