How to Change Your Lawn Mower’s Oil

Changing your lawn mower’s engine oil is an important part of its regular maintenance and care. If you want your machinery to last, you’ll need to replace your oil after every 50 hours of use, or at least once a season. To learn how to change your mower’s oil with no fuss, read over our helpful instructions below.

Getting Started

To begin, you’ll first need to run your mower for at least 15 minutes to warm up the engine and get the oil moving. Next use a screwdriver to remove your spark plug to ensure the mower doesn’t start accidentally, and lift your lawn mower up onto bricks or wood blocks. Locate the oil drain plug on your mower and position an oil pan or container underneath before removing it. Your oil should pour out into the container below, however you may need to tilt and cajole your model to empty out the reservoir fully.

Changing the Filter

Not all lawnmowers have an oil filter, in which case you’re free to simply reattach the drain plug and refill your model with fresh oil. However, if your mower does have an oil filter you’ll need to replace it now. Use a wrench to grip the old filter and turn it in a counterclockwise motion to remove it. Cover the rubber gasket of your mower with a bit of fresh oil, then insert your new filter by hand, using your wrench to tighten it in place. Afterward, reinsert your drain plug and begin filling your mower with fresh oil. Be sure to check the dipstick regularly to avoid overfilling your lawn mower.

For more mower maintenance tips, or help getting your model back in working condition, visit us here at Desert Greens Equipment in Albuquerque or Belen, New Mexico. Our expert service staff will be happy to assist with all of your machinery’s maintenance needs, and we always look forward to serving those nearby in Santa Fe, and Rio Ranchero, New Mexico