Keep Your Mower Running Smoothly

We’re going to take a guess and say you didn’t read the owners manual when you bought your lawn mower, and that you’ve probably thrown it out or misplaced it by now.

Considering your lawn mower is most likely your most used piece of outdoor equipment, here are some tips for keeping your lawn mower running smoother, longer.

Sharpen your mower blade. A sharp blade will cut grass cleanly, instead of tearing it. If your grass is looking frayed, it’s probably time to bring your mower into Kooy Brothers so we can sharpen your blade. The frequency of blade maintenance depends on the size of your yard and how often you are mowing. A homeowner cutting a mid-size yard all summer long should consider blade sharpening yearly. If you find yourself running over pinecones or other yard debris, you are more likely to be dulling you blade quicker so multiple sharpenings would be ideal in this scenario.

Keep a clean deck. Clumps of grass can sometimes get stuck against your mower deck and blade. To avoid rust, make sure you clean your mower when you’re done cutting your grass and your mower is turned off. Most new mowers are equipped with washout ports, allowing you to attach the garden hose directly to the mower for quick, easy grass removal.

Drain your gas. Old gas is one of the most common reasons a mower won’t start at the beginning of the mowing season. To avoid this, at the end of the mowing season, make sure to use all the remaining gas or drain the gas appropriately. Ensuring when you’re ready to use your mower again in the spring, you use new premium gasoline.  

Clean your filter. The air filter prevents dirt from entering the carburetor and engine. You want to make sure your air filter is clean so it can do its job. Paper air filters need to be replaced, while foam filters can be cleaned with a small amount of water and detergent, then re-entered into your mower once it’s dry. Find your filter online and ship it right to your door!

Change your spark plug. Like your air filter, the spark plug is essential to a functioning lawn mower, yet inexpensive and easy to replace. Change your spark plug every year to ensure an easy start. Find your spark plug in the parts section on our website and ship it right to your door!

Check your oil. The right amount of clean oil in your mower is important, just as important as it is in your car. Monitor the oil level in your mower, and look for floating debris or oil that appears dark black in color.

Need assistance with lawn mower maintenance? Bring it in to Kooy Brothers and let one of our professionals give your mower a full tune-up!