If you're a DIYer or a home owner who wants to keep your lawn looking neat and tidy, you need to take good care of your lawn mower and line trimmer. These tools are essential for cutting grass, trimming edges, and removing weeds, but they can also wear out or break down if you neglect them. In this blog post, I'll share some tips on how to maintain your lawn mower and line trimmer like a professional lawn maintenance person who is trying to help regular home owners who don't know anything about lawn mowers and probably own a very cheap lawn mower.
Lawn Mower Maintenance
Your lawn mower is the workhorse of your lawn care routine, so you want to make sure it's always in top shape. Here are some things you should do regularly to keep your lawn mower running smoothly:
- Check the oil level before each use and change it every 50 hours of operation or once a year, whichever comes first. Use the right type of oil for your engine and follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to drain and refill it.
- Clean the air filter every 25 hours of operation or more often if you mow in dusty conditions. A dirty air filter can reduce the engine's performance and increase fuel consumption. To clean the air filter, remove it from the mower and tap it gently to remove any loose dirt. If it's very dirty, wash it with warm water and mild soap, then let it dry completely before reinstalling it.
- Sharpen the blade every 25 hours of operation or whenever you notice signs of dullness, such as uneven cuts, ragged grass tips, or increased vibration. A sharp blade will cut the grass cleanly and efficiently, reducing stress on the engine and improving the appearance of your lawn. To sharpen the blade, remove it from the mower and use a file, a grinder, or a sharpening stone to restore its edge. Make sure the blade is balanced before putting it back on the mower.
- Clean the deck after each use to prevent grass clippings from accumulating and clogging the discharge chute. A clogged chute can cause the mower to overheat or stall, and can also pose a fire hazard. To clean the deck, turn off the mower and disconnect the spark plug wire. Then, use a scraper, a brush, or a hose to remove any debris from the underside of the deck. Be careful not to damage the blade or any other parts while cleaning.
- Store the mower in a dry and ventilated place when not in use. Avoid leaving it outdoors or in damp conditions, as this can cause rust and corrosion. Also, avoid storing it with fuel in the tank, as this can degrade the fuel quality and damage the engine. If you're not going to use the mower for more than 30 days, drain the fuel from the tank and run the engine until it stops. This will prevent gumming and varnishing of the carburetor and fuel lines.
Line Trimmer Maintenance
Your line trimmer is a handy tool for trimming hard-to-reach areas of your lawn, such as around trees, fences, and flower beds. But like any other tool, it needs some TLC to keep it working well. Here are some things you should do regularly to maintain your line trimmer:
- Check the spark plug every 25 hours of operation or once a year, whichever comes first. A worn or dirty spark plug can cause poor ignition, reduced power, or hard starting. To check the spark plug, remove it from the trimmer and inspect its electrode for signs of wear, corrosion, or carbon deposits. If necessary, replace it with a new one that matches the specifications of your trimmer.
- Clean or replace the fuel filter every 50 hours of operation or once a year, whichever comes first. A clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow and cause poor performance or engine failure. To clean or replace the fuel filter, locate it inside the fuel tank and pull it out with a pair of pliers or tweezers. If it's dirty, rinse it with fresh gasoline and squeeze it dry. If it's damaged or worn out, replace it with a new one.
- Replace the trimmer line when it becomes too short or brittle to cut effectively. The trimmer line is made of nylon or plastic that wears out over time due to friction and exposure to sunlight. To replace the trimmer line, remove the spool from the trimmer head and wind a new line around it following the arrows on the spool. Make sure to leave some slack at both ends of the line for easy feeding through the eyelets on the trimmer head.
- Lubricate the gearbox every 25 hours of operation or once a year, whichever comes first. The gearbox is located at the end of the shaft where it connects to the cutting head. It contains gears that transfer power from the engine to the trimmer line. To lubricate the gearbox, remove the cap on the side of the gearbox and fill it with grease until it reaches the level mark. Then, replace the cap and wipe off any excess grease.
- Store the trimmer in a dry and ventilated place when not in use. Avoid leaving it outdoors or in damp conditions, as this can cause rust and corrosion. Also, avoid storing it with fuel in the tank, as this can degrade the fuel quality and damage the engine. If you're not going to use the trimmer for more than 30 days, drain the fuel from the tank and run the engine until it stops. This will prevent gumming and varnishing of the carburetor and fuel lines.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your lawn mower and line trimmer in good condition and extend their lifespan. You'll also save money on repairs and replacements, and enjoy a better lawn care experience. Happy mowing and trimming!
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