WINTERIZING LAWN POWER TOOLS

Preparing your lawn power tools for the upcoming cold weather is crucial. Winterizing your tools is essential to maintain their longevity and ensure optimal performance when spring arrives. Following the Ultimate Winterization Checklist will help you protect your tools' vital components and extend their value so they keep working for you.

WINTER IS COMING

The arrival of Winter need not be frightful if you are ready. Harsh winter conditions – regardless of how cold it gets where you are – can impact the delicate components of your equipment. Freezing temperatures can

• Solidify fuel in the carburetor and fuel lines.
  • Expanding lines can lead to clogs and damage.
• Moisture trapped in the engine can cause rust and corrosion.

THE ULTIMATE WINTERIZE CHECKLIST

Step 1 - Clean and Inspect the Tool.

Preparing your tool for Winter should start with cleaning. Dirt, grass clippings, and debris on the exterior and undercarriage must always be kept clean, especially when preparing a machine for cleaning.

A brush or compressed air to clean hard-to-reach areas is an excellent way to get the big stuff.

Inspecting the blade for any signs of damage or dullness is essential for optimal performance. This will allow you to replace them and have the tool ready at the start the next time you need it – regardless of when this happens.

The air filter will need to be cleaned or replaced. This step will keep your machine operating at peak performance and prevent any potential damage from becoming out of shape.

Ensure that all nuts, bolts, and fasteners are securely tightened. Pro Tip: Apply lubricants like WD-40 to prepare fasteners for their subsequent use. (WD stands for water displacement.)

Step 2 - Replace Your Tools' Oil and Spark Plugs.

Fresh oil is crucial for the smooth operation of your lawn mower. Draining the oil and replacing a machine’s spark plugs will keep your engine running when it is needed in the next season. (Please dispose of waste oil according to your local regulations.)

Step 3 - Draining and Stabilizing the Fuel.

It is essential to drain tools’ fuel tanks before Winter storage to prevent it from deteriorating and causing issues in the carburetor. You can also add a fuel stabilizer to the tank according to the manufacturer’s instructions to protect its engine.

Step 4 - Removing and Storing the Battery.

It is crucial to remove your tools’ batteries before Winter Storage. Here is a process to do this:

• Disconnect the cable attached to the battery’s negative and then the positive terminal.
• Clean the terminals and cables using a wire brush and a mixture of baking soda and water.
• Store the battery in a cool, dry place away from flammable materials.
• Please charge the battery regularly during the Winter months to maintain its performance.

Step 5 - Protecting the Engine and Other Valuable Parts.

Applying a thin coat of oil to the engine and other metallic parts will protect it from moisture and corrosion. This can be done using a cloth or spray to apply the oil to the motor, blade, and other exposed metal surfaces. Consider shielding equipment from the elements by covering them with a breathable tarp or specially designed cover.

Step 6 - A Proper Place.

The correct location for your mower and other power tools is a clean, dry, and well-ventilated area. Elevating a mower will protect it from flat spots on the tires. Ensure that it is away from any potential ignition sources and is not accessible to children and pets.

Pro Tip: Removing the mower deck during winterization will help clean it. This will allow for cleaning the deck, inspecting the belts and pulleys, and allowing their replacement. All worn parts can be replaced and made ready for next season.

CONCLUSION

Following the Ultimate Winterization Checklist will help you maximize your investment in your power tools. This ensures a longer lifespan for your tools and provides a beautifully maintained yard when Spring arrives.

Tractor Bob is committed to helping buyers find the right solution for their power equipment needs. You can also learn more about using your power equipment on this site.

Reach out to one of Tractor Bob’s product experts to select a machine that fits your needs.