The crisp air bites, the leaves are turning, and the smell of pumpkin spice fills the air. It’s officially fall, and for many of us, that means the end of lawn mowing season. But before you tuck your trusty gas mower away for the winter, there’s one crucial step to ensure it starts up smoothly come springtime: winterization.
Winterizing your gas lawn mower doesn’t have to be a daunting task. It’s a simple process that involves a few essential steps to protect your mower from the harsh winter elements and ensure its longevity. This article will guide you through the entire process, from draining the fuel to cleaning and storing your mower, so you can rest assured knowing your lawn care equipment is ready for the next mowing season.
A quick overview: Winterizing a gas mower involves preparing it for long-term storage by emptying the fuel tank, cleaning the mower, and taking steps to prevent corrosion and damage. This will help your mower start easily and run smoothly when you need it in the spring.
Step 1: Empty the Fuel Tank
The first step is to drain the fuel from the tank. Gasoline can go bad over time, and this can damage your mower’s engine. The stale fuel will gum up the carburetor and fuel lines, leading to difficulty starting and poor performance in the spring.
1.1 Use a Fuel Stabilizer
Instead of draining the fuel, you can also use a fuel stabilizer. This is a good option if you don’t want to drain the tank or if you plan to use your mower again before the end of the season. Fuel stabilizers are available at most hardware and lawn care stores.
1.2 Drain the Fuel Tank
Here’s how to drain the fuel tank:
- Find a safe location. Choose a well-ventilated area away from any ignition sources.
- Prepare a container. You’ll need a container to collect the fuel. A gas can or a sturdy plastic container will work.
- Locate the fuel tank drain valve. This is usually located on the bottom of the tank.
- Open the valve. Open the valve and let the fuel drain into your container.
- Close the valve. Once the tank is empty, close the valve and dispose of the fuel properly.
1.3 Run the Engine
After draining the tank, start the mower and let it run until the fuel line is empty. This will help to clear out any remaining fuel in the carburetor.
Step 2: Clean Your Gas Lawn Mower
Cleaning your mower is essential for winterizing it. It helps prevent corrosion and makes it easier to inspect and maintain in the spring.
2.1 Clean the Exterior
- Use a brush or a pressure washer. Remove any dirt, grass clippings, and debris from the exterior of the mower.
- Focus on the underside. Be sure to clean the underside of the deck, where grass clippings tend to accumulate.
- Clean the air filter. Remove and clean the air filter with a brush or compressed air. If it’s too dirty, replace it.
2.2 Clean the Blades
- Remove the blades. Use a wrench to remove the blades.
- Clean the blades. Clean the blades with a wire brush or a metal scraper. Be sure to remove any grass buildup and sharpen them if necessary.
- Reinstall the blades. Reinstall the blades with the correct torque, making sure they’re securely fastened.
2.3 Clean the Spark Plug
- Remove the spark plug. Use a spark plug wrench to remove the spark plug.
- Inspect the spark plug. Look for signs of wear or damage.
- Clean the spark plug. Clean the spark plug with a wire brush. If it’s damaged, replace it.
- Reinstall the spark plug. Reinstall the spark plug and tighten it to the correct torque.
Step 3: Change the Oil
Changing the oil is an important part of winterizing your gas lawn mower. Old oil can thicken and become acidic over time, which can damage your engine.
3.1 Drain the Old Oil
- Warm up the engine. Start the mower and let it run for a few minutes to warm up the oil.
- Locate the oil drain plug. This is usually located on the bottom of the engine block.
- Place a drain pan under the plug.
- Remove the drain plug. Slowly remove the drain plug and let the oil drain into the pan.
- Replace the drain plug. Once the oil has drained, replace the drain plug and tighten it securely.
3.2 Add New Oil
- Check the oil dipstick. Locate the oil dipstick, pull it out, wipe it clean, and insert it back in all the way. Pull it out again to check the oil level.
- Add new oil. Add fresh oil to the engine through the oil fill cap until the dipstick reads the proper level.
Step 4: Store Your Gas Lawn Mower Properly
Storing your mower correctly will help protect it from the elements and ensure it’s ready for use next spring.
4.1 Find a Dry and Secure Location
- Keep it in a dry place. Moisture can cause rust and corrosion, so choose a dry storage area.
- Keep it out of the elements. Store your mower in a garage, shed, or other covered area.
- Protect from pests. Consider using a tarp or a cover to keep your mower protected from rodents and insects.
4.2 Stabilize the Mower
- Prop up the mower. Prop the mower on its wheels or on blocks to prevent flat spots on the tires.
- Consider a storage cover. A fitted storage cover can help protect your mower from dust and dirt.
Step 5: Final Touches and Preparation for Spring
Before you put your gas lawn mower away for the winter, there are a few final steps you can take to make sure it’s ready to go when you need it again:
- Inspect for any damage. Give your mower a final inspection for any damage or wear and tear.
- Lubricate moving parts. Apply a light oil to moving parts, such as the wheels, blades, and cables.
- Check the battery. If your mower has a battery, check the battery level and charge it if necessary.
- Clean and inspect the fuel line and filter. Make sure they are clean and in good condition.
Conclusion
Winterizing your gas lawn mower may seem like a chore, but it’s essential for ensuring a smooth start and long life for your equipment. By taking these steps, you’ll be able to store your mower with confidence and get back to mowing your lawn in the spring with ease. Remember, regular maintenance is key to keeping your mower in top shape and extending its lifespan. So take the time to winterize your mower properly and enjoy many seasons of trouble-free lawn care.
FAQ
How do I know if my lawn mower needs winterizing?
You should winterize your gas lawn mower if you live in an area that experiences freezing temperatures. If the temperature dips below freezing, water in the fuel system can freeze, damaging the engine. Additionally, winterizing your mower helps prevent corrosion and ensures a smooth start in the spring.
What are the steps involved in winterizing my gas lawn mower?
The steps involved in winterizing your gas lawn mower include:
- Clean the mower: Remove any grass clippings and debris from the mower deck, engine, and undercarriage.
- Empty the fuel tank: Remove any remaining fuel from the tank to prevent it from going bad or freezing over winter.
- Add fuel stabilizer: Add fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank to prevent corrosion and gum buildup.
- Start the engine: Run the mower for a few minutes to circulate the stabilized fuel throughout the system.
- Change the oil: Drain the old oil and replace it with fresh oil.
- Clean or replace the air filter: A clean air filter is essential for a smooth-running engine in the spring.
- Store the mower properly: Store the mower in a dry place, preferably indoors or under a tarp.
What type of fuel stabilizer should I use?
Use a fuel stabilizer specifically designed for gasoline. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct amount to add. These stabilizers prevent fuel from breaking down, forming gum, and clogging the carburetor.
Can I just drain the fuel and store the mower?
You can drain the fuel tank, but it’s recommended to add fuel stabilizer as well. This is because even with the tank drained, there might be small amounts of fuel left in the system, and a stabilizer can protect these residual amounts from going bad.
How often should I winterize my gas lawn mower?
It’s recommended to winterize your lawn mower once a year, before the first frost. Doing so ensures a smooth start in the spring and minimizes the risk of damage to the engine.
Is it necessary to change the oil before storing?
Yes, changing the oil is crucial before storing your lawn mower for the winter. Old oil can thicken and become more viscous in cold temperatures, which can hinder the engine’s performance. Fresh oil ensures a smooth start when you’re ready to use the mower again in the spring.
What if I forget to winterize my lawn mower?
If you forget to winterize your lawn mower, don’t panic! You can still prepare it for spring. First, make sure the fuel is fresh and hasn’t gone bad. If it has, drain the tank and refill with fresh gasoline. If you suspect the carburetor may be gummed up, you can try to clean it with a carburetor cleaner. Finally, change the oil, clean the air filter, and you should be good to go!