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As the leaves begin to fall and temperatures drop, it’s essential to prepare your garden and lawn for the upcoming winter months. One of the most important tools in your fall maintenance arsenal is your riding mower. Properly caring for your mower now can extend its lifespan and ensure a healthy, vibrant lawn when spring returns.
Why Fall Maintenance Matters
Performing maintenance on your riding mower in the fall helps prevent issues caused by winter storage and ensures the equipment is ready for use in the spring. It also reduces the risk of rust, corrosion, and mechanical failures that can occur if the mower is neglected during the off-season.
Steps for Preparing Your Riding Mower for Winter
- Clean the mower: Remove grass clippings, dirt, and debris from the deck, blades, and engine area.
- Change the oil: Drain the old oil and replace it with fresh oil suitable for your mower model.
- Replace or sharpen blades: Ensure blades are sharp for the next season or replace them if they are worn out.
- Check the fuel system: Add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from degrading during storage. Run the mower for a few minutes to distribute the stabilizer.
- Inspect the spark plug: Remove, clean, or replace the spark plug as needed.
- Lubricate moving parts: Apply lubricant to wheels, joints, and other moving components.
- Store properly: Store the mower in a dry, sheltered location. Consider covering it with a protective cover to shield it from dust and moisture.
Additional Tips for a Successful Winter Storage
Proper storage is key to maintaining your riding mower’s performance. If possible, elevate the mower to prevent tires from developing flat spots. Disconnect the battery if you plan to store the mower for an extended period, and consider using a battery maintainer to keep it charged.
Safety Precautions
Always follow safety guidelines when performing maintenance. Wear gloves and eye protection, and ensure the mower is turned off and cooled down before starting work. Keep children and pets away from the area during maintenance procedures.
Conclusion
Taking the time to properly maintain your riding mower in the fall will pay off in the long run. It helps protect your investment, ensures safety, and prepares your equipment for a smooth start in the spring. With these simple steps, you can enjoy a well-kept garden year after year.