Getting Your Lawnmowers and ATVs Ready for Spring: A Comprehensive Guide

As winter gives way to spring with warmer days on the horizon, it’s time to prepare your lawnmowers and ATVs for a season of heavy use. Proper maintenance ensures that they will perform efficiently, last longer, and operate safely. Follow this in-depth guide to get your equipment ready for spring.

Preparing Your Lawnmower

Before using your lawnmower for the first time each spring, it’s crucial to start with basic maintenance. This section covers the steps you need to take to ensure your lawnmower is in prime condition for the upcoming season.

1. Cleaning and Inspection – Before you start crossing essential maintenance tasks off your list, start with a thorough cleaning and inspection of your lawnmower.
   • Remove dirt, grass, and debris: Clear buildup and any leftover debris from the mower deck and other components to prevent rust and improve performance.
   • Inspect for rust, wear, and damage: Check the body, wheels, and blade assembly for any signs of deterioration or needed repairs.
2. Maintenance Tasks – Once cleaned, move on to essential maintenance.
   • Change the oil and replace the oil filter: Fresh oil keeps the engine running smoothly and prevents unnecessary wear or engine damage.
   • Sharpen the blades: Dull lawnmower blades can tear grass instead of cutting it, which leads to an uneven cut and potential damage to your lawn. Signs of dull lawnmower blades include uneven grass height, torn grass blades, a bent or dented lawnmower blade, a discolored lawn, and a lawnmower that pulls up chunks of grass or dirt. A good rule of thumb is to sharpen lawnmower blades after every 20 to 25 hours of use time.[1]
   • Check and replace the spark plug if necessary: A healthy spark plug ensures reliable starts and efficient operation. You can test the spark plug with a spark plug tester. You should also check for a light gray or brown residue or any oily or fluffy black deposits.[2] If found, replace the spark plug.
   • Inspect and clean the air filter: A clean air filter improves engine airflow and performance.
   • Check the fuel system and add fresh fuel: Old fuel can cause engine issues. Consider draining the tank and adding fresh fuel or adding a fuel stabilizer. A good tip is to drain or use up any fuel before storing your lawnmower for the season.
3. Battery Care – When performing lawnmower maintenance each spring, don’t forget your lawnmower’s battery. It needs attention too.
   • Test the battery and charge if needed: Ensure the battery will hold a charge and is ready for the season. A Schumacher Electric BT-100 Battery Load Tester and Voltmeter will help you determine if your battery is healthy. To prevent battery issues, use of battery maintainer during the off season to keep the battery healthy and fully charged. The Schumacher Electric SC1355 3-in-1, 1.5-Amp Battery Charger and Maintainer is designed to keep 6-volt and 12-volt batteries in top condition.
   • Clean battery terminals and connections: Use a battery cleaning solution and the Schumacher Electric BAF-BI Battery Terminal Cleaning Brush to remove corrosion for optimal performance.
4. Final Checks – Before your first mow of the season, conduct a few final checks.
   • Test all controls and safety features: A final check ensures that everything is functioning correctly, including kill switches and throttle controls.
   • Lubricate moving parts: Grease wheels, cables, and other moving parts to prevent wear and tear caused by friction.
   • Ensure proper tire pressure: Inflate your lawnmower’s tires to the recommended levels for a smooth ride. Do not overinflate.

Preparing Your ATV

After a long winter in storage, your ATV needs some attention to ensure it’s ready for the adventures ahead. Preparing your ATV involves several essential steps: thorough cleaning and inspection to identify any potential issues, general maintenance to keep all systems in optimal condition, battery care to ensure reliable starts, and final checks to guarantee everything functions smoothly. With these steps, you can enjoy a safe and exhilarating ride on your ATV.

1. Cleaning and Inspection – Just like your lawnmower, your ATV needs a fresh and clean start every spring.
   • Wash off any dirt, mud, and debris: Clean the exterior of the ATV thoroughly to prevent rust and ensure all components can be seen clearly.
   • Inspect for wear, damage, and leaks: Check the frame, suspension, and engine for issues needing repair.
2. Maintenance Tasks – After a thorough cleaning and visual inspection, ensure your ATV is trail-ready with essential maintenance.
   • Change the oil and replace the oil filter: Regular oil changes are crucial for engine longevity.
   • Check and clean the air filter: A clean air filter ensures your engine is operating at peak performance.
   • Check and lubricate the chain or drive belt: Lubrication helps prevent excessive wear and maintain smooth operation.
   • Inspect and replace spark plugs if necessary: Spark plugs play a key role in engine performance. You can use the same spark plug tester you used on your lawnmower and look for the same signs that your spark plugs need replacement (a light gray or brown residue or any oily or fluffy black deposits).
   • Check fluid levels: Ensure coolant, transmission fluid, and other essential fluids are topped off.
3. Battery Care – ATV batteries require the same care as your lawnmower battery.
   • Test the battery and charge if needed: Ensure the battery is fully functional and fully charged for reliable starting. A battery tester can help you identify battery problems, and using a battery maintainer in the off season will help keep your battery healthy.
   • Clean battery terminals and connections: Remove corrosion and buildup from your ATV battery to guarantee consistent performance. Use a battery cleaning solution and a cleaning brush or a toothbrush to remove corrosion from the battery terminals.
4. Final Checks – Before you hit the trails, check a few final items.
   • Test all controls and safety features: Confirm that your ATV’s throttle, brakes, and other controls are in proper operating condition.
   • Ensure proper tire pressure: Adjust your ATV’s tire pressure for safe handling and optimal performance. Do not overinflate or exceed your vehicle’s recommended tire pressure.
   • Inspect lights and electrical components: Ensure headlights, taillights, and other electrical systems work correctly.
   • Check registration and inspection requirements in your state: Some states require that ATVs be inspected and/or registered. Make sure all required inspections and registrations are completed, so that you can legally operate your ATV

Spring maintenance for your lawnmowers and ATVs is essential for their longevity, performance, and safety. By following these maintenance tips, you’ll ensure your equipment operates smoothly all season long. For more products to support your maintenance needs, visit our battery charger & maintainer shop. Let’s make this spring your most productive and enjoyable yet!