The crisp air, the smell of pumpkin spice, and the leaves changing colors – autumn is a time for enjoying the outdoors. But it’s also a time to prepare your lawn mower for the long winter ahead. One question that often comes up is: should you drain the oil from your lawn mower? This seemingly simple question can spark a debate among lawn care enthusiasts. This article will explore the pros and cons of draining your lawn mower oil for winter storage, helping you decide what’s best for your machine.
In short, it’s generally recommended to drain the oil from your lawn mower before storing it for winter. While it’s not a hard and fast rule, doing so helps prevent oil breakdown, corrosion, and ensures your mower is ready for spring.
Why Drain the Oil?
The primary reason for draining your lawn mower oil is to prevent degradation and damage during the winter months. Here’s why:
Oil Degradation
- Moisture: The winter air often holds more moisture, which can seep into your mower’s engine, leading to condensation. This moisture can mix with the oil, creating an acidic environment that can corrode internal engine parts.
- Oil Breakdown: Even if no moisture enters, the oil itself can break down over time. The additives in the oil can deteriorate, leading to reduced lubrication and increased wear on moving parts.
- Gummy Deposits: Oil can thicken and turn into gummy deposits, particularly if it’s left in the engine for a long period. These deposits can clog oil passages and hinder proper lubrication, causing engine problems when you start the mower in the spring.
Other Benefits
- Clean Engine: Draining the oil allows you to clean the engine, removing any debris or sediment that may have accumulated during the season.
- Fresh Oil for Spring: When you refill the engine with fresh oil in the spring, you ensure that it’s properly lubricated from the start.
When Is It NOT Necessary to Drain?
While draining the oil is often the best practice, there are some circumstances where it might not be strictly necessary:
- Short Storage: If you live in a climate with mild winters and plan to use your mower occasionally throughout the winter, draining the oil might not be essential.
- New Oil: If you changed the oil recently before storing the mower, it might be fine to leave it in. However, it’s still a good idea to check the oil level and top it off if needed.
How to Drain the Oil Properly
If you decide to drain the oil, follow these steps:
- Warm Up the Engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to allow the oil to thin and drain more easily.
- Locate the Drain Plug: Find the drain plug, usually located at the bottom of the engine crankcase.
- Prepare a Drain Pan: Place a drain pan or container beneath the drain plug to collect the used oil.
- Loosen and Remove the Drain Plug: Carefully loosen the drain plug with a wrench or socket. Once it’s loose, allow the oil to drain completely.
- Replace the Drain Plug: Tighten the drain plug securely when all the oil has drained.
- Dispose of the Oil Properly: Do not pour used oil down the drain or into the garbage. Dispose of it at a designated oil recycling center or auto parts store.
Maintaining Your Mower During Storage
Beyond draining the oil, there are other steps you can take to ensure your lawn mower is ready for next season:
- Clean the Mower: Thoroughly clean the mower deck, underside, and engine. Remove any grass clippings, debris, or dirt.
- Change the Air Filter: Replace the air filter with a new one to prevent dust and dirt from entering the engine.
- Check and Adjust the Spark Plug: Inspect the spark plug for wear and tear. Replace it if necessary.
- Add Fuel Stabilizer: If you’re not draining the fuel tank, add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from going bad.
- Store in a Dry Place: Store your mower in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent corrosion and rust.
The Bottom Line: To Drain or Not to Drain?
The decision of whether or not to drain your lawn mower oil for winter is ultimately up to you and your specific circumstances. However, considering the benefits of draining and the potential downsides of not draining, it’s generally the best practice for most lawn mower owners.
By draining the oil, you can help prevent damage to your mower’s engine and ensure it starts smoothly and reliably when spring arrives. So, if you want to keep your lawn mower running strong for many seasons to come, take the time to drain the oil and perform some basic maintenance before storing it for winter.
FAQs
Why Should I Drain the Oil from My Lawn Mower for Winter?
Draining the oil from your lawn mower before winter storage is essential for preventing engine damage. Over time, gasoline degrades and leaves behind gum and varnish that can clog the carburetor and fuel lines. When left in the engine, this residue can thicken the oil and create a sludge that can damage engine components. By draining the oil, you remove this harmful residue, ensuring a smooth start when spring arrives.
How Do I Drain the Oil From My Lawn Mower?
To drain the oil from your lawn mower, first, ensure the engine is cool. Locate the oil drain plug, typically found on the bottom of the engine. Place a drain pan underneath the plug to catch the oil. Unscrew the drain plug and allow the oil to fully drain. Once the flow stops, re-install the drain plug and dispose of the oil properly.
What Kind of Oil Should I Use to Refill My Lawn Mower?
The type of oil you use for your lawn mower will depend on the manufacturer’s recommendations. Consult your owner’s manual for the recommended oil viscosity and type. Generally, a high-quality, 4-stroke engine oil specifically designed for small engines is best. Avoid using automotive oil as it can be too thick for lawn mower engines.
What Happens if I Don’t Drain the Oil?
Leaving the oil in your lawn mower over winter can lead to several problems. The oil can thicken and become sludge, which can clog engine components and cause damage. The degraded gasoline can also mix with the oil, further contaminating it and potentially damaging the engine. Additionally, the fuel system can become clogged, preventing the engine from starting when spring arrives.
Do I Need to Change the Oil Before Winter Storage?
Yes, it’s generally recommended to change the oil before winter storage. Even if you only used the mower for a short period during the season, the oil will still have accumulated wear particles and potentially degraded fuel residue. Changing the oil ensures a clean and fresh start when you use the mower again in the spring.
What Other Maintenance Should I Perform Before Winter Storage?
In addition to draining the oil, several other maintenance tasks are crucial before storing your lawn mower for winter. Clean the mower thoroughly, removing any dirt or debris that could damage the engine or other components. Sharpen the blades to ensure proper cutting performance the following season. Remove the spark plug and add a few drops of oil to the cylinder to prevent rust.
How Do I Properly Dispose of Used Oil?
Used oil should never be poured down the drain or into the ground. It’s crucial to dispose of it properly to protect the environment. Many municipalities offer oil recycling programs where you can drop off your used oil for proper disposal. You can also find oil recycling centers at local auto parts stores or garages.