Whether you like it or not, the seasons are changing. Dropping temperatures and color-changing leaves usher in the colder months of the year. Taking some time now to do some basic maintenance can help save you time and frustration at the start of the next mowing season. This article will tell you how to prepare your Troy-Bilt walk-behind mower for off season storage. Depending on your model, the instructions listed below may vary slightly. Always be sure to check your Operator's Manual for detailed instructions.
Step 1 - Pre-Prep
- Be sure the mower is on a flat level surface. Turn the engine off and make sure it is cool.
- Gather the necessary tools needed to complete the steps. Most Winterization procedures listed below can be completed with a basic mechanic’s tool kit, but some steps are much easier when utilizing the Arnold Siphon Pump, Blade Sharpening Kit, and Blade Removal Kit, found in the links in this article.
Step 2 - Check and Replace Spark Plugs
- Disconnect the spark plug ignition wire.
- Replace worn or damaged spark plug. Check the old spark plug or your operator's manual for the correct part number.
Step 3 - Change Oil
- Remove the dip stick. Then using the Arnold Siphon Pump, place the top tube into the dip stick hole on the engine, and the bottom tube into the oil pan.
- Prime the pump by pumping the handle three to four times. Once the oil begins to flow, it will flow without further pumping.
- Remove the Arnold Siphon Pump.
- Add new oil as instructed in your operator's manual.
- Replace the dip stick. Wait several minutes, then use the dip stick to check the oil level.
Step 4 - Replace and Clean the Air Filter
- Release the tabs to remove the air filter cover and remove the old filter.
- Replace with a new filter.
- Replace the cover and secure it to the mower.
Step 5 - Replace the Blades and Clean the Mowing Deck
- Tilt the mower on its side with the air filter facing up. Clean the undercarriage of dirt, grass clippings and other objects that may have become lodged there.Wearing gloves for protection, inspect your blade for wear or damage.Use the Blade Removal Tool to hold the blade in place. Then, using a socket, loosen the bolt securing the cutting blade to the engine drive shaft.
- Assemble the new blade and blade adaptor on the engine crankshaft and tighten the bolt to the proper torque as indicated in your operator's manual.
- If your blade only needs sharpening, use the Arnold Lawn Mower Blade Sharpener and Balancer Kit.
- Remove the blade removal tool.
Step 6 - Check the Mower for Broken, Worn or Missing Parts
- Check the mower for any other broken on worn parts including the belt cover, belts, discharge chute, bag, mulch plug, and tires.
- Replace any of these worn or broken parts with the correct replacement parts as noted in your operator's manual.
Step 7 - Prepare the Fuel Tank for Storage
- Finally, add a fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank to prevent fuel from spoiling while the mower is not in use.
