The satisfying whir of a lawnmower on a sunny afternoon is a quintessential part of summer. But as any homeowner knows, the chore isn’t without its challenges. One of those challenges arises when it’s time to store the mower for the season. Do you tip it to the left, right, or even upside down? The answer, it turns out, isn’t as straightforward as it seems. This article will delve into the nuances of tipping your lawnmower, exploring the reasons why it’s done, the potential pitfalls, and ultimately, how to choose the right side for your specific mower.
In short, there isn’t a universal “right” side to tip your lawnmower. The best approach depends on the type of mower you own, its design, and your personal preference. We’ll guide you through the factors to consider, helping you make an informed decision to ensure your mower remains in top shape for years to come.
Understanding the Purpose of Tipping a Lawn Mower
Tipping a lawnmower serves several key purposes:
- For storage: Tipping a mower allows you to store it vertically, saving valuable space in your garage or shed. This is especially important for smaller storage areas.
- For cleaning and maintenance: Tipping allows easier access to the underside of the mower deck, enabling thorough cleaning and maintenance tasks.
- For emptying the grass catcher: Tipping the mower can make it easier to empty the grass catcher bag, especially on models where the bag is located under the deck.
Choosing the “Right” Side: Factors to Consider
The ideal side to tip your lawnmower depends on a combination of factors:
1. The Type of Lawn Mower
The most important factor is the type of mower you have.
- Rotary mowers: These mowers typically have the engine on the top, making it easier to tip them on their side. You can usually tip either side without any problems, although some may have a slight preference for one side.
- Reel mowers: These mowers are generally less forgiving when it comes to tipping. They are often more delicate and may have a specific side that’s designed for tipping. Always consult your owner’s manual for guidance.
2. The Mower’s Design
The design of your specific model will also play a role in determining the best side to tip.
- Fuel tank location: If the fuel tank is on the side, it’s generally best to tip the mower away from the fuel tank to avoid any potential spills.
- Engine type: Some engines have specific orientations for tipping. For instance, some engines may have an oil drain plug on one side, making it preferable to tip that side to allow the oil to drain fully.
- Attachments: If your mower has attachments like a mulching kit or a side discharge chute, consider how tipping might affect these parts.
3. Your Personal Preference
Ultimately, some personal preference is involved. If you’re comfortable tipping one way, you may find it easier than the other. Experiment with both sides and see what feels most natural.
The Risks of Tipping a Lawn Mower
While tipping a lawnmower is often necessary, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks:
1. Engine Damage
Tipping a lawnmower can put stress on the engine, especially if it’s not properly balanced. The engine could be damaged if tipped on its side while the engine is still hot. Always allow the engine to cool completely before tipping.
2. Fuel Leaks
If the fuel tank is tipped while the engine is running, it could cause a fuel leak and create a fire hazard. Always turn off the engine and allow it to cool before tipping.
3. Damage to the Cutting Deck
Tipping a lawnmower too forcefully or on an unstable surface could potentially damage the cutting deck.
4. Oil Spills
If you tip your mower on its side with the oil drain plug facing down, you could experience an oil spill.
How to Tip Your Lawn Mower Safely
Here are some steps to ensure safe tipping:
- Always turn off the engine and allow it to cool completely. This will prevent fuel leaks, engine damage, and accidental starting.
- Consult your owner’s manual. Check the manual for specific instructions on tipping your particular model.
- Choose a level, stable surface. A solid, level surface will prevent the mower from rolling or tipping over.
- Use caution when tipping. Move the mower slowly and use a firm grip to avoid dropping it.
- Position the mower correctly. Ensure the fuel tank, oil drain plug, and any other sensitive components are facing up.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Ultimately, choosing the right side to tip your lawnmower is a matter of understanding your specific model, its design, and your own comfort level. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, by following these guidelines and prioritizing safety, you can ensure your mower remains in top condition and ready for the next mowing season.
Remember, a well-maintained mower is a happy mower, and a happy mower leads to a beautiful lawn.
FAQs
Why does the side of a lawnmower matter when tipping it?
The side of a lawnmower you tip it on matters because it influences the flow of fuel and oil. Tipping the mower on the wrong side can cause fuel to leak out of the carburetor or oil to leak out of the engine. This can damage the engine and make it difficult to start the mower.
Generally, you should avoid tipping the mower on its side altogether. Instead, if you need to access the underside of the mower, you can either remove the deck or use a jack to lift the mower safely.
What happens if I tip my lawnmower on the wrong side?
Tipping your lawnmower on the wrong side can lead to several issues, including:
- Fuel leak: If you tip the mower on the side with the carburetor, fuel can leak out. This can create a fire hazard and make it difficult to start the mower.
- Oil leak: Tipping the mower on the side with the oil pan can cause oil to leak out. This can damage the engine and make it harder to start the mower.
- Damage to components: Tipping the mower on its side can also damage other components, such as the air filter, spark plug, or blades.
While these issues might not happen immediately, they can occur over time, leading to major problems with your lawnmower.
Is it okay to tip a lawnmower on its side to clean it?
Tipping a lawnmower on its side to clean it is generally not recommended. While it might seem convenient, it poses several risks, including:
- Fuel and oil leaks: Tipping the mower can lead to fuel and oil leaks, as mentioned before.
- Damage to components: Tipping the mower can also damage components like the air filter, spark plug, or blades.
- Difficulty starting: Tipping the mower on its side can make it difficult to start after cleaning due to potential fuel and oil issues.
Instead, you can use a brush and compressed air to clean the underside of the mower without tipping it.
How do I safely tip a lawnmower to access the underside?
If you absolutely need to access the underside of your lawnmower, you can use a jack to lift the mower safely. Here’s how:
- Place a jack under the mower’s frame, ensuring it’s securely positioned.
- Slowly lift the mower until the underside is accessible.
- Support the mower with blocks or stands to ensure it doesn’t fall.
- Once you’re finished, slowly lower the mower back to the ground.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use caution when lifting the mower.
What if I don’t know which side to tip my lawnmower on?
If you’re unsure which side to tip your lawnmower on, the safest option is to avoid tipping it altogether.
Instead, you can:
- Remove the deck of the mower to access the underside for cleaning or repairs.
- Use a jack to lift the mower safely, as mentioned earlier.
- Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to safely handle your particular model.
Following these steps will help you avoid potential issues and keep your lawnmower in top condition.
Can I use a lawnmower after tipping it on its side?
While it might seem like using a lawnmower after tipping it on its side is alright, it’s best to avoid it. Tipping the mower can lead to:
- Fuel and oil leaks: These leaks can create a fire hazard and damage the engine.
- Difficulty starting: The mower might be difficult to start due to fuel or oil issues.
- Damage to components: Tipping the mower can damage internal components, leading to malfunctions.
It’s always better to err on the side of caution and avoid tipping your lawnmower on its side.
Are there any exceptions to tipping a lawnmower on its side?
In rare cases, some lawnmower models might have a specific design that allows for safe tipping on the side. However, it’s always best to consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
If the manual doesn’t mention anything about tipping the mower, it’s best to avoid it altogether.
Remember, it’s always safer to err on the side of caution and avoid tipping your lawnmower on its side unless absolutely necessary.