How to Start a Lawn Mower After it Sat a Long Time

Lawnmowers tend to start sluggishly after aperiod of hibernation, but you can usually get them going after a good workoutwith the pull rope and a certain amount of swearing. The machine also needs to wake up.

Here are some tips for getting your mower ready for the use thisspring.  Keep in mind that where you live will determine when you followthese guidelines.  If you live in a warmer climate, you’ll need to prepareyour mower sooner; if you’re still planning to be knee-deep in snow for awhile, keep this list handy for when you can see the grass again.

·        Clean theengine housing.  This should be an easy job if you already cleaned it atthe end of last season and then covered your mower with a protective lawn mower cover to keep the dirt and dust out.

·        Check thecondition of the blade.  Sharpen or replace as necessary.

·        Change theoil. 

·        Replacethe old spark plug. 

·        Refer toyour owner’s manual for other recommended pre-season maintenance tasks relatedspecifically to your lawn mower’s make and model.

·        Fill up thegas tank.

·        Fire up themower to test that it still starts easily and runs smoothly.

·        Cover themower with a protective lawn mower cover until it’s time for the firstofficial mow.