When the weather starts cooling down, the equipment you use for yard work changes from mowers to rakes. This checklist will show you how to store your gas mower for fall and winter safely, so it’ll be in good shape when you need it next spring.
Before you start the process, disconnect the spark plug so the mower can’t accidentally start. Next, take care of each of these parts of your mower:
- Empty the gas tank. This is the most important thing since gas that is left sitting for months can cause damage to the rubber and plastic parts of your mower.
- Clean the undercarriage. You’ll need to remove the blade to do so. Wear heavy gardening or work gloves to protect your hands. Use a wire brush and putty knife to scrape off dried grass, dirt, and other debris.
- Change the oil, if necessary (4-cycle engine). Reattach the mower blade. You can choose to either sharpen the blade before reattaching or sharpen it in spring when you’re getting ready to use your mower again.
- Replace your air filter and clean the cooling fins.
If you’re not sure how to safely remove any of these parts, or where they are on your mower, Google your mower’s instruction manual so you can reference it. For photo illustrations of each step, hit the link below.
How to Store Your Lawn Mower for the Cold Season | This Old House
Image from yutakaseki.
via Lifehacker
This Checklist Explains How to Properly Store Your Gas Mower for Winter