Seasonal Tips

Spring into action: how to prep your lawn mower for the new season?

Spring is in the air, the flowers are blooming, the bees are buzzing, and the grass is growing. Which, of course, means you can’t wait to jump back on your mower. But after spending the winter collecting dust out in the shed, your trusty mower is going to need a little extra TLC.

Whether you’re using a zero-turn mower or a lawn tractor with or without collection, these simple maintenance steps will help you start the season off right.

Tip: To make next spring's start even easier, tackle some maintenance work, such as draining the fuel or sharpening the blades, before storing your mower for winter. This way, you’ll be ready to go as soon as the grass starts growing.

Inspect the mower body

Begin by inspecting your mower’s exterior for any signs of wear. Look for rust, loose bolts, or other issues which might have gone unnoticed before storing your mower for winter. Now is the time to address them!

Tip for next season: Giving your mower a quick wash and inspection before storing it over winter can prevent rust and speed up spring prep.

Change the oil and check the fuel

Fuel check: Fuel left in the tank for a prolonged time degrades, which can lead to difficult starts and engine issues. Adding a fuel stabiliser can help preserve fuel quality, especially if the mower isn’t used frequently. But if the fuel is already stale or has been stored for an extended period, it’s best to drain and replace it.
Oil change: Over time, engine oil breaks down and loses its ability to lubricate and protect the engine. Draining the old oil and refilling with fresh oil reduces engine wear and keeps everything running smoothly.

Tip for next season: Add fuel stabiliser or drain the tank before storing your mower for winter. This helps avoid clogs and makes it easy to pick up right where you left off when spring arrives.

Clean the air filter

After months of storage, a clean air filter can make all the difference in engine performance by ensuring proper airflow. If your mower’s filter is reusable, simply remove it and clear out any dust or debris. Disposable filters can be replaced.

Check the spark plug

The spark plug is essential for a reliable engine start-up. Inspect it for any signs of wear or build-up, as this can affect how smoothly your mower runs. If it’s worn or corroded, replacing the spark plug is a quick, inexpensive fix that can save you from frustration later on.

For safety, always use an approved spark plug tester rather than removing the spark plug to test for spark. When replacing the spark plug, ensure you’re using the correct type for your engine. If you’re unsure how to do it, consult your engine manual for detailed guidance.

Make sure your battery’s ready to go

It’s important to check the battery’s condition after winter storage. Look for any corrosion on the terminals, as this can interfere with performance, and make sure it’s holding a full charge.

If the battery is low, give it a recharge; if it’s not holding a charge, consider a replacement to ensure reliable starts throughout the season.

Tip for next season: A trickle charger can help maintain your battery through winter, keeping it in tip-top shape and ready to go when spring arrives. For more detailed tips, check out our blog on winter battery care.

Sharpen and balance your mower’s blades

Sharpening: Dull blades can damage grass, leaving it more vulnerable to disease. Aim for a blade sharpness similar to a butter knife: sharp enough to cut cleanly without tearing.
Balancing: Properly balanced blades reduce vibrations, giving you an even cut, and preventing lawn damage.

Tip: For more detailed advice on sharpening and balancing, be sure to check out our blog on lawn mower blade maintenance. If you’re replacing blades, consider Snapper’s official blades. Made from hardened steel, they’re designed for Snapper mowers and are the best fit for your model.

Inspect and clean the Grass Collector

If your mower has a rear collection system, it’s worth taking a moment to inspect the collector after winter. Look for any wear, tears, or leftover grass clippings that might have settled in. A quick clean-out of any remaining debris will help keep the collection system running smoothly and prevent clogging.

Tip for Next Season: Emptying and cleaning the collector before storing your mower can help keep it free of mould or blockages.

Get those tyres ready

After a winter in storage, a quick tyre check ensures your mower is stable and ready to tackle the season. Here’s how to get those tyres back in shape:

Inspect for cracks or wear: Start by giving each tyre a good once-over. Look for any cracks, worn treads, or small bits of debris that might have settled in over winter.
Check and adjust pressure: Use a gauge to check each tyre’s pressure and pump them up to the recommended level if they’ve deflated. This keeps your mower stable and helps protect your lawn from wear.
Monitor for slow leaks: After a test run or a few days of standing, check the pressure again. If any tyre is losing air, it might have a slow leak that needs attention.

Tip: Properly inflated tyres improve traction and minimise turf damage, which is especially important for heavier mowers.

Take it for a spin!

With everything tuned up and ready, it’s time for the best part: firing up your mower for a quick test run! Try it out on a small patch of grass to make sure everything’s running smoothly. If you notice any unusual sounds or vibrations, it may indicate a balance or alignment issue. Otherwise, you’re all set for a season of effortless mowing!