How to Properly Winterize Your Lawn Mower for Storage

Learning how to properly winterize your lawn mower for extended storage can prevent starting issues next spring. If you live in a place with a long winter, paying attention to how you store your mower is crucial. Following the simple guidelines below can save you time and money when it's time to fire it up for the next cutting season. As we've mentioned before, most small engine repair calls stem from improper storage and gasoline use. By being aware of this, you can avoid many common pitfalls.

Always store your lawn mower indoors, in a dry, clean place

Managing Your Gasoline

By properly managing your fuel, you can avoid many, if not most, of the common lawn mower starting issues many experience

Buying gasoline in bulk may seem convenient, but it can lead to maintenance headaches. Gas stored in your garage during the summer breaks down faster due to heat. Additionally, gasoline at the pump contains ethanol. When left in your mower's fuel tank for more than 30 days, it forms a varnish that clogs vital openings in the fuel tank, fuel line, and carburetor. It also undergoes 'phase separation,' where water accumulates in the gas tank, creating layers of water within the gasoline. If your mower starts under these conditions, it won't run well.

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To avoid most small engine issues, buy just enough gas to last for two mowing sessions. Anticipate your last mowing session and run the machine dry during that time. If that’s not practical, consider adding a fuel stabilizer. If you plan to tip the unit, place plastic wrap under the fuel fill cap before closing it to prevent spillage.

Drain the Lawn Mower's Crankcase of Engine Oil

Now that your mower's oil is warmed up from the last mow, drain it by removing the drain plug or tilting the machine to drain it out of the dipstick tube. If your hands will be near the cutting blade, disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental startup. Dispose of used engine oil using local, environmentally safe methods. Label the unit "No Oil" to avoid accidental startup next season.

Clean the Grass Catcher and Mower

If your mower has a grass catcher bag, clean it of any clippings and hang it in a dry spot. Next, clean the mower of grass cuttings, dirt, and mud. If needed, remove the engine cover to clean the flywheel's cooling fins and the engine cylinder head's cooling fins. Although this is a good practice throughout the cutting season, it’s especially important at the end. Clean underneath the deck to remove grass buildup and clippings. Use a small putty knife, but be careful not to gouge the metal underside. Apply grease to the cutting blade to prevent rust.

Lubricating Engine Internals

Remove the spark plug from the cylinder head using a spark plug socket. Check that the piston is at the bottom of its travel. Squirt several drops of clean engine oil into the spark plug hole using an oil can. Then, slowly pull the start rope to distribute the oil on the cylinder walls and piston. Reinstall the spark plug by hand, then use a socket and ratchet to torque it to spec as outlined in the engine service manual. Don’t over-tighten! Keep the spark plug wire disconnected (remember to reconnect it when you plan to use the machine next season). Pull the handle until you feel resistance, then pull slightly past this point to close the valves, sealing the engine and preventing moisture from entering.

Lubricating Control Cables

Spray some silicone-based lubricant into the control cable opening. Work this lubricant throughout the wire by engaging the bar or handles. This prevents the metal cables from seizing. Remember, these cables can’t be repaired, only replaced if they seize completely.

Look to spray silicone based lubricant into the areas highlighted with the green arrows

Setting Operator Controls for Storage

If your mower is equipped, turn the throttle lever off and close the choke. This helps seal the carburetor and engine intake for storage.

Proper Storage Location for Your Lawn Mower

Always store your lawn mower in a clean, dry place, out of the elements.

Conclusion: Keep Your Mower Ready for Spring!

Winterizing your lawn mower is essential for ensuring it runs smoothly when spring arrives. By following these steps, you can prevent common issues and save yourself from costly repairs. Remember, a little effort now can lead to a hassle-free mowing experience later!

Never the Norm!