You’ve finished mowing the lawn, the sun is setting, and it’s time to put away your trusty lawn mower. But before you stash it in the shed, a crucial question arises: which side should you tip it on? This seemingly simple act can have significant implications for the lifespan and performance of your mower. This article dives into the nuances of tipping a lawn mower, exploring the potential risks and benefits of each side, and ultimately guiding you towards the safest and most efficient approach.
In short, the best side to tip a lawn mower is generally the left side. This is because the engine is typically located on the right side, making the left side more stable when tilted. This prevents oil from spilling and potential damage to the engine.
Why Tipping a Lawn Mower Matters
Tipping your lawn mower isn’t just about finding the most convenient position to store it. It plays a critical role in ensuring your mower functions properly and lasts for years to come. Here’s why:
Avoiding Oil Spills
The most significant concern when tipping a lawn mower is the potential for oil to spill from the engine. Modern lawn mowers have oil sump compartments designed to minimize spills, but tipping on the wrong side can still lead to oil leaking out, creating a mess and potentially damaging sensitive engine components.
Preventing Damage to Internal Components
When you tip your lawn mower, the weight of the engine and fuel tank shifts, potentially putting stress on internal components like the carburetor, fuel lines, and air filter. Tipping on the wrong side can exacerbate this stress, potentially leading to damage that can be difficult and costly to repair.
The Case for Tipping on the Left Side
As we mentioned earlier, tipping a lawn mower on the left side is generally considered the safest and most recommended method. This is because:
Engine Placement:
The majority of lawn mowers have the engine positioned on the right side, making the left side the more balanced and stable option when tipping. This minimizes the risk of the engine tipping over and causing damage.
Oil Drain Location:
The oil drain plug is usually located on the bottom of the engine, which is typically on the right side of the mower. Tipping on the left side keeps the oil drain plug higher than the opening of the oil sump, minimizing the risk of oil spilling out.
Air Filter Safety:
In some cases, tipping a mower on the wrong side can cause fuel to leak into the air filter, potentially damaging it. Tipping on the left side minimizes this risk, as the fuel tank is usually on the right side of the mower.
The Risks of Tipping on the Right Side
While tipping on the left side is generally recommended, there are situations where tipping on the right side might seem like a better option. However, doing so carries certain risks:
Increased Risk of Oil Spills:
Tipping on the right side, where the engine is located, directly exposes the oil drain plug. This increases the risk of oil spilling out, especially if the engine isn’t completely level when tipped.
Potential Damage to Engine:
The weight of the engine is directly shifted towards the ground when tipped on the right side, putting potentially damaging pressure on the internal components. This risk is further amplified if the mower isn’t properly supported when tipped.
Fuel Leakage:
Tipping on the right side can sometimes cause the fuel tank to be tilted, potentially leading to fuel leaking out.
When Can Tipping on the Right Side Be Considered?
While tipping on the right side is generally not recommended, there might be rare instances where it could be considered:
Cleaning the Underside:
If you need to clean the underside of your mower, tipping it on the right side might be necessary to access certain areas. However, exercise caution and support the mower properly to avoid damaging the engine.
Storage Limitations:
If your storage space is limited and only allows for tipping on the right side, then it might be the only viable option. However, ensure that the mower is properly supported and secured to prevent it from falling.
Tips for Safe Tipping
Regardless of which side you choose to tip your lawn mower, following these safety tips is crucial:
1. Consult the Manual:
Your lawn mower’s manual should provide specific instructions on how to tip it safely. Always prioritize the manufacturer’s recommendations.
2. Use a Stable Surface:
Never tip your lawn mower on an uneven or unstable surface. Choose a firm, level ground to minimize the risk of it falling over.
3. Support the Mower:
Use a sturdy object, like a block of wood, to support the mower’s side when tipping it. This helps to prevent the mower from falling over and causing damage.
4. Secure the Mower:
If you’re tipping the mower for storage, ensure it’s securely held in place to prevent it from moving or falling.
5. Check for Leaks:
After tipping your mower, inspect it for any oil leaks. If you find any, address them promptly to prevent further damage.
Conclusion
Tipping a lawn mower might seem like a simple task, but it’s crucial to do it correctly to prevent damage and ensure the longevity of your equipment. While tipping on the left side is generally the safest option, the right side might be considered in limited situations. Always prioritize safety and consult your mower’s manual for specific instructions. By following these guidelines, you can ensure your lawn mower remains in top shape, ready for the next mowing season.
FAQ
What is the proper way to tip a lawnmower?
The proper way to tip a lawnmower depends on the type of mower you have. For a push mower, you should tip it back on its rear wheels. This allows you to access the underside of the mower for maintenance or cleaning. However, for a riding lawnmower, you should never tip it on its side or back. This is because the engine can leak oil or fuel, which can cause damage to the mower and the environment.
Always refer to your mower’s owner’s manual for specific tipping instructions. If you’re unsure, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid tipping the mower completely.
Why should I tip my lawnmower on its rear wheels?
Tipping a push mower on its rear wheels allows you to easily access the underside of the mower. This is necessary for various maintenance tasks, including:
- Cleaning the underside: Accumulated debris like grass clippings and dirt can clog the mower deck, affecting its performance. Tipping allows you to easily clean the underside, ensuring smooth operation.
- Accessing the blades: For sharpening, replacing, or inspecting the blades, you need to access the underside of the mower. Tipping makes this process easier and safer.
- Checking for oil leaks: Tipping helps identify any oil leaks from the engine or transmission, allowing you to address the issue before it escalates.
Can I tip my riding lawnmower?
It’s generally not recommended to tip a riding lawnmower. These mowers are significantly heavier and more complex than push mowers. Tipping them can result in:
- Engine oil leaks: The engine is often positioned horizontally in riding mowers, and tipping them can cause oil to leak, potentially damaging the mower and the environment.
- Fuel leaks: Similar to oil, fuel leaks can occur if the mower is tipped, posing a fire hazard.
- Damage to the transmission: Tipping can put undue stress on the transmission system, leading to damage and costly repairs.
Is it safe to tip a lawnmower?
Tipping a lawnmower can be safe if done correctly and with caution. Always ensure that the mower is parked on a level surface and that the engine is off and cold.
For push mowers, tipping it back on its rear wheels is generally safe, as long as you support the mower properly to prevent it from falling. However, avoid tipping riding mowers due to the risk of damage and leaks.
How do I tip a lawnmower safely?
To tip a push mower safely, follow these steps:
- Park the mower on a level surface and ensure the engine is off and cold.
- Pull the mower’s handle towards you to lift the front wheels off the ground.
- Gently tip the mower backwards until it rests on its rear wheels.
- Ensure the mower is stable and supported to prevent it from falling.
What if my lawnmower is tilted on its side?
If your push mower has been tilted on its side, it’s essential to address it as soon as possible. The following points explain why:
- Oil leaks: The oil in the engine might leak out if the mower is left on its side for an extended period.
- Fuel leaks: Similar to oil, fuel can leak from the carburetor or fuel tank if the mower is tilted for a long time.
- Damage to the engine: The engine might be damaged due to oil or fuel leaks or if debris enters the engine air intake.
What are some alternatives to tipping a lawnmower?
If you need to access the underside of your lawnmower, you can consider these alternatives to tipping:
- Using a jack: A car jack can be used to lift the mower slightly to allow for access to the underside. This method is particularly useful for riding mowers, as it avoids the risk of tipping.
- Removing the mower deck: Some mowers allow for easy removal of the mower deck, providing complete access to the underside for maintenance or cleaning.
- Consulting a professional: If you’re uncomfortable with any of these methods, consider taking your mower to a professional for maintenance or repairs.