A riding mower is an investment, not unlike a car, and requires equal maintenance. Failure to do so could impair its performance or shorten its life span. The guide below looks at what owners should be doing to take care of their machinery.

A Guide to Mower Maintenance

1. Blow Out Old Debris

Keep your mower clean using an air compressor or leaf blower. Cleaning it of stuck-on leaves, grass, and other debris on a regular basis can help prevent corrosion caused by the wet materials.

2. Change the Oil

Just as with a car, your riding mower needs clean engine oil to operate smoothly. Replace both the oil and filter at the beginning of each season—or more frequently if you live in a dusty environment. Check the oil level before each use and top it off as necessary.

3. Check the Air Filter

A clogged air filter can create so much suction that the pressure puts a hole in the filter. This lets in all manner of contaminants. Moreover, a dirty filter means the engine doesn't get enough air, and this can clog up your spark plugs.

4. Sharpen the Blades

Dull blades don't cut grass cleanly. Instead, they tear off the top of the stalks, which leaves them looking scraggly and uneven. Sharpen your mower blades at least three times each year, or more frequently if it regularly encounters fallen tree branches and twigs.

5. Check Fuel

Not only should you make sure your machine has a regular supply of gas, but when it comes time to store it for the season, don’t leave it full of fuel. If you do, there's a good chance the gas will go bad before you use it again next year. When this occurs, follow proper hazardous waste disposal guidelines to get rid of the old fuel before refilling the tank.

For riding mower maintenance and repairs, contact Hartill's Mountain Saw & Tractor, an experienced power equipment dealer in Chewelah, WA. They have served customers in and around Stevens County since opening their doors in 1965. In addition to riding mowers, they also specialize in landscaping equipment, tractor parts, and tractor repair. Visit their website to request more information or call (509) 935-8829 to have your questions answered.