Spring Tune-Up Checklist: Get Your Lawn Mower Ready for the Season

Winter is finally over, and with warmer weather on the way, it’s time to prepare your lawn for a season of healthy growth. A well-maintained lawn mower is essential for achieving a clean, even cut and keeping your grass in top condition.

If your mower has been sitting idle in storage for months, a spring tune-up is necessary to ensure it starts easily and operates efficiently. Follow this comprehensive checklist from Equip Rentals in Niagara Falls to get your lawn mower ready for the season ahead.

Step 1: Inspect Your Lawn Mower for Any Damage

🔍 Before starting any maintenance, give your mower a thorough inspection. Look for any signs of:

Cracked fuel lines or leaks
Rust or corrosion on metal parts
Loose bolts, nuts, or cables
Worn-out belts or frayed wires (on self-propelled or riding mowers)

Pro Tip: If you notice serious damage, bring it to a professional before attempting to use it.

Step 2: Change the Oil and Replace the Oil Filter

Old engine oil loses its lubrication properties, causing unnecessary wear on your mower’s engine.

🔧 How to Change the Oil:

Run the mower for a few minutes to warm up the oil, making it easier to drain.
Disconnect the spark plug for safety.
Drain the old oil by tilting the mower or using an oil drain plug (refer to the owner’s manual).
Replace the oil filter (if your mower has one).
Refill with fresh, manufacturer-recommended oil and check the level.

Pro Tip: Regular oil changes extend your engine’s lifespan and improve fuel efficiency.

Step 3: Replace or Clean the Air Filter

A dirty air filter can clog your mower’s engine, reducing power and efficiency.

🔧 How to Clean or Replace Your Air Filter:

Foam filters: Wash with warm, soapy water, let it dry completely, then apply a few drops of oil before reinstalling.
Paper filters: If clogged or excessively dirty, replace them with a new one.

Pro Tip: Check your air filter every month during mowing season and clean or replace it as needed.

Step 4: Check and Replace the Spark Plug

A worn-out spark plug can make your mower hard to start or cause it to run rough.

🔧 How to Replace Your Spark Plug:

Use a spark plug wrench to remove the old one.
Check for carbon buildup, wear, or corrosion.
Install a new spark plug, tightening it securely.

Pro Tip: Replace the spark plug once a year for a smoother start and better engine performance.

Step 5: Sharpen and Balance the Blade

Dull mower blades tear grass instead of cutting it, leading to a weak, unhealthy lawn.

🔧 How to Sharpen Your Blade:

Remove the blade using a wrench.
Use a file, bench grinder, or sharpening tool to restore the edge.
Check for balance—an uneven blade can cause vibrations and strain the engine.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about sharpening, bring your blade to Equip Rentals for professional sharpening and balancing.

Step 6: Inspect the Fuel System and Use Fresh Gasoline

Old gas left in the tank over the winter can become stale and clog the carburetor.

🔧 How to Ensure a Healthy Fuel System:

✅ Drain any old fuel from the tank and carburetor.

✅ Replace the fuel filter if necessary.

✅ Fill the tank with fresh, ethanol-free gasoline.

Pro Tip: Adding a fuel stabilizer to your gas before winter storage can prevent clogs and hard starts in the spring.

Step 7: Check the Battery (For Riding Mowers)

If you have a riding mower or battery-powered mower, the battery may have drained over the winter.

🔧 How to Maintain Your Battery:

✅ Check the terminals for corrosion and clean if necessary.

✅ Charge the battery fully before the first use.

✅ Replace the battery if it no longer holds a charge.

Pro Tip: Store batteries indoors during winter to extend their lifespan.

Step 8: Lubricate Moving Parts

Proper lubrication prevents wear and tear on critical mower components.

🔧 Lubricate the following parts:

✔ Wheels and axles

✔ Cables and levers

✔ Bearings and spindles

Pro Tip: Use manufacturer-approved lubricants to avoid damage.

Step 9: Adjust the Mower Deck and Tire Pressure

If your mower is cutting unevenly, the deck height or tire pressure may need adjusting.

🔧 How to Ensure an Even Cut:

✅ Check the mower deck height and adjust if necessary.

✅ Ensure tires are evenly inflated to prevent uneven mowing.

Pro Tip: Always mow with sharp blades and a level deck to keep your lawn looking its best.

Step 10: Test Run Your Mower Before the First Cut

Once you’ve completed all the steps, start the mower and let it run for a few minutes.

✅ Listen for smooth operation—no rough idling or excessive smoke.

✅ Engage the blades and test the cut on a small patch of grass.

✅ If everything is running smoothly, you’re ready for the mowing season!

Pro Tip: If your mower still struggles to start or runs unevenly, it may need professional servicing.

Why Choose Equip Rentals in Niagara Falls for Your Spring Lawn Mower Tune-Up?

At Equip Rentals, we offer expert lawn mower servicing and tune-ups to keep your equipment running like new. Our trained technicians can handle everything from oil changes to blade sharpening and carburetor cleaning.

✔ Fast, reliable service

✔ High-quality replacement parts

✔ Experienced technicians

Located in Niagara Falls? Need a professional spring tune-up? Contact Equip Rentals today to schedule your lawn mower maintenance!