Snowblowers and Lawn Mowers: Fall Tune-ups

As fall approaches, the transition from lawn care to snow removal begins. Preparing both your lawn mower and snowblower for the changing seasons ensures that these machines will be in peak condition when you need them most. In this guide, we’ll walk you through essential maintenance tasks to keep your equipment ready for action, whether you’re storing it for winter or gearing up for snow.

Snowblower Tune-Up: Get Ready for Winter

When the first snowfall hits, you don’t want to be caught off guard by a malfunctioning snowblower. Performing a thorough tune-up now will save you time, money, and headaches later.

  1. Thorough Cleaning and Inspection
    • After months of storage, your snowblower may have collected dust, debris, or even moisture that can affect its performance. Start by cleaning off accumulated dirt and checking the machine for damage or worn-out parts like belts and paddles. Inspect the auger and impeller for signs of wear to ensure optimal snow clearing.
  2. Oil Change
    • Like any machine, snowblowers rely on fresh oil to function efficiently. After a season of hard work, the oil can become dirty or depleted. Draining old oil and replacing it with fresh, clean oil ensures easy operation and prevents engine wear. Check the manufacturer’s recommendation for the specific type of oil needed.
  3. Spark Plug Replacement
    • Cold weather makes it harder for small engines to start. Inspect the spark plug for corrosion or deposits, which can prevent it from igniting properly. A quick spark plug replacement ensures easy starts during the freezing months and keeps the engine running smoothly.
  4. Fuel System Care
    • If your snowblower was stored with fuel in the tank, it’s time to drain it and add fresh fuel. Gasoline can degrade over time, causing issues like clogging and engine misfires. If you’re using new fuel, adding a fuel stabilizer will help prevent the fuel from deteriorating over the winter months.
  5. Check the Tires and Skid Shoes
    • Snowblower tires often lose air over time, hindering traction and performance. Inflate them to the correct pressure to ensure stability in icy conditions. Also, check and adjust the skid shoes to maintain the proper clearance for different surfaces, preventing wear on the auger and impeller.

Lawn Mower Tune-Up: End-of-Season Care

As you wrap up your lawn mowing duties for the year, performing a final tune-up on your lawn mower before storing it away is crucial. Proper care now will guarantee it’s in top shape when spring arrives.

  1. Clean the Mower Deck
    • Grass clippings, dirt, and moisture can build up under the mower deck, leading to rust and corrosion if left unchecked. Use a hose to wash away any debris, and consider scraping off stubborn clumps of grass. Keeping the deck clean will prolong its lifespan and improve mowing performance next season.
  2. Sharpen the Blades
    • Dull blades tear the grass rather than cutting it cleanly, which can damage your lawn. Now is a great time to sharpen the blades, ensuring a precise cut when spring returns. If your blades are significantly worn or damaged, consider replacing them altogether.
  3. Replace Air Filters and Spark Plugs
    • Air filters and spark plugs are vital to maintaining a healthy engine. A dirty air filter restricts airflow, reducing engine efficiency, while a worn spark plug can cause poor ignition. Replacing both components ensures your mower will start quickly and run efficiently next year.
  4. Fuel Drainage or Stabilization
    • Fuel left in the tank can break down and clog the carburetor. You have two options: run the mower until the fuel is used up or add a fuel stabilizer to prevent deterioration. A stabilized fuel system will ensure easy startup in the spring without the hassle of clogged lines or filters.
  5. Inspect and Replace Belts or Cables
    • Belts and cables can stretch or wear out during mowing season. Inspect these components for signs of cracking or damage and replace them as needed. This preventive step can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns when it’s time to mow again.

Storage Tips for Both Machines

Proper storage is key to ensuring your snowblower and lawn mower remain in excellent condition throughout the winter. Here are some best practices for winter storage:

  • Dry, Covered Storage: Store both machines in a dry, sheltered area like a garage or shed. Moisture can cause rust and damage electrical components.
  • Use a Cover: If indoor storage isn’t available, invest in protective covers to shield your equipment from dust, debris, and weather damage.
  • Battery Care: If your lawn mower or snowblower is battery-operated, remove the battery before storage and keep it in a cool, dry place. Check the battery charge periodically to ensure it’s ready to go when you need it.

Why Regular Maintenance Matters

Consistent maintenance for your lawn mower and snowblower isn’t just about getting through the season—it’s about extending the life of your equipment. Well-cared for machines will operate more efficiently, saving you from the inconvenience and cost of emergency repairs or replacements. Performing these tune-ups now ensures that your snowblower is ready for winter and your lawn mower is stored safely until spring.

Book Your Fall Tune-Up with EPM Motorsports

At EPM Motorsports, we specialize in small-engine tune-ups and maintenance, ensuring that your equipment operates at peak performance when needed. Our expert technicians can handle everything from oil changes and blade sharpening to complete fuel system overhauls.

Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule your fall tune-up today and keep your snowblower and lawn mower in peak condition all year round.

Contact us at info@epmmotorsports.com or call (773) 207-3730 to schedule your fall tune-up.