Any and all machines experience problems at some point. Whether it’s a cosmetic issue, problems with performance, or a dead battery, at some point you’re going to have to fix something on your mower. Here are 5 quick tips that will help maintain your machine and maximize its re-sale value.
- Keep your mower clean
- Wet grass, dried-on grass, pollen, dirt, and grime can take a toll on your mower’s deck, seat, and overall exterior. Using a leaf blower or air nozzle to dry-clean your mower after each use can help remove the grass and dirt before it sticks to the machine. Regularly washing your mower can help prevent stained seats, rusted decks, and damaged paint. Finally, occasionally applying a coat of WD-40 to your machine can help fight rust.
- Keep your mower covered
- When its not in use, keep your mower in a garage, shed, or under a tarp. The weather and elements can cause plastic to fade, negatively impact the function of your machine, and lead to the deterioration of your mower’s appearance. If you can find a way to keep it out of the elements, its certainly worth the effort.
- Maintain the fuel system
- Old fuel can be harmful to the fuel system of a mower, especially the carburetor. Some mechanics recommend running the mower out of fuel before storing it for the winter. You can also use fuel stabilizing additives such as Seafoam to help maintain the fuel system. Regardless of which strategy you choose, its always best to use premium fuel for your machine.
- Change the oil, filters, and lubricate as recommended
- Change the oil and oil filter at least once a year or every 50 hours (or as recommended in the manual). Check the oil level regularly to ensure the motor has the right amount such as before each use. Your mower may also have several grease zerks, usually found on the deck spindles and around the wheels. Be sure to regularly grease these to keep these parts working properly. Finally, check your air filter and fuel filter to ensure they’re clean. Both items are typically cheap and easy to replace.
- Keep the tires aired up
- Sometimes a slow leak isn’t quite concerning enough to take the tire off and into a shop to get repaired. Afterall, it only takes a few seconds to air it up before you mow next time around. However, if a tire is allowed to go flat over the winter and stays that way all winter long, the tire could be ruined and cost you a new tire next mowing season. To keep from ruining tires, be sure that even tires with slow leaks are aired up, or, better yet, get that leak repaired!
Following these tips doesn’t take much time but makes a world of difference in keeping your mower in tip top shape. Do you have any other useful tips? Let us know at richlandcreekholdings@gmail.com.