Maintain a Push Lawn Mower

Find step-by-step instructions on how to change the oil, replace mower blades, air filters and spark plugs in your walk-behind lawn mower.

Fall Push Mower Maintenance

After a season of mowing, perform these steps before storing your lawn mower for winter.

Remove the grass catcher, and brush out any grass clippings.
Run the mower for about a minute. The oil will be easier to change while it's warm.
Turn off the mower.
Cover the work area with a drop cloth.
Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug. Now the mower is safe to work on.
Brush off the rest of the mower with a cleaning brush. The engine will still be hot, so be careful.
Prevent the gas from spilling when you tip the mower to change the oil and blades.

Unscrew the gas cap.
Place a piece of heavy-duty plastic over the gas inlet.
Replace the gas cap.
Perform any maintenance in a well-ventilated area. Open the garage door for maximum air circulation.

Change the Oil in Your Mower

The oil keeps the engine lubricated and working properly. So change it after every mowing season.

Step 1
Remove the oil cap and dipstick.

Step 2
Set the used-oil container next to the mower.

Step 3
Tip the mower on its side to pour the oil from the mower into the container. Always tip the mower spark plug side up or dipstick side down to keep oil off the air filter, carburetor and gas tank. If oil gets in these components, the engine may not work properly.

Step 4
Once the oil has completely drained from the engine, replace the oil cap.

Step 5
Don't add fresh oil until you're finished with the blades.

Never pour oil down the drain. Instead, contact your local recycling center for oil disposal instructions.
Consider using an oil vacuum as another option when changing the oil. These systems are easy to use and leave little mess.