Lawnmower
Lawnmower Photo: Thinkstock


Rough-running, poor-cutting lawnmower makes the job of keeping the yard neat and tidy a lot more time consuming. While it does need a professional service every few years, you can keep the lawnmower in shape yourself with just a couple of hours’ work. Give it a once-over to keep rust away, blades sharp and the engine running smoothly.

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STEP 1

Empty old petrol
If you won’t be using the mower for a few weeks, empty the petrol by tipping the machine or using an old turkey baster, and let it run dry. Work in a ventilated area away from sparks and flame. Clean spills immediately, store petrol in approved sealed containers and dispose of old fuel appropriately.

STEP 2

Change the oil regularly
Most new mowers run on a petroloil mix (25:1 or 20:1) and don’t need oil changes. Mowers with oil reservoirs should have an oil change every three months. Run the mower for a few minutes then disconnect the spark plug and drain the oil. Check the level between changes and top up.

STEP 3

Change the spark plug
A new spark plug can improve how the engine starts and runs, and it’s a good idea to replace it every spring. New plugs are factory-set with a small gap between the electrodes at the tip. If there’s no gap, the plug is damaged.
TIP: Most socket wrench sets include spark-plug wrenches.

STEP 4

Sharpen blades and refill
For best results, sharpen blades a couple of times a year using a mill bastard file or grinder. Add petrol and oil (separately or pre-mixed) before mowing. TIP Always disconnect the spark-plug wire from the spark plug before reaching under the mower.

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