Spring Startup: Getting Your Mower Ready After Winter

Spring is here and the grass is growing — time to get the mower out. If you winterized properly, startup should be smooth. If you didn't, you might have some work to do.

Step 1: Visual Inspection — Before you do anything, look the mower over. Check for mouse nests (they love to build in mower decks and engine compartments over winter), loose or damaged parts, cracked fuel lines, and any signs of rust or corrosion.

Step 2: Check the Oil — Even if you changed it before storage, verify the level and condition. Oil can collect condensation over winter. If it looks milky or has water droplets on the dipstick, change it.

Step 3: Assess the Fuel — Did you add stabilizer before storage? If yes, the fuel should still be good. If not, drain it and start with fresh gas. Never try to start an engine on fuel that's been sitting untreated for months — you'll clog the carburetor.

Step 4: Check the Air Filter — Remove it and inspect. Replace if dirty. Even if it looks clean, give it a tap to knock out any dust. A clean air filter ensures the engine gets proper airflow from the first start.

Step 5: Inspect the Spark Plug — Pull it and check the gap and condition. If it looks worn or fouled, replace it. Fresh spark plug, fresh season.

Step 6: Check the Blade — Is it sharp? Now is the time to sharpen or replace it — before you need it. Starting the season with a sharp blade means a better-looking lawn from day one.

Step 7: For Riding Mowers — Check the battery voltage. Fully charged should read 12.6 volts or higher. Check tire pressure. Inspect the drive belt. Test all safety switches before mowing.

Step 8: First Start — Prime the engine (if it has a primer bulb), set the choke, and start it up. Let it warm up for a minute or two before mowing. Listen for any unusual sounds.

If it doesn't start or runs rough, don't force it. Repeated cranking on a flooded or fuel-starved engine just drains the battery (riding mowers) or wears you out (push mowers). Bring it in and we'll get it sorted out quickly.