Maintaining your lawnmower will ensure that it runs smoothly for a long time. This is not only beneficial for how well you are doing your job, but also in terms of safety and health. When parts are worn or deteriorated they can cause serious injury to you if they break when in use. The following guide will teach you how to maintain your lawnmower.
Height Adjustment
Keeping your lawnmower at the right blade height is important for several reasons. The lawn mowing deck sits close to the ground, so if you cut high grass with it set too low, not only can the lawnmower clog easily but stones and sticks can damage the bottom of the deck quickly. Also, when the blades are set too high, lawn grasses can develop a coarse texture which results in an unattractive lawn.
Even if you’re cutting your lawn only every week or two in the summer, you should try to remember to check and adjust your lawnmower blades at least once per month. And make sure it is high before starting up the lawnmower. When changing its blade height, you should always be sure to position a wooden block or a rock under each side of the deck. If you are making this adjustment on a riding lawnmower, make sure that it is parked on a level surface and the lawnmower parking brake is engaged.
Change Oil Frequently
The engine is designed to efficiently use oil for cooling and lubrication. You need to realize the importance of changing the lawn mower oils regularly. For it to perform at an optimal level, the oil needs to be changed around every 25 hours of use or once a year. When you notice that the lawnmower is not working as smoothly as usual, check to see if it needs an oil change. Look at the dipstick on it carefully and see if it is time for a change. If there are no signs of rust or any dark sediment, then the lawnmower still has some oil in it.
If ever your lawnmower needs a change, make sure that you drain the oil completely before filling it up again with a fresh one. Also, ensure to check its air filter as well when changing the oil. Make sure that it is cleaned and dried to ensure the proper airflow in the machine for its efficient function.
Clean Air Filter
One of the most common reasons why lawnmowers malfunction is due to clogged air filters. If there are too many particles that get into the engine, then you cannot expect it to work as perfectly as it should. It is supposed to have clean air that can be utilized in order to get rid of the hot exhaust gas. If ever an air filter looks dirty, it is time for you to clean it. There are specific cleaners available in the market that are designed for this purpose. It is best if you will use these cleaners to make sure that the air filter is safe for use.
If you are not proficient with the cleaner, then it is best if you will take it to your local lawnmower service center. They have professionals who can clean it properly for you so that it will get back to its original state in no time at all.
Get In Tune With Your Machine’s Every Move And Function
Never take the lawnmower for granted when you notice that it is not working smoothly anymore. It does not mean that it will keep on going even if it has poor performance already. Make sure to check the entire engine and find out what is wrong with it right away to prevent further damage.
When you bought a lawnmower, ensure that you have also purchased the necessary tools and equipment so that you will know how to fix it up if ever something is wrong with it. Its manufacturer’s guidebook should be able to give instructions on what tools are needed for repair so make sure to read that thoroughly.
It does not matter if you will do the repairs yourself or have it done by a professional lawnmower service center. What is important is that the problem has been addressed as soon as possible to avoid further damage and wastage of resources.
Spark Plug Maintenance for Lawn Mowers
Maintaining your lawnmower’s spark plug is incredibly important to the longevity of your mower. Spark plugs are responsible for igniting the fuel that powers the engine. Over time, fire will burn away just about everything but without new fuel constantly being added, you’re eventually faced with a depleted engine. When this happens, it’s time for a new mower. Properly maintain your lawnmower spark plug, however, you can slow down this process significantly. A couple of seconds spent every week are more than enough to ensure years of service from your lawnmower.
If you follow these steps on how to properly maintain your lawnmower, then there’s no doubt that it will be able to work efficiently for many years to come. Just remember that one of the most important things that you need to do is change its oil at least once a year. This way, you can be sure that you are using a fresh batch of oil each time. The lawnmower itself will surely last for many years without major problems if only the right measures are taken to maintain it.