As mowing season winds down and it’s time to store your mower, you’ll need to take the time to complete some basic fall mower maintenance called “winterizing.” Winterizing your Exmark mower will protect your investment.
Winterizing Steps
- Clean
Cleaning is the most important step in fall mower maintenance. Clumps of grass clippings, leaf mulch, or mud holds moisture against the metal and can cause rust that weakens the metal of your mower. Spray and scrub the mower deck to remove any organic matter. Be sure to wipe it down well to dry it off after. - Maintain
After cleaning, you’ll want to change the oil and filters. Use your grease gun to lubricate friction points. Be sure to drain the fuel tank from smaller, walk behinds as fuel can degrade over time. For larger mowers, top off the tank and consider adding a fuel stabilizer designed for winter storage. A full tank will help prevent condensation. - Check the Tires
Before you put your mower up for the season, check the tires. You’ll want to be sure they’re inflated to their proper pressure to protect them. Park your mower on cardboard or other insulating material to protect pneumatic tires from cold concrete. - Keep Up
You might want to start your mower periodically during the winter. If that’s not possible, it’s best to remove and store the battery in a cool, dry place. Just be sure to recharge it fully before starting the mower in the spring.
How to Store Your Mower for the Winter
Once the maintenance and winterizing is complete, you’ve got to safely store your equipment. Protect it from rain, snow, and freeze/thaw cycles. Indoor storage, like a garage or shed is best, but that’s not always possible. In that case, cover it well with a tarp and secure the tarp to prevent it from blowing away. Place the mower on a level surface, preferably a paved surface, but definitely one that won’t become muddy throughout the winter.
Don’t store your mower near corrosive materials like fertilizers – they can eat away at metal when airborne. Be sure to store it away from items that can cause sparks. Even if your mower is indoors, it’s a good idea to cover it with a tarp to prevent dust and dirt from gathering in the components.
With a little extra work put in once a year, you can add years to the life of your mower and ensure you’re able to start every spring ready to start working. So, get your mower winter-ready now!
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