Winterize your lawnmower

WARNING: REMOVE THE SPARK PLUG WIRE!

First Step: Drain the Fuel - Take off the fuel cap. Insert a siphoning hose and draw out as much fuel as possible.

Second Step: Drain the Oil - Remove the oil dip stick. Lay a shallow pan beside your lawnmower on the same side as the dip stick. Tip the lawnmower over to allow the oil to drain into the pan. (Recycle your old oil by pouring it into a container and taking it to your local recycling depot.)

Third Step: Sharpen or Replace the blade - After you have drained the oil, while the lawnmower is still on its side, check the blade. You will most likely need a 9/16 socket and ratchet, a pair of heavy duty gloves and a block of wood (not more that 8" long). To help you loosen the blade bolt from the engine, wedge the block of wood between the tip of the blade and the inside of the cutting deck. Normally, the back area of the deck is a good area for this. Once you have wedged the block, loosen the 9/16 bolt and remove the blade. Be sure to pay attention to how any washers or spacers are assembled for when you put the blade back on the lawnmower. Sharpen or replace the blade as necessary. Check your owner's manual for the correct torque specifications for installing blades.

Fourth Step: Replacing the Spark Plug - Insert the spark plug socket and remove the spark plug. Install new spark plug. It is not necessary to over tighten the plug. DO NOT attach the plug wire back on the spark plug.

Fifth Step: Replacing the Air Filter - Replace the paper filter. The pre-filter can be cleaned with mild soapy water. Allow it to thoroughly dry before you reinstall it. Install the pre-filter first and then install the new paper filter.

Finally, pour in new motor oil, being careful not to overfill. Install spark plug wire back on the spark plug. Start the mower and allow it to run until it stops running. This will completely empty your mower of fuel and will leave it dry until next season. When you next need to use your mower, pour in fresh gas, start and mow!

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