How To Maintain Your Petrol or Diesel Lawnmower

In order to maintain your mower in tip top working condition, basic care is essential. The average home owner has a push mower – generally with a petrol or diesel powered engine. There are also an increasing number of electric or cordless battery operated push mowers on the market – which although not as powerful as the petrol or diesel powered alternatives, benefit from being exceptionally low maintenance.

The other type of mower is the riding mower, this is more suitable for larger gardens, public parks, golf courses etc. and tends to be too big for the majority of home gardens.

Tips For Taking Care Of Your Petrol/Diesel Powered Engine

The Oil

The oil should be changed regularly, particles of dirt and residue will begin to collect in the oil and over time this will eventually clog the engine. Always use the oil recommended by the mower’s manufacturer and make sure the oil is not only kept clean but also topped up.

Stale Fuel

Fuel should be kept fresh, after time it tends to lose condition and go stale – this can cause difficulties when starting the mower. Make sure the fuel tank is thoroughly emptied before storage.

Air Filters

Air filters can either be paper based or made from foam. The paper filters should be replaced when they become very worn and dirty. Small particles of dust and debris may be removed by using a high pressure air hose. Foam filters can be washed in water with a detergent solution.

Spark Plugs

The spark plugs should be kept clean and checked regularly – if in good condition they can be reused, or replaced if not.

The Blade

Check your lawn mower’s blade at regular intervals and replace every couple of years to maintain optimal cutting. The blade can be professionally sharpened or alternatively it can be done at home with the appropriate tools.

Wet Grass

Cutting wet grass and hitting any hard objects such as stones etc. will blunt the blades much more quickly. Wet grass is also much heavier, it will clump together more and stick to the blades and the interior of the mower more than dry grass.

Keeping Your Mower Clean

As with any garden equipment, keeping it clean will help it last longer. The mower should be wiped clean and excess grass cuttings removed. If you wish to check the underside of the mower, be careful how you tip it over. Depending on the exact type of mower, there should be different instructions on how it should be turned, in order to prevent any fuel or oil migrating into other parts of the engine.

Storage

When storing your mower away for the winter season, the underside should be well cleaned and the fuel emptied. The mower must be stored somewhere dry and well covered, on a level surface. Never be tempted to hang the mower on the wall as oil may seep into other parts of the engine.