
How to Clean a Gasoline Lawn Mower in a Few Steps?
To mow your lawn with ease and efficiency, the gasoline lawn mower is a powerful tool. But of course, you want to maintain its performance and longevity. This involves two types of maintenance: after each mowing and a thorough spring cleaning. Indeed, the engine, blades, and wheels of your mower are loaded with grass clippings, accumulated dirt, and moisture. Here are some step-by-step tips to keep your gasoline lawn mower in good condition and protect it.
Regular Maintenance of a Gasoline Lawn Mower After Each Mowing
The "classic" maintenance of your gasoline lawn mower should be done after each use to preserve your equipment and optimize its performance. Thus, from one mowing to the next, you will avoid certain breakdowns. Here are the simple steps to follow:
- Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire.
- Carefully remove the blade.
- Remove debris that has accumulated under the deck using a brush or scraper.
- Reinstall the blade.
- Clean around the engine.
- Clean the air filter by tapping it or blowing it with a compressor.
- Dust the spark plug with a wire brush.
- Clean the wheels.
Cleaning Before Winter Storage
When the mowing season is over, you need to store your gasoline lawn mower for the winter. But before putting it to rest, clean it thoroughly to prepare it for the next season. This will also protect it from frost, rust, and rodents:
- Empty the fuel tank. To do this, run the engine until it stops. You can also use a siphon or funnel. Note that fuel degrades over time and can damage the engine or carburetor. In this regard, use alkylate gasoline, which, in addition to being less harmful to the environment, offers optimized performance, protects your engine, and ensures starting in all circumstances.
- Clean the carburetor by disassembling the bowl and float. A clean carburetor allows the engine to run smoothly without stalling.
- Clean the engine with a cloth or degreaser. Then spray a lubricant on the metal parts to prevent corrosion.
- Clean the deck with a high-pressure jet to remove grass and mud residues.
- Sharpen the blade.
- Remove the wheels for thorough cleaning.
- If you do not have the mulching function, scrub the collection bag.
- Store your lawn mower for the winter in a dry place and protected from frost.
Note: Even if your gasoline lawn mower has a self-cleaning system, a thorough cleaning before winter is essential.
By following these steps, you extend the life of your lawn mower and ensure it will work properly in the spring. Also, remember to consult your lawn mower's user manual for precautions before any cleaning.