County Gardeners Extension Express
Lawnmower Maintenance
Whether you live in the city, the suburbs, or in the country, there is a good chance you own a lawnmower. While lawnmowers do require regular upkeep, fortunately most steps can be completed easily. This should be done by carefully following maintenance instructions found in the lawn mower service manual. Here are some commonly recommended steps to provide routine lawnmower maintenance.
Sharp lawnmower blades cut the grass evenly, while dull blades tear it and leave a ragged lawn. A quality cut helps prevent disease and insect damage and produces a more attractive appearance. Most blades can be sharpened several times before blade replacement is necessary. How often the blade should be sharpened will depend on use, but once before the growing season and once a month during is generally adequate. The blade should be replaced if the corners of the blade are rounded off or if the cutting ends of the blade are thin.
Periodic oil changes are necessary throughout the mower’s duration. For the average homeowner an oil change is essential about once a year, though it should be done more often in dusty conditions or if it takes over an hour to mow. When adding oil, make sure to only refill to the marked area on the dipstick as too much can be harmful to the engine.
As the mower is used, dust particles and grass clippings attach to the air filter. An unclean air filter reduces the amount of air available for combustion. Clean newer air filters and replace them once they become too worn. How often the air filter will need service depends on the dustiness of the mowing area.
Electricity from the spark plug is needed for the engine to start, with spark plug replacement typically required after 100 hours of use. The best time to inspect your spark plug is at the end of the season. If the plug tip or electrode is worn or burned, or if the threads are rusty, the plug should be replaced.
Keeping your mower clean is one of the best things you can do as moisture from leftover grass clippings will lead to rusting over time. Use a brush or blower to remove these clippings, making sure to check the mower carefully for easy to miss areas.
