Small engines need to have their oil changed just like your car does, though the intervals between oil changes will be much shorter. For lawn mowers, you can expect to have to change the oil every 25 to 50 hours of operation, depending on the type of mower you’re working with. Your owner’s manual will have information specific to your model that you should be familiar with.
Generally, though, it’s recommended that you make an oil change a part of your tune-up right before the mowing season begins. Annual oil changes will go a long way toward keeping your mower’s engine in good condition.
Here’s a quick overview of how to change mower oil in Monroe, LA.
Get everything prepared
You should start by warming up the engine before you begin changing the oil. This will allow the oil to move more freely through the system, and make it easier for you to get old oil out of the engine.
Next, you can use compressed air or a clean towel to clean the area around the oil fill spot. Make sure you have a drip pan on hand to catch the oil when it comes out of the mower—position the pan on the side of the mower toward which you’ll be tipping to remove the oil.
Remove the old oil
To get rid of the old oil that’s still in the mower, remove the oil fill cap and tip the lawn mower onto its side, making sure that the oil is spilling out into your prepared oil pan. Leave the mower on its side for a minute or so to make sure you’re able to get out as much of the old oil as possible.
Replace the filter (if applicable)
Most walk-behind lawn mowers do not have oil filters, but there are a few models you’ll find on the market that do feature them in their engine design. If you’re one of the few who do have an engine filter on your lawn mower, this is the point at which you would swap it out. However, if you don’t have a filter on your mower, you can proceed to the next step.
Refill your oil
You should double check your owner’s manual for the exact quantity of oil you should put into your engine, as well as the specific type of oil you should be using. Make sure you have a dipstick that will give you exact oil level readings. You’ll find most mowers require 2/3 to 3/4 of a quart of oil.
Add oil gradually until you’ve filled the engine to the proper level. You may need to stop a few times to check the level with the dipstick. Once you’ve got the oil in at the proper level, simply put the oil cap back on, and you’ll be good to go.
The process really is that simple! But if you have further questions about how often to change mower oil in Monroe, LA, reach out to Ram Rent-All, Inc. today.