Spring is just around the corner, which means it’s time to wake up your lawn mower from its winter slumber. A well-maintained mower ensures a clean, even cut, extends the life of your equipment, and prevents costly repairs down the road. Don’t wait until peak mowing season to discover a dead battery or a dull blade—follow this step-by-step tune-up checklist to get your mower in top shape before your lawn needs its first cut!
Step 1: Inspect & Clean Your Mower
Winter storage can lead to dust buildup, clogged air filters, and even rodent nests. Before starting any maintenance, do a thorough inspection of your mower:
- Remove any debris, leaves, or grass clippings from under the deck and around the engine.
- Check for any visible cracks, leaks, or loose bolts.
- If applicable, inspect the mower bag for any tears or excessive wear.
Step 2: Change the Oil
Just like a car, your mower’s engine needs clean oil to run efficiently. Old, dirty oil can cause engine wear and overheating.
- Locate the oil drain plug and drain old oil into a proper container.
- Replace it with fresh, manufacturer-recommended oil (typically SAE 30 or 10W-30 for most mowers).
- Check the oil level with the dipstick before sealing it up.
Step 3: Replace or Clean the Air Filter
A clogged air filter can choke the engine, reducing power and efficiency.
- If your mower has a foam filter, wash it with warm, soapy water, let it dry, and lightly oil it before reinstalling.
- If it has a paper filter, replace it with a new one.
Step 4: Sharpen or Replace the Blade
A dull mower blade rips grass instead of cutting it cleanly, leading to brown, unhealthy lawns.
- Remove the blade using a wrench and wear gloves for safety.
- Sharpen the blade with a file, bench grinder, or take it to a professional sharpening service.
- If the blade has cracks or significant wear, replace it with a new one.
Step 5: Check the Spark Plug
A faulty spark plug can prevent your mower from starting.
- Remove the spark plug and inspect it for corrosion or damage.
- If it looks worn out, replace it with a new one (they’re inexpensive and easy to swap).
- If reusing the old one, clean it with a wire brush before reinserting.
Step 6: Test the Battery (For Electric & Riding Mowers)
If your mower is battery-powered or a riding mower, check the battery to ensure it holds a charge.
- Use a multimeter to test voltage (should be 12V for most riding mowers).
- If the battery is weak, recharge or replace it.
- Clean the battery terminals to remove any corrosion.
Step 7: Inspect the Belts & Cables
Loose or frayed belts can affect performance and lead to sudden breakdowns.
- Check the drive belts for cracks or excessive wear.
- Ensure throttle and drive cables move freely without sticking.
- Tighten any loose connections.
Step 8: Fill Up with Fresh Fuel
Old gas left in the tank from last season can cause starting issues and engine damage.
- Drain any leftover fuel from last year and replace it with fresh, ethanol-free gasoline.
- Add a fuel stabilizer to keep gas fresh longer.
Step 9: Check the Wheels & Adjust the Height
Proper wheel alignment ensures an even cut across your lawn.
- Inspect tires for low pressure (for riding mowers) or damage.
- Adjust the cutting height for the best results based on your grass type.
Final Step: Start It Up & Test Run
Once everything is checked and replaced, fire up the mower for a quick test run. Listen for unusual noises, check for smooth operation, and make sure the blades engage properly.
Your mower is now tuned up and ready for the season. By staying ahead of maintenance, you’ll enjoy a hassle-free mowing experience while keeping your lawn looking its best.
Need Professional Help?
If you’re unsure about performing any of these tune-up steps, Suburban Lawn & Equipment offers expert maintenance and repair services to get your mower running like new. Visit us today or call for an appointment!
With over 40 years in business, we are your one stop shop for all your outdoor power equipment. Our product lineup has a variety of new equipment from top brands including Toro, Cub Cadet, Stihl, Exmark, Honda Mowers, Honda Snow blowers, Honda Generators, Echo, Hustler Turf, Walker Mowers, Troy Bilt, Scag, Boss Snowrator & Boss Snowplows. We’ll always have something to meet your needs and budget.