Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Maintenance & Troubleshooting Tips for Fall

Self-propelled lawn mowers are built to be reliable, durable and rugged, but they still need routine maintenance. In order to ensure your machine keeps working effectively, make sure to perform these routine checks throughout the rest of summer and into the fall season. Here are some self-propelled lawn mower maintenance tips to follow:

Always remember: safety first. Before cleaning, repairing or inspecting, make certain the blade and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the spark plug ignition wire and ground it against the engine to prevent unintended starting.

The blade is one of the most critically important parts to your lawn mower. Check both the blade and engine bolts at frequent intervals for proper tightness. Also visually inspect the blade for damage — make sure it isn’t bent, cracked or worn. If you need to replace it, be sure to only use the original equipment manufacturer’s blade. Using parts that do not meet the original equipment specifications may lead to improper performance and compromise safety.

Again be careful because mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blades or wear protective gloves, and be sure to use extra caution when servicing them. Also keep all nuts, bolts and screws tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.

Grass catcher components — like the discharge cover and trail shield — are subject to wear and damage, which could expose moving parts or cause objects to be thrown. Frequently check these components, and if damaged replace immediately with original equipment manufacturer parts.

Some additional self-propelled lawn mower troubleshooting and maintenance tips to consider:

• If you strike a foreign object, stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug ignition wire and ground it against engine. Thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage. Repair the damage before starting and operating the mower.
• Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height adjustment while the engine is running.
• Routinely check fuel line, tank, cap and fittings for cracks or leaks. Replace if necessary.

Your Troy-Bilt mower is a valuable tool that helps make yard work easier. Be sure to take care of it so it can take care of your yard year in and year out.

For service and repair, contact Monnick Supply.