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Close-up of a man changing lawn mower spark plug.

Get Your Lawn Mower Ready for Winter

January 31, 2024 | Maintenance | By: Southside Equipment Co.

Close-up of a man changing lawn mower spark plug.When the annual mowing season comes to a close, you should take steps to prepare your lawn mower for winter storage. Winterization is necessary to ensure a smooth and successful start to the next mowing season. Not sure how to winterize your lawn mower? This guide from Southside Equipment Co. covers all the basics. If you need assistance with lawn mower maintenance, we invite you to contact our service department.

Disconnect the Spark Plug

First things first, remember to disconnect the spark plug before performing maintenance on your lawn mower. This will prevent any accidental startups during the winterization process.

Drain or Stabilize the Fuel

Old, expired gasoline can wreak havoc on your lawn mower’s engine and fuel system, causing unnecessary wear and tear. To avoid letting the gasoline expire over the winter, you can either drain the fuel system completely or add a fuel stabilizer to keep the gasoline fresh.

Remove and Inspect the Blade

Removing the blade from your lawn mower will give you access to the undercarriage, allowing you to clean off any grass clippings or debris trapped under the blade. It also gives you the opportunity to inspect the blade for damage. If the blade is dull, this is a good time to sharpen it. If the blade is warped, chipped, or otherwise damaged, it will need to be replaced.

Clean or Replace the Air Filter

If your mower has a paper air filter, simply replace it with a fresh filter before putting it in storage. If your mower has an oil-saturated sponge filter, you will need to clean it with soap and water. While checking the air filter, take the time to inspect the cooling fins and clean them as needed. You can remove debris from the cooling fins with a flathead screwdriver.

Clean the Exterior

Finally, make sure to thoroughly clean the exterior of your mower before storing it. You can use a wire brush or a putty knife to remove any stubborn debris from the deck and undercarriage. Pay close attention to nooks and crevices that can hide dirt, and remember to clear the discharge chute. Taking these steps will protect your mower from corrosion.

If you have any questions about lawn mower winterization, you are always welcome to consult the team here at Southside Equipment Co. We are pleased to support our customers in maintaining their equipment. You can find us in Milledgeville, GA, near Macon.