Author: ulok-editor
When it comes to storing your lawn mower for the winter, people have different approaches. Some go through a detailed process, while others just leave their mowers outside and hope for the best. The most important thing to focus on is the fuel system. Properly handling the fuel can prevent many problems when spring arrives.
But don’t stop there. Preparing your lawn mower for winter can save you from having to fix a broken mower or buy a new one every season. This is especially important if you have an expensive riding mower. Following these storage steps can help maintain and extend the life of your lawn mower.
Drain Gas or Add Fuel Stabilizer
There are two ways to handle the fuel when storing your mower. You can either remove the gas completely or add a fuel stabilizer. Just leaving fuel in the tank without doing anything can cause it to degrade and damage the carburetor and fuel tank.
- Removing Gas: Run the mower until it stops to use up the fuel. Siphon out any remaining fuel with a turkey baster.
- Adding Fuel Stabilizer: Fill the tank, add the stabilizer, and run the mower for a few minutes to mix it well.
Prevent Accidental Starts
Remove the Spark Plug: This prevents the mower from starting accidentally while you clean and prep it for storage.
Change the Oil
- Drain or Change Oil: Changing the oil at the end of the season prevents engine corrosion.
- For Two-Cylinder Motors: Drain both oil and fuel together.
- For Four-Cylinder Motors: Warm up the engine, drain the oil, and replace it with new oil according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Clean the Deck and Undercarriage
- Wash Thoroughly: Use a garden hose or low-pressure washer to clean the deck. Remove any dried grass with a wire brush or putty knife. Wear gloves to protect your hands.
Remove and Sharpen the Blade
- Sharpen Evenly: Lean the mower on its side, remove the blade, and sharpen it evenly using a file. Mark the blade to ensure you reinstall it correctly.
Replace Spark Plug and Air Filter
- Install New Parts: Remove the old spark plug and air filter. Install new ones or clean reusable filters. Lubricate any exposed components.
Cover Your Mower
- Protect with a Cover: Use a lawn mower cover or a tarp to protect your mower from dust and moisture.
Extra Tips:
- Always refer to your mower’s owner manual for specific instructions.
- For additional storage needs, consider renting a storage unit. A 5’x10’ unit is typically sufficient for most lawn mowers. You can also use our space calculator to find a storage unit size best for you!
- By following these steps, your lawn mower will be ready to go when the next mowing season starts. For safe and convenient storage, contact Downtown U-Lok near you!
Storing your motorcycle for the winter is important. Here’s a simple guide to keep your bike in good shape when you can’t ride it.
Steps for Winter Motorcycle Storage
Clean Your Bike
Wash and dry your bike well to remove dirt and bugs. This makes it easier to clean in the spring.
Lubricate Moving Parts
Oil all moving parts, like the chain and cables, to keep them from rusting. For long storage, put a bit of oil in the spark plug holes and turn the engine to coat the inside.
Fill the Fuel Tank and Add Stabilizer
Fill your tank to the top and add a fuel stabilizer. Take a short ride to mix it well. If storing for over six months, you can empty the tank and coat it with oil to prevent rust.
Change the Oil
After your final ride, change the oil and filter. Use oil meant for winter and add antifreeze to the coolant.
Remove and Charge the Battery
Take out the battery and store it in a stable-temperature place, or keep it in the bike and run the engine monthly. Use a trickle charger to keep it charged.
Prevent Tire Flat Spots
Lift the bike with stands to take weight off the tires. If stands aren’t available, fill the tires to maximum PSI and rotate them occasionally.
Block Openings
Cover the air intake and exhaust pipes to keep pests out. Use muffler plugs or plastic bags but remember to remove them before riding.
Wax and Cover Your Bike
Wax the bike to protect from moisture. Spray metal parts with WD-40. Use a fitted motorcycle cover to shield it from dust and scratches.
Choose a Good Storage Spot
Store your bike in a dry place, out of the weather. If storing at home isn’t an option, rent a storage unit. At Downtown U-Lok, we offer car and motorcycle storage. If you have any questions about car and motorcycle storage, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help!