Change the Blade on Your Push Mower
Step 1
Tip the mower back on its side to change the blade.
Step 2
Wedge a small piece of 2-by-4 between the blade and mower deck to help prevent the blade from spinning. Or you can use a special blade removal tool.
Step 3
Remove the blade with a socket wrench.
Step 4
Take the blade to a repair shop to have it sharpened. If you want to do this step yourself, you can purchase a blade sharpener and balancer at Lowe’s. If the blades are a few years old and have deep gouges, replace them. Stop by Lowe's with the make, model and serial number for your mower.
Step 5
Scrape any grass clippings from the bottom of the mower deck with a putty knife. Most manufacturers don't recommend using a hose because the water will rust the mower.
Never use a wet-dry vacuum near gasoline.
Step 6
If your mower has belts, belt covers and pulleys, brush them off too. If the belts appear cracked or worn, replace them.
Step 7
Reattach the blade.
Step 8
Turn the mower back on its wheels and refill with fresh oil. Use only the oil type recommended by the manufacturer.
Don't overfill the crankcase. Too much oil causes problems when the engine is running. Add the oil slowly in small increments and check with the dipstick several times. This will ensure you've added the correct amount without overfilling.
Treat Your Lawn Mower's Gas
Gas can decompose over winter and damage your mower's engine. Preserve the fuel in the tank with a fuel stabilizer.
Mix the stabilizer in a gas can, then fill the can with fresh gas. Fill the gas tank with the treated gas, as a full gas tank is less of a fire hazard than an empty one.
Replace the gas cap. You can also purchase a fuel stabilizer gas cap, which automatically releases fuel additives into the gas throughout the mowing season. It has a cartridge that should be replaced every six months.
Lubricate any small moving parts with a spray lubricant. Don't use engine oil on the mower's exterior.
Air Filters and Spark Plugs
If your mower has a foam filter, clean it with soap and water.
Saturate it lightly with engine oil. The oil helps filter out dust particles and debris. If there's any sign of damage, replace the filter.
If you have a paper filter, replace it.
Reconnect the spark plug wire and let the engine run for about a minute. This helps work in the fresh oil and fuel stabilizer.
Be sure to disconnect the spark plug wire before storing.
Store the mower in an area where it won't be exposed to heat or gas appliances and cover with a tarp.
