Winter storage of mowers and other garden equipment

The fuel tank should be emptied before winter, because fuel loses its combustion properties during long standing. So the petrol left in the tank may by spring be so settled that starting problems arise in spring. If some fuel is still left in the tank after the last autumn mowing, it is advisable to leave the lawn mower running until it dies from running out of fuel. You can also pour the tank out beforehand and then let the mower run itself dry.

Check the oil level

It is also important to check the engine oil level before winter, but unlike fuel, the oil level should be at maximum in the engine (check with the dipstick). This is because the machine should retain its full working capacity at all times. If necessary, an oil change should also be done (depending on the operating hours and the time of the last oil change – at least once a year!) or take the mower to the nearest authorised dealer to have the oil changed. In any case, for checking, topping up and changing the oil, you must follow the instructions given in the user manual of the device and use quality engine oil recommended by the manufacturer.

Clean the machine

After the last mowing, the mower must also be thoroughly cleaned. Mowing residues stuck to the cutting deck should be removed with a wooden or plastic scraper. It should also be checked that there are no mowing residues between the engine cooling fins and around the muffler. Clean the mower with a brush and water; a garden hose can also be used.

CAUTION! Do not aim a strong jet of water directly at bearings, seals or engine parts, as it may damage those components.

To clean the cutting unit from underneath, tilt the machine backwards so that the spark plug is at the top. If the machine is tilted on its side, engine oil may get into the air filter or muffler and damage them, and the machine will also start to smoke on the next start-up due to oil burning in the muffler.

Final check

Check that the mower blade is undamaged (this can also be done before the first mowing in spring). If the blade has cracks or nicks, the blade of the cutting unit must be replaced, preferably by an authorised dealer. When changing the blade, it is also important to check the condition of the blade fastenings, replace the spring washer and fasten the blade with a specific torque; the dealer has special tools and knowledge for this. If the blade is fastened too tightly, then in the event of an impact the impact-protection adapters may not help and either the crankshaft or the blade-boss shaft may be damaged. Otherwise it is advisable simply to sharpen the blade or have it done at the dealer, where the blade is also balanced. It is advisable to sharpen and, if necessary, balance the blade every 25 operating hours to ensure the best mowing power and result of the mower.

Correct storage

When all maintenance and cleaning work has been done, the lawn mower should be placed under a cover in a dust-free and dry place. The storage position is the normal working position (on the wheels, the handle can be folded). If necessary, the mower can also be stood upright on its rear end to save space, but in that case, firstly, the mower must not be started immediately in spring, but left to stand for a few hours first so that the oil flows back to the right place. Also, in that case the mower blade must be covered so that it does not cause injuries. NB! Devices with a starter and battery should be stored above freezing temperature.

CAUTION! Even during temporary storage of the machine, children should not have easy access to the mower — risk of injury!

Finally: not all cutting units necessarily have to be put away somewhere for the winter! With practical accessories, cutting units can be turned into a handy helper in winter too, for example by fitting a snow plough to the lawn tractor.

Allikas: https://www.farron.ee/blog/talvine_hoiustamine/