Spring is just around the corner, and soon that equipment that sits dormant most of the fall and winter will once again be in high demand. Before your customers start requesting lawn tractors and leaf blowers, review these spring maintenance tips from the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute, Alexandria, Va.

All power equipment

• Change spark plug if necessary.
• Clean or replace the air filter.
• Check safety devices to ensure that they are attached and working.
• Change engine oil.
• Fill gas tank carefully to avoid spilling fuel.

Walk-behind lawn mowers

• Check blades for sharpness.
• Make sure the cutting deck is cleared of old clippings and debris.
• Check that pull cords are not frayed and are in working condition.
• Check that attachments are connected and working properly.

Lawn tractors

• Give battery a thorough charging before reinstalling after winter storage (check electrolyte level in each cell, first) … see owner's manual.
• Check electrical system for loose or dirty connections.
• Check spark plugs annually.
• Clean old debris and clippings from cutting deck and attachments.
• Make sure tires are properly inflated.
• Check mower deck for bolt tightness, belt wear and blade sharpness.
• Make sure throttle control is properly adjusted.

Hand-held leaf bowers & edger/trimmers

• Clean or replace spark plug every year.
• Make sure all components are in operating condition.
• Check that straps, handles, nuts, and bolts are secure.
• Use a high quality two-cycle engine oil specifically for two-cycle handheld equipment (where applicable). Lower grade oils or those for outboard boat engines will not provide sufficient protection. Fuel stabilizers can help maintain a high octane level for longer periods, giving easier starting and cooler engine performance.

Log splitters

• Check that all engine components are properly lubricated and in good operating condition.
• Replace cracked or leaky pressure hoses.
• Make sure tires are properly inflated.

Walk behind blower vacs

• Check that all engine components are properly lubricated and in good operating condition.
• Make sure catch bag is clean and in good repair.
• Check that attachments, tires, levers and controls are operating correctly and in good condition.
• Check wheels, intake vents and other components to make sure they are free from debris and in working order.
• Disengage power before switching attachments.

Walk behind rotary tillers

• Check that all engine components are properly lubricated and in good operating condition.
• Sharpen tines.
• Make sure tires are properly inflated.
• Check that control levers, connections, nuts and bolts are secure and operating correctly.

Shredder/grinders

• Give battery a thorough charging before reinstalling after seasonal storage (check electrolyte level in each cell first.)
• Make initial oil change after first two hours of operation; every 10 hours thereafter.
• Clean or replace spark plug every year.
• Apply lubricant several times a season to the clutch lever, wheels and axle spacer and the belt tension adjustment bolt (see operator's manual).
• Ensure correct tension of the belt (see operator's manual).
• Check cutting blades often and rotate/replace as necessary (see operator's manual).

Information reprinted from the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute Web site, opei.mow.org.

Got Tips?

If you have maintenance tips to pass along to RER readers, please contact Brandey Smith, managing editor at brasmith@primediabusiness.com or 913/967-7458.