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Lawn Mower Maintenance |
| Rotary lawn mowers, riding mowers and commercial walk-behinds require periodic maintenance to keep it working efficiently and safely. Always read your operating and service instruction manual provided with your mower, and follow their suggested maintenance routine. The tips listed below are in no way complete and Mill Supply is not responsible for accidents you may incur during your maintenance procedure. If you have other tips or ideas you would like to see on this page please click here to send us an email. |
Engine Maintenance |
| It is essential to do basic engine maintenance for years of service. Use the gasoline and oil recommended from the manufacturer. Do not work on the engine until it has had a cool down period. Engines get very hot and can cause severe burns. If working with a push rotary mower and you are inspecting the undercarriage, always tilt the mower so that the air filter side of the mower is up. Otherwise, oil will drain out into the air filter and the engine won’t start. Also detach the spark-plug wire so the engine won’t start accidentally. Keep spark plugs clean and replace as recommended. If the engine needs the carburetor taken apart, cleaned or gaskets replaced, it is recommended to count the number of turns when removing the low and high speed needle valves. It is very hard to re-adjust the carburetor if you have never done this before. Check air filters on a regular schedule (possibly monthly) and clean or replace them when dirty. mower maintenance |
Mower Blades |
| Shredded or brown tips of grass blades are an indication of a dull or damaged mower blade. It is a good idea to have an extra blade or set of blades on hand so they can be changed a number of times during the season. Then, while one set is on the mower the other can be sharpened. Do it right away so you don’t forget, usually you will notice right when you’re ready to mow and you’ll need that sharp blade now. You can sharpen rotary mower blades with a grinding wheel and file, but be careful not to destroy the balance. To determine which end of the mower blade is out of balance, put a nail in the wall and hang the blade from the hole in the center of the blade. File more off the blade on the heavy end. When remounting your blades, be sure not to put them on upside down. |
Excess Vibration |
Excess vibration is an indication of a damaged blade, mounting, or crankshaft. Frequently check for loose bolts and tighten when necessary. Check blade bolts, engine mounting bolts, as well as any other nuts, bolts and screws. Check mower wheels, bearings and axles for wear and lubrication. If there are grease fittings, be sure to grease each mowing if you use a commercial mower. Replace broken, loose or wobbly wheels. Be sure to keep the drive mechanism on self-propelled mowers in good working order. Check belts and gears for wear and fit. |
General Cleaning up & Winter Preperation |
| After each use, clean the underside
of the mower with a strong stream of water. The metal deck can rust out
if residue builds up. Keep the engine free of grass, leaves and excessive
grease. Check the grass-catcher bag for wear or deterioration, and replace
when necessary. At the end of the mowing season, be sure to drain the gas
and either change the oil now or be sure you do it before the first cutting
in the spring. Follow the winterizing instructions in your owner’s
manual. If you have no idea on how to take care of your mower, have a competent service person thoroughly inspect your mower each year. |