Scott DeMoss
SunSouth
With spring around the corner now is a great time to get your lawn equipment ready for the year. One of the most over looked areas of any mower is the underside of the mower deck. Raise and properly support the machine and look under the deck. Many times, grass clippings and debris will build up under the mower deck preventing proper air flow and dramatically affecting the quality of the cut. While you are in the vicinity, now is a good time to check the blades for wear and how sharp they are. A sharp blade will provide a clean cut of the grass promoting a healthier lawn.
The top of the deck can also build up debris under the guards and shields. Remove them and clean around the pulleys- be sure to properly reinstall them as they help to keep the belt on the pulleys and protect you. When cleaning the top of the deck be sure to grease the blade spindles.
Proper tire pressure is essential to an evenly mowed lawn. The deck is designed to be supported by the mower, not have the deck wheels run on the ground.
Change your engine air filter at least once a year and more frequently in dusty or dry conditions.
Spark plugs should be replaced annually, but make sure and set the proper gap on the plugs- refer to your owner’s manual for the specification for your model.
Remember to store your fuel with a sealed cap to prevent water from entering the fuel. Water in the fuel or dirty fuel is the most common issue in lawn equipment every year. Speaking of fuel… also change your fuel filter to start the year off right.
Finally, make sure to change the oil and oil filter. During the normal combustion process, fuel is added to the oil as engines run, which dilutes the oil and prevents it from protecting the engine. Your oil and oil filter should be changed at least annually. So machines may need it more frequently than that depending on hours of use. Refer to your owner’s manual for your specific model’s requirements. Most of the above items are available at your local SunSouth today in one easy kit- the home maintenance kit. This kit is 15% off now through April 1st. The kit includes engine oil and filter, spark plugs, fuel filter and, air filters.
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