Looking for the best way to prepare your gas mowers and string trimmers for winter this year?
If there is one crucial mistake that many gardeners make late each fall, it’s mowing and trimming their yard for the last time – and then simply putting their mower and string trimmer in the shed or garage and forgetting about it until spring.
Unfortunately, skipping proper winter preparation can lead to significant issues the following spring. Not only can it be expensive and time consuming to repair and fix – it can also mean not having use of the tools you need most to keep your yard from becoming a jungle in early spring.
Let’s face it – spring is NOT the time you want to be heading to your local lawn and garden repair shop when everyone else is trying to get their equipment fixed and ready for the upcoming season as well!
Why It’s Crucial To Prepare Your Gas Mowers & String Trimmers For Winter
Gas mowers and string trimmers have all kinds of components that can degrade over time. Especially if they are not maintained heading into the winter storage season.
Exposure to dirt, grass clippings and moisture can cause problems. The dirt and moisture left on your mower or trimmer can easily lead to rust and decay. Not only does corrosion weaken metal parts, it also shortens the equipment’s life and affects its performance.
Just as important is taking care of the fuel that is left over in the engines and fuel tanks of your lawn equipment. Fuel degrades quickly over the winter months. And if left in the tank or not treated, it can lead to big issues when you go to start it next spring.
The ethanol in gasoline can absorb moisture and cause damage to engine components. Old fuel can also gel up and clog carburetors making for hard starts. Or even worse – no starting at all next spring!
One thing is for sure, just a little work in the fall on your gas powered lawn equipment can save you time and frustration when spring arrives next year and your yard work resumes. It can also save you serious money on repairs or replacements. So with that in mind – here is a great look at just how to properly prepare your equipment for winter!
How To Prepare Gas Mowers & String Trimmers For Winter – So They Start Again Next Year!
Preparing Gas Mowers For Winter
Winterizing your gas mower all comes down to cleaning, inspecting, and managing the fuel and oil. It’s always best to start by removing and cleaning all of the grass clippings and debris stuck to the underside of the mower deck after you mow for the last time. See our article: How To Mow Your Lawn For The Last Time – Before Winter Arrives!
Left in place, all of the dirt and grime will trap moisture, leading to rust and decay. Use a scraper or brush to clean the underside of the deck thoroughly. Once the underside is clean and dry, spray a thin coat of WD-40 or other thin lubricating oil on the underside to keep it from rusting.
This is also the time to remove the air filter and inspect it for dirt and damage. Clean or replace the filter if needed to ensure proper airflow and engine performance next year.
It’s also a great idea to wash the exterior of the mower as well. Wipe down the mower’s exterior with a damp cloth and mild detergent to remove dirt and grease. Be sure to dry it completely as well to prevent rust.
Last but not least, check for any worn or damaged parts. Look for frayed belts or dull blades. It is far better to fix these now than to wait until spring when you need the mower to fire up and go!
Taking Care Of Fuel & Oil – How To Prepare Gas Mowers & String Trimmers For Winter
When it comes to the fuel left in the tank, you have two options. The one thing you don’t want to do is simply allow any fuel left to remain as is! Gasoline left in the tank for extended periods can and will deteriorate and clog the fuel system.
Option one is to empty the tank entirely. If you have a lot of fuel, pull the hose to the tank and drain into a pan. You can also simply allow your mower to start and then run dry. Even if you drain the tank, still start and run the engine until it stops to completely empty the carburetor.
Option two is to use a fuel stabilizer in the fuel. Stabilizers prevent fuel from breaking down and protect the engine from moisture damage. After adding the stabilizer, run the engine for a few minutes to circulate it through the system. Affiliate Link: STA-BIL Storage Fuel Stabilizer | Keeps Fuel Fresh for 24 Months
In addition to taking care of the fuel, now is the time to change your oil as well. Old oil can become contaminated with dirt and debris, potentially damaging the engine. Allowing old oil to remain over winter lets it gel and thicken – again harming the engine and its life span.
Winterizing String Trimmers – How To Prepare Gas Mowers & String Trimmers For Winter
String trimmers (also known as weed eaters in many parts of the country), also require similar care before winter storage. Although they are lightweight, they can face the same issues as gas mowers if neglected.
Again, it’s always best to start by cleaning and removing any dirt, grass and grime. Use a brush or cloth to clean the cutting head, shaft, and air vents. Grass clippings and debris can cause blockages and trap moisture.
Once clean – it’s time to take care of the fuel left in the tank. As with gas mowers, you can empty the tank by running the engine until it stops. If there is a lot of fuel, you can also simply turn it upside down and drain into a pan. Getting out the fuel prevents old fuel from gumming up the carburetor.
Although you can add a fuel stabilizer, with most two and four cycle string trimmer engines, it’s best to simply drain all of the fuel. Once drained, start the unit and allow it run out any remaining gas in the lines or engine.
Finally, apply a light oil or lubricant to the cutting head and other moving parts to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. Now it’s all about finding the best place to store your trimmers and mowers for the long winter ahead!
Storing Gas Mowers & String Trimmers For Winter
Storing gas lawn equipment where it will be exposed to freezing temperatures is not necessarily bad – but always avoid putting gas equipment where it will be humid or moist. It is moisture that is the real enemy!
For string trimmers, store in a dry, cool place. Hang them on a wall hook or lay it flat on a shelf to prevent damage to the shaft or cutting head. For lawn mowers, again, place them out of the way and in a dry location.
One thing is for sure – with a little care now – that mower and string trimmer will fire right up next spring!
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This Is My Garden is a garden website created by gardeners, for gardeners. Jim and Mary Competti have been writing gardening, DIY and recipe articles and books and speaking for over 15 years from their 46 acre Ohio farm. They publish three articles every week, 52 weeks a year. Sign up today to follow via email, or follow along!