Gasoline Lawnmower Maintenance

Gasoline powered lawnmowers have a reputation for being hard working, powerful lawn tools. With the proper maintenance, your mower will last many years. Many people do not understand the upkeep that is necessary for a healthy mower. Lubrication and sharp blades are just two things that need to be tended to. In all actuality, the maintenance is not that difficult and can be learned by most people. You’ll need to know what to pick up from your local hardware store when you make a new mower purchase. Having the right supplies close at hand can dissuade you from putting off the work that needs to be done.

When you get the mower out of the box, the first thing you need to do is add oil. If a sample canister did not come in the box, read the manual to find out which type of oil you need. It is very important that the proper small engine oil is added to properly lubricate the crankshaft and pistons. Oil is added in two ways. If your mower has an oil cap, unscrew it and add oil directly into it. The oil cap should have a small dipstick which you can confirm you put enough in. Do not over or under fill the oil reservoir. Over time, the oil level will drop and become discolored. At this point it will be time to add new oil. If the mower does not have a dedicated oil container, you will need to mix a ratio of oil to gasoline and pour the mixture into the gas tank. The proper ratio will be designated in your manual.
Over time the mower blades will dull. It is important to sharpen the blades periodically as needed. This can be done at home with a sharpening tool. You can also have it professionally sharpened for best results. A sharpened blade will cut through grass easier and will be more efficient. You’ll get a clean cut and the mower will not have to work as hard.

All mowers have an air filter which pulls oxygen into the carburetor to be used in combustion. This filter will get dirty over time and need to be replaced. These filters generally last quite a long time. If you work in a particularly dusty environment, then it may wear quicker. Another part that will degrade over time is the fuel lines and primer bulb. Replacements can be found at the hardware store and are relatively cheap. You’ll know when you need a replacement because the line will become crumbly, the mower might be hard to start because of lost air pressure, or gas might be leaking out.

Learning about proper lawn care does not have to be hard. Learn more about it by visiting my guide on the outdoor home.