We showed how to get your lawn mower up and running for spring. Basic mower maintenance includes checking the spark plug, cutting blades and the oil.
Our Tips:
• Keep the mower blades sharp. The blades may need to be replaced if they are worn or rusty. If they are difficult to remove, take the mower to a certified repairer. (Note: always remove the spark plug before working with mower blades, so there is no chance the engine could somehow start.)
• Change the spark plug. Buy two spark plugs at a time, and when you go to the store, take the old spark plug with you to make sure you buy suitable replacements. Sometimes the serial numbers can change, particularly across different manufacturers.
• Check the filters, and clean or replace as necessary.
• If you have a 4-stroke, change the oil. If you have a 2-stroke make sure you use the correct fuel/oil mixture, as recommended by the manufacturer of your mower. (We recommend a 4-stroke, because they’re less noisy and they don’t blow as much smoke.)
• When mowing the lawn, always wear protective clothing, such as sturdy boots and earmuffs.
• Fuel left sitting in the mower for long periods can go stale. It is a good idea to drain the tank before you put the mower away for winter. Also clean the mower and spray with WD40 before storing.
Further information
Lawn mower spark plugs cost approx. $4 each.
WD40 costs around $4 from hardware stores.