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!