Hey there! As a supplier of self - propelled lawn mowers, I've seen a lot of folks scratching their heads about how to store these babies during the winter. You see, winter isn't exactly the best time for your lawn mower to be out in the open. It can cause all sorts of problems like rust, engine damage, and other issues that'll make your mower act up when spring rolls around. So, let's dive into the best way to store a self - propelled lawn mower in winter.
First things first, you gotta give your lawn mower a good cleaning. After a long season of mowing, there's probably a ton of grass clippings, dirt, and debris stuck all over it. Start by removing any large chunks of grass and dirt from the cutting deck, wheels, and the engine area. You can use a brush or a putty knife to get rid of the stubborn stuff.
Next, use a hose to spray down the mower. Make sure you get into all the nooks and crannies. But be careful not to get water directly into the engine or the electrical components. If your mower has a bagging system, take it off and clean it separately. A dirty mower can attract moisture, which is a recipe for rust. And trust me, you don't want rust on your 173cc 21 - in Gas Self - propelled Reel Lawn Mower or any other model.
Once your mower is clean, it's time to drain the fuel. Gasoline can break down over time, especially in cold temperatures. The breakdown can cause gum and varnish to form in the fuel system, which can clog the carburetor and other parts. You can either run the mower until the tank is empty or siphon the fuel out using a siphon pump.
If you choose to siphon the fuel, make sure you store it in a proper fuel container. And don't forget to add a fuel stabilizer to the remaining fuel in the container. This will help keep the fuel fresh for when you need it next season.
Now, let's talk about the oil. Just like the fuel, the oil in your mower can also break down over the winter. It's a good idea to change the oil before storing the mower. This will remove any dirt, debris, and contaminants that have built up in the oil during the mowing season.
To change the oil, first, warm up the engine for a few minutes. This will make the oil thinner and easier to drain. Then, place an oil drain pan under the oil drain plug and remove the plug. Let the oil drain completely. After that, replace the drain plug and add fresh oil according to the manufacturer's specifications.
Another important step is to lubricate the moving parts. Over time, the lubrication on the mower's moving parts can dry up, causing increased friction and wear. Use a good quality lubricant to grease the wheels, axles, and any other moving parts. This will help keep them in good condition and prevent rust.
Now, it's time to protect the cutting blade. The blade is one of the most important parts of your mower, and you want to make sure it stays sharp and rust - free. You can use a blade protector or a piece of cardboard to cover the blade. This will prevent it from getting damaged during storage.
If your mower has a battery, remove it. Cold temperatures can reduce the battery's lifespan. Store the battery in a cool, dry place and charge it every few months to keep it in good condition.
When it comes to storing the mower, choose a dry and protected place. A garage or a shed is ideal. If you don't have a garage or a shed, you can use a mower cover. Make sure the cover is waterproof and breathable. This will protect the mower from the elements while allowing air to circulate.
It's also a good idea to store the mower off the ground. You can use a mower stand or place it on a piece of wood. This will prevent moisture from seeping into the mower from the ground.
Now, let's talk about some additional tips. If you have a Craftsman Store 163cc 22 - in Gas Self - propelled Lawn Mower or any other model with a self - propelled system, check the drive belt and the transmission. Make sure they're in good condition and lubricated.
Before you put the mower away for the winter, start it up and let it run for a few minutes. This will circulate the fresh oil and fuel through the engine and help prevent any parts from sticking.
In conclusion, proper winter storage of your self - propelled lawn mower is crucial to keep it in good working condition. By following these steps, you'll ensure that your mower is ready to go when spring arrives.
If you're in the market for a new self - propelled lawn mower or have any questions about storage or maintenance, feel free to reach out. We're here to help you make the best choice for your lawn care needs. Let's get your lawn looking great next season!
References:
- Lawn Care 101: A Guide to Maintaining Your Lawn Mower
- Manufacturer's Manuals for Self - Propelled Lawn Mowers