The warm, sunny days of summer are over, and the leaves are starting to fall. This means one thing for lawn mower owners: it’s time to put your trusty riding mower away for the winter. But storing a riding lawn mower isn’t as simple as just parking it in the garage.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the best practices for storing your riding lawn mower in the garage, ensuring it’s ready for action next spring. We’ll cover everything from pre-storage preparation to securing your mower for optimal protection against the elements and wear and tear.
Storing your riding lawn mower in the garage requires more than just parking it inside. You need to clean it thoroughly, drain fluids, and store it properly to prevent damage and ensure optimal performance for the next season.
Prepare Your Riding Lawn Mower for Storage
Before you even think about rolling your mower into the garage, it’s crucial to give it a thorough cleaning and maintenance checkup. This pre-storage preparation will ensure a smooth start next spring and potentially prevent costly repairs down the line.
Thorough Cleaning is Key
- Dust and Debris: A layer of dust and grass clippings can attract moisture and lead to rust, especially in the engine and undercarriage. Use a brush, shop vac, and a damp cloth to remove all debris.
- Engine and Undercarriage: Pay extra attention to the engine compartment, undercarriage, and the underside of the mower deck. A degreaser can help loosen stubborn dirt and grime.
- Fuel Tank: Wipe down the exterior of the fuel tank and make sure the fuel cap is securely closed to prevent leaks and evaporation.
Essential Maintenance Tasks
- Change the Oil: Old oil can gum up the engine over winter. Change the oil according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, using the correct type and viscosity.
- Replace the Air Filter: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and affect engine performance.
- Inspect and Clean the Spark Plugs: Replace worn or fouled spark plugs, and clean the electrodes on good plugs for optimal ignition next season.
- Check and Adjust the Tire Pressure: Properly inflated tires prevent flat spots and ensure the mower runs smoothly next spring.
Storage Solutions for Your Riding Lawn Mower
With your mower prepped and ready for storage, it’s time to find the perfect spot in your garage. Here are some solutions to ensure your mower is safe and protected throughout the winter:
Utilizing Garage Space
- Dedicated Storage Area: Ideally, you should have a designated space for your riding lawn mower. This could be a corner, a section of the garage wall, or even a dedicated storage rack.
- Covering Your Mower: Using a tarp or a purpose-built mower cover will protect your investment from dust, debris, and moisture. Ensure the cover fits snugly to prevent it from blowing away.
Securing Your Mower
- Stabilizing the Mower: Use wheel chocks to secure the mower’s wheels and prevent it from rolling around. This is especially important if you’re storing your mower on an incline.
- Securing the Mower Deck: If possible, raise the mower deck slightly to prevent it from touching the floor. This will help air circulate underneath and prevent moisture buildup.
Storing Fluids and Accessories
When storing your riding lawn mower, you need to pay attention to how you handle fluids and accessories. This helps prevent leaks, damage, and potential hazards in your garage.
Fuel Handling
- Empty the Fuel Tank: If possible, empty the fuel tank before storage. Gasoline can go bad over time and cause problems when you try to start the engine next spring.
- Stabilizer for Long-Term Storage: If you can’t empty the fuel tank, add a fuel stabilizer to prevent gumming and varnish buildup. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct amount.
Battery Storage
- Remove the Battery: If possible, remove the battery and store it in a cool, dry place.
- Battery Tender: If you decide to keep the battery in the mower, consider using a battery tender. A battery tender will keep the battery charged and prevent it from draining over time.
Storing Accessories
- Store Accessories Separately: Store any accessories, like the mower deck, blades, or attachments, separately in a dry, secure location.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Clean and inspect the accessories before storage.
Preparing for Next Season
When spring arrives, it’s time to get your riding lawn mower back in action. Here’s a quick guide to ensure a smooth transition:
Pre-Start Checklist
- Check the Fluid Levels: Ensure the oil and coolant levels are at the correct levels.
- Inspect the Spark Plugs: Inspect the spark plugs and replace them if necessary.
- Check the Tire Pressure: Check and adjust the tire pressure to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Fuel System Check: If you added a fuel stabilizer, use fresh fuel for the first start of the season.
First Start and Test Run
- Start the Engine: Start the engine and allow it to warm up for a few minutes.
- Test Run: Take the mower for a test run on a flat surface to ensure everything is working properly.
Conclusion: Safeguarding Your Investment
Storing your riding lawn mower in your garage properly is a crucial step in ensuring its longevity and performance. By following these tips and taking the time to prepare your mower for winter storage, you’ll be able to enjoy years of trouble-free mowing. Remember to invest in the right storage solutions, perform regular maintenance checks, and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the best results.
FAQs
1. What’s the best way to prepare my riding lawn mower for storage?
Before storing your riding lawn mower, there are a few essential steps to take. First, give your mower a thorough cleaning. Remove any dirt, grass clippings, or debris from the exterior and underneath the deck. Then, drain the fuel tank and replace it with fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from going bad over time. Finally, change the oil and air filter, and inspect the spark plugs for wear and tear.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your mower is ready to sit dormant for the winter and will start up without any issues when you’re ready to use it again.
2. Should I disconnect the battery before storage?
Yes, disconnecting the battery is a good practice when storing your riding lawn mower. This prevents the battery from draining, which can shorten its lifespan. You can remove the battery entirely or disconnect the terminals with a wrench. If you choose to leave the battery connected, make sure it is fully charged before storing the mower.
Disconnecting the battery also minimizes the risk of electrical shorts or damage to the mower’s electrical system during storage. It’s a simple preventative measure that can save you potential problems in the long run.
3. How do I prevent rust from forming on my mower?
Rust is a common problem for lawn mowers, particularly during storage. To prevent rust, apply a thin coat of oil or wax to all metal parts of the mower, including the deck, blades, and any exposed metal surfaces. You can also use a rust inhibitor spray for additional protection.
Cleaning your mower thoroughly before storage and ensuring it is dry will also minimize the risk of rust. Remember, a clean and oiled mower is less prone to rust and will last longer.
4. Where in the garage should I store my riding lawn mower?
The best place to store your riding lawn mower in the garage is in a dry, well-ventilated area. If possible, store it on a raised platform or a piece of plywood to protect it from moisture that may accumulate on the garage floor. Avoid storing it near any heat sources or flammable materials.
Try to find a space where you can easily access the mower for maintenance and repairs. If you have limited space, consider purchasing a mower cover to protect it from dust and debris while in storage.
5. What kind of cover should I use for my riding lawn mower?
A good quality mower cover will protect your machine from dust, debris, and moisture during storage. Choose a cover that is made from waterproof, breathable material and fits your mower snugly. A cover with a drawstring or elastic band will help to keep it securely in place.
Avoid using plastic tarps or covers that don’t breathe, as they can trap moisture and lead to rust and mildew formation.
6. How often should I check on my lawn mower during storage?
It’s a good idea to check on your lawn mower every few months during storage, especially if you live in a humid climate. Inspect the mower for any signs of rust, mildew, or damage. You can also start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to make sure the fuel system is working properly.
If you notice any issues, address them promptly to prevent further damage.
7. How do I prepare my riding lawn mower for use after storage?
When you’re ready to use your riding lawn mower again after storage, follow these steps:
First, remove the mower cover and give it a thorough cleaning. Then, check the oil level and top it off if necessary. If you drained the fuel tank before storage, fill it with fresh gasoline. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to allow the oil to circulate.
Inspect the tires for proper inflation and check the blades for any signs of damage. You’re now ready to mow!