The crisp air and falling leaves signal the end of another lawn mowing season. But before you tuck your Honda lawn mower away for winter, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Proper storage ensures your mower starts easily next spring and lasts for years to come. This comprehensive guide covers everything from cleaning and maintenance to the best storage options, ensuring your Honda lawn mower is ready for its winter slumber.
A Brief Overview of Storing Your Honda Lawn Mower for Winter
Storing your Honda lawn mower for winter involves a series of steps designed to protect it from the elements and prevent damage. This includes cleaning the mower thoroughly, changing the oil and spark plug, and properly storing it in a dry location. By following these steps, you ensure your mower remains in top condition, ready to tackle your lawn come springtime.
Preparing Your Honda Lawn Mower for Storage
1. Clean Your Mower Thoroughly
A clean mower is a happy mower! Before storage, give your Honda lawn mower a good scrub down.
a. Remove Grass Clippings and Debris
Start by removing all grass clippings and debris from the mower deck, engine, and chassis. Use a brush, scraper, or compressed air to remove any stubborn dirt or grime.
b. Wash the Mower Deck
Wash the mower deck thoroughly with soap and water, paying special attention to the underside where grass accumulates. Let it dry completely before moving on.
c. Clean the Engine
Use a soft cloth to clean the engine, paying particular attention to the air filter, spark plug, and carburetor. Avoid using high-pressure water on the engine, as it can damage delicate parts.
2. Perform Basic Maintenance
After cleaning, give your Honda lawn mower some basic maintenance to ensure it’s ready for its winter rest.
a. Change the Oil
Changing the oil is crucial before storage. Drain the old oil and replace it with fresh oil appropriate for your mower’s engine. Consult your owner’s manual for specific recommendations on oil type and quantity.
b. Replace the Spark Plug
A new spark plug helps ensure your mower starts easily next spring. Replace the old spark plug with a new one of the correct type. Refer to your owner’s manual for the correct spark plug type.
c. Check the Air Filter
Inspect the air filter and replace it if it’s dirty or damaged. A clean air filter ensures optimal engine performance.
d. Sharp Blades
Before storage, sharpen the blades using a file or a sharpening tool. Sharp blades cut grass cleanly and efficiently, leading to a healthier lawn.
e. Fuel System
Empty the fuel tank to prevent fuel from going stale and clogging the carburetor. You can use a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel deterioration, but it’s best to remove the fuel from the tank for long-term storage.
3. Prepare for Storage
Once the cleaning and maintenance are complete, you can prepare your Honda lawn mower for storage.
a. Stabilize the Fuel
If you decide to use a fuel stabilizer, follow the instructions on the stabilizer bottle. Add the stabilizer to the fuel tank and run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the stabilized fuel.
b. Disconnect the Battery (if applicable)
For mowers with batteries, disconnect the battery terminals to prevent the battery from draining during storage. Store the battery in a cool, dry place.
4. Choose the Right Storage Location
Selecting the right storage location is crucial for protecting your Honda lawn mower.
a. Dry and Protected
Choose a dry, well-ventilated area, such as a garage or shed, to store your mower. Avoid storing it in damp areas, as moisture can lead to corrosion.
b. Off the Ground
Store the mower off the ground to prevent moisture buildup and rodent damage. Use a stand, blocks, or a shelf to elevate it.
c. Secure It
If possible, cover the mower with a tarp or a breathable lawn mower cover to protect it from dust and debris.
Additional Tips for Winter Storage
- Review your owner’s manual: Always consult your Honda lawn mower’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on winter storage.
- Prepare the area: Before you store your mower, clean the storage area to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating on the mower.
- Consider a winterizing kit: Some Honda lawn mower models come with a winterizing kit. This kit includes necessary parts and instructions for properly storing your mower.
Conclusion: Get Your Honda Ready for Winter
By following these steps, you can ensure your Honda lawn mower is properly stored for the winter. This will help extend its lifespan and ensure a smooth start when spring arrives. Remember to always refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions tailored to your model. Happy winter storage!
FAQ
1. How often should I service my Honda lawnmower before winter storage?
You should service your Honda lawnmower before winter storage at least once a year. This includes tasks like changing the oil, sharpening the blades, cleaning the air filter, and inspecting the spark plug. You should also check the battery if your mower has one. If you use your mower frequently, you may need to service it more often.
By servicing your mower before storage, you are preventing potential problems from developing and ensuring that it will be ready to use when you need it in the spring. A well-maintained mower is also more likely to last longer, saving you money in the long run.
2. What type of fuel should I use for my Honda lawnmower?
You should always use fresh, high-quality gasoline that is specifically designed for small engines. Avoid using ethanol-blended fuel, as it can cause problems with your mower over time. For the best results, use fuel with a low ethanol content, such as 10% or less.
If you do use ethanol-blended fuel, consider adding a fuel stabilizer to help prevent gum and varnish buildup in the fuel system. It’s also a good idea to drain the fuel tank and carburetor before storing your mower for long periods, as this will help to prevent problems from occurring.
3. What are the steps for draining the gas tank of my Honda lawnmower?
To drain the gas tank of your Honda lawnmower, you will need to locate the fuel shutoff valve. This valve is typically located near the fuel tank. Once you have located the valve, turn it to the “off” position.
Next, locate the drain plug at the bottom of the fuel tank. Place a container underneath the plug and carefully unscrew it. The gas will drain into the container. Once the tank is empty, you can tighten the drain plug and dispose of the gas properly.
4. Why is it important to clean my Honda lawnmower before winter storage?
Cleaning your Honda lawnmower before winter storage is crucial to prevent rust and corrosion from forming. Grass clippings, dirt, and other debris can accumulate on the mower’s deck, wheels, and engine, creating a breeding ground for rust.
Cleaning your mower removes these contaminants, protecting its metal parts from damage and ensuring its smooth operation when you restart it in the spring. Additionally, a clean mower is easier to store and maintain.
5. How do I properly store my Honda lawnmower for the winter?
The best way to store your Honda lawnmower for the winter is to keep it in a cool, dry place that is free of moisture. If you have a garage or shed, these are ideal locations.
You should also ensure that the mower is protected from the elements. If you are storing it outdoors, cover it with a tarp or a mower cover to keep it dry and free of dirt and debris. If you have a battery-powered mower, ensure the battery is charged and stored in a dry place.
6. Can I store my Honda lawnmower on its side?
It is generally not recommended to store your Honda lawnmower on its side. Storing it on its side can allow oil to leak from the engine, leading to damage and potential problems.
The best way to store a lawnmower is vertically or upright. This ensures the oil stays in the engine, preventing leaks and potential damage. If you have to store it on its side, try to position it so the oil tank is facing upwards to minimize the risk of leaks.
7. What are some signs that my Honda lawnmower needs repair before winter storage?
There are a few signs that your Honda lawnmower needs repair before winter storage. These signs can include:
- The engine is making unusual noises, such as knocking or rattling.
- The mower is difficult to start or runs poorly.
- The mower is leaking oil or fuel.
- The blades are dull or damaged.
If you notice any of these signs, it is best to have your mower serviced by a qualified technician before storing it for the winter. This will help to ensure that your mower is in good working order and ready to use in the spring.