How To Service A Petrol Lawnmower
Last Updated on July 18, 2024
Petrol mowers are the best tools to maintain a medium to the large-sized garden. Such machines are more powerful when compared to electric versions. Moreover, there are no constraints of a connecting cable. Plus, you don’t have to stop anywhere only because the battery is discharged.
However, petrol-propelled mowers require regular maintenance because these units involve multiple mechanisms to operate. We suggest that you follow the included manual to check the mower’s functionality and maintenance process. Plus, always use genuine replacement parts. Let’s discuss the steps you need to follow while servicing a lawn mowing machine.
Table of Content
How To Service A Petrol Lawnmower
Check fuel and oil level
The first step is to check the fuel level and refill the tank with fresh fuel. Do not use anything that’s more than three months old. Old petrol will work, but it will not give you optimum results. Plus, expired fuel is not good for your lawn mowing machine.
If you need to store the mower’s fuel, use a plastic container and keep it inside a dry and cool place. Ignore metal or tin containers because they rust over time and reduces fuel efficiency. Plus, apply a stabilizer to extend the petrol’s life for up to 3 years.
Similar to your car, a mower’s engine needs oil to operate. First, check its level by using the given oil dipstick. You should also inspect the oil and check its quality. If it’s discoloured or you see some debris, then change the oil. For instance, if the liquid appears charcoal, it’s not beneficial for the engine anymore. So, drain the oil and refill it.
Oil draining is an easy process. Take out the drain plug and let the oil drip into a cup. Don’t leave even a single drop of fluid inside your mower. If your mower lacks a drain plug, then you need to tilt it sideways to get rid of the existing fluid. Always tilt a mower with its carburettor facing the sky.
Clean or change the air filters
An air filter deals with all the dust and debris that are generated during lawn mowing sessions. A healthy filter stops all these dirt particles from entering the carburettor and engine. So, if this component is dirty or clogged, then many unwanted particles can enter your mower.
You will find three air filters in the market; paper, foam, and hybrid (comprises both paper and foam filters). Paper filters need to be replaced, but you can clean and reuse the foam and combinations, depending upon the mower’s made and model.
You will find the filter on the top of the mower’s engine. It is generally enclosed in a metal or plastic cover secured by a snap-fit or some screws. You need to take out the filter by removing all the screws and then clean or replace the filter according to its condition.
Check the spark plug
A spark plug ensures that the mower starts quickly without creating any problems. It stops the engine from overheating, stalling, and misfiring. In other words, this plug is one of the most important parts of your mower, and it should be replaced after every 12 months or as recommended by the user’s manual. You can replace this part very easily, even if you are a beginner.
You might need a socket wrench for this step. First, check the manual and see what the right tool to remove the spark plug is. You don’t have to apply extra force because it will come out easily. Clean the plug if it’s dirty. Replace if the component is corroded or non-functional.
Clean the carburettor
A clogged carburettor is one of the common reasons why your mower is not performing properly. So, unscrew this part using a screwdriver and spray WD-40 lubricant to clean it. Use a brush to get rid of all the accumulations. You will also need compressed air to clear any internal obstructions.
Final talk
Follow the steps mentioned above to maintain a lawnmower and ensure that it will remain in good shape for many more years to come. A tip-top mower also means that you will enjoy perfectly cut grasses and an attractive lawn. If any of the actions seems tough, then you can contact a professional. However, you can also learn how to service a petrol lawn mower and take its care without external help.
