Spring Servicing Tips to Tune Up Your Zero-Turn Mower

Zero-turn mowers are efficient and reliable machines for all scales of landscaping tasks. However, you should perform pre-season servicing to unleash their potential completely. This will help prolong the lifespan of these robust machines by preventing future problems that may interrupt your mowing tasks when you need them most—during the peak of the mowing season!

Inspecting and Cleaning the Mower

Before diving into mechanical maintenance, inspect and clean your zero-turn mower completely. Remove any dirt, debris, or grass buildup from the deck, engine compartment, and undercarriage. Built-up grass clippings can restrict airflow and cause overheating, reducing performance. Check for any signs of rust, cracks, or worn-out components that need replacement.

Checking and Changing Engine Oil

Like any high-performance machine, a zero-turn mower relies on clean engine oil for smooth operation. Old, dirty oil can lead to poor engine performance and increased wear. If you didn’t change the oil before storing your equipment for the winter, now is the time to drain and replace it with fresh oil. Be sure to replace the oil filter to keep contaminants from circulating through the engine.

Inspecting the Air Filter

A clean air filter is crucial for optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency. Check the filter for dirt, dust, and debris—if it's clogged or excessively dirty, replace it with a new one. Some filters can be cleaned and reused, but if yours looks overly worn or damaged, replace it immediately.

Sharpening the Blades

Dull blades tear the grass instead of cutting it cleanly. This can lead to a less attractive lawn and potential disease in the grass. To prevent this, sharpen your zero-turn mower’s blades or replace them if necessary. 

We hope you find these seasonal maintenance tips handy when preparing your zero-turn mower. If you have more questions or want to upgrade your machine to the latest model, visit Magnum Power. We are in Lawson, MO, and proudly serve those from Clay County and Kansas City. So why wait? Begin your pre-season mower servicing today and equip yourself for an unfettered mowing season ahead!