SUMMER: Seasonal Maintenance Calendar

Routine Seasonal Maintenance Is The Best Way To Maximize The Performance Of Your Outdoor Power Equipment.

BEFORE OPERATING:

All Power Equipment

  • Disconnect spark plug wire before cleaning, making repairs, or conducting routine inspections.
  • Clean all old debris and clippings from mower and tractor decks.
 
FOR REGULAR OPERATION:

All Power Equipment

  • Refer to the maintenance section of your owner's manual for proper instructions.
  • Dress properly for the job, wearing substantial shoes, long pants and close-fitting clothes (no loose jewelry, unrestrained hair or anything that could g et caught in a moving part).
  • Clear the working area before you start by picking up anything that could be thrown by the equipment or would block the equipment's operation. Then clear the area of people and pets. Watch out for young children.
  • Never remove or tamper with safety devices and labels -- they're designed to protect you.
  • Handle gas carefully. Fill up before you start, while the engine is cold. Don't spill when you fill and no smoking when gasoline is being used.
  • Check safety devices to ensure that they are attached and working.
  • Regularly check that engine oil is "Full."
  • Regularly check all nuts, bolts, belts and screws for tightness.
  • Check that engine cooling fins are clean with every operation.
  • Regularly check that air filter is clean.

Lawn Tractors

  • Disengage power to attachments when leaving ope rator's seat, when transporting or when tractor/rider is in storage.
  • Regularly check that tires are properly inflated.
  • Always remove dirt, grass, and debris from engine cooling fins, engine covers, and air intake screens.

Lawn Mowers

  • Regularly check belts/chain drives for wear and tightness.
  • Check that pull cords are not frayed and are in working condition.
  • Make sure throttle control is properly adjusted.

Hand-Held Leaf Blowers & Edger/Trimmers

  • Use a high-quality engine oil specifically for two-cycle, hand-held equip ment (if applicable). Fuel stabilizers can help fuel maintain a high octane level for longer periods, giving easier starting and cooler engine performance.
  • Make sure all intake vents are clear.
  • Before using, carefully balance and adjus t the equipment for operator comfort and safety.

Walk-Behind Blower Vacs

  • Check wheels, intake vents, and other components to make sure they are free f rom debris and in working order.
  • Disengage power before switching attachments.
  • Empty bag and make sure vacuum is unobstructed.
  • Fill collection bag only to recommended levels and replace with care.

Walk-Behind Rotary Tillers

  • Check all working components to see if they are operating properly.
  • Make sure nuts and bolts are tight.
  • Select forward or reverse (for dual-direction models) and carefully align handles, controls, operating height, and operator position before starting.

Log Splitters

  • Carefully position equipment on stable, even ground.
  • Make sure tires are properly inflated and all components operate correctly before starting.
  • Check that pressure hoses are tight and not leaking.
  • Follow manufacturer's directions fo r operating and standing at a safe distance.

Chain Saws

  • Periodically rotate the bar for even wear.
  • Check throttle trigger and in terlock system for proper function.
  • Check chain brake for proper function.
  • Assure that the saw chain is properly tensioned, that it is sharp, and that it is getting sufficient oil.
  • Check that the saw idles properly (the chain should not rotate at idle speed). 
  • Inspect the entire saw for loose parts, cracks, or other problems.
  • Use a high quality bar oil to lubricate the bar and chain.
  • Avoid gasoline containing alcohol, or use a gasoline with less than 10% alcohol with a high quality two-cycle engine oil with additives.
 
FOR REPAIRS:

All Power Equipment

  • Refer to the repairs section of your owner's manual for proper instructions.
  •  If you have any questions or are not comfortable repairing your own equipment , please contact your nearest outdoor power equipment servicing retailer.
  • Before any repair, be sure to turn off the unit and disconnect the spark plug wire.
  • Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. Never work on equipment while it is running.