What is the best way to keep any engine running smoothly for as many years as possible? Maintenance. Proper maintenance is critical for engine longevity and reliability.
Before performing riding lawn mower maintenance, start by disconnecting the battery. Your work area should be well-ventilated, with the mower parked on a flat, hard surface. For all maintenance tasks, consult the manual for specifics.
Establishing a Lawn Mower Maintenance Schedule
First, establish a riding lawn mower maintenance schedule. This will be the basis of your maintenance plan, and ensure that you know how often to complete important tasks.
Additionally, this maintenance schedule will help you track the maintenance you perform throughout the year and help you remember when it is time to perform the task again. Separate tasks into several time categories, such as Every Use, Seasonally, Monthly, and Yearly. Organize these however works most efficiently for you.
Here are some maintenance categories to consider when building your maintenance schedule.
Repairing or Replacing Parts
There are many parts that comprise a riding lawn mower, and each needs to be functioning at its best to extend the life of the mower. Make a list of the parts that will need to be routinely checked for repairs or replacement.
Some of the important parts that wear out over time include the bag and chutes, drive belts, blades, muffler, and spark plugs. These should be checked at least a couple of times per season to assess the wear and tear. Not only will this prevent unexpected damage to your mower, but it will enable you to more effectively plan for upcoming part replacements.
Additionally, there are smaller parts like deflectors, shields, and fasteners that can come loose or pop off entirely. If you notice that any of these are missing, replace them or arrange for repairs through an authorized service provider.
Cleaning the Engine & Equipment
Dust and debris can cause serious problems for the engine. You can keep ahead of these cleaning needs by dealing with clippings after every use. However, a deep cleaning is necessary on a regular basis. Deep cleaning means cleaning the engine cooling fins, motor deck, and underneath the motor deck. You will need to remove the deck to properly address these areas.
A dirty air filter is the main result of failure to properly clean the riding lawn mower. When your air filter is dirty, you may notice a decrease in engine performance. This could manifest as a problem with inconsistent power, increased fuel intake, starting problems, or smoke. To prevent these issues, check the air filter after every 25 hours of use.
Fluid Levels
Effectively managing fluid levels and lubrication will keep your riding lawn mower functioning at its best. First and foremost, check the oil level after every use. Perform oil changes as soon as you notice one is needed to prevent serious engine damage. In general, the oil should be change every 50 hours according to riding lawn mower engine experts.
While checking fluid levels, do not forget to also check the tire pressure on your riding lawn mower. Keeping the recommended tire pressure will help your equipment perform better overall and play a noticeable role in the performance of the riding lawn mower.
Consistent maintenance will bring peace of mind. You can tackle the mowing season head-on, knowing that your mower is in excellent condition. Extend the life of your mower while optimizing its output – perform regular maintenance.
