Lawn Mower Parts
In order to keep your lawn mower running smoothly for years to come, it is necessary to be knowledgeable about a few basic lawn mower parts. Understanding these lawn mower parts, their purpose, and how to maintain them will you keep your lawn mower running in tip-tip shape and save you money as you prevent causing costly damage.
The Engine
To keep your mower long lasting, you need to first take care of your lawn mower engine. The main problem encountered by the engine is dirt. Dirt kicks up continually while mowing, particularly in dry areas. These particles of dirt build up and ultimately clog the filter. The clogged filter reduces the amount of air reaching the engine, which causes the fuel mixture to become too rich. The poor fuel mixture causes the lawn mower to use too much fuel and to lose power. In addition, smoke can be created from burnt valves and unburned fuel. Failure to care for the engine can destroy many areas of the lawn mower and can be quite costly. For this reason, the first line of defense is replacing the air filter - one of the easiest and least expensive lawn mower parts to replace.
The Battery
Batteries are also among the simplest of lawn mower parts to care for. If properly maintained, lawn mower batteries can last several years. In order to ensure a long life, it is important to keep the contact key turned off. If this is left on too long, the battery will discharge in a matter of hours. Some lawn mowers include lights and, just like with cars, leaving these lights on can also result in battery drainage. Therefore, it is important to be sure all lights are turned off when you are done using the lawn mower.
The Blade
The blade of your lawn mower is essential to creating a beautiful and evenly mowed lawn. Therefore, it is especially important to keep the lawn mower blade sharpened. Dulled blades will cut grass unevenly and can even pull grass out from your lawn. In order to ensure your blades are sharp, you should check them every time before you begin mowing. If the blades are irregular or dull, they should be sharpened or replaced. As a part of your routine lawn more maintenance, blades should be replaced at least once per year.
The Tires
Lawn mower tires come in many different sizes and styles to suit different needs. If you will be using your lawn mower for hauling or other work requiring traveling on a paved road, you need different tires from the ones you use while mowing the lawn. Common types of tires include heavy duty, all-terrain, trail, and turf. Damaged tires should also be replaced immediately. It is not uncommon for a lawn mower to suffer from damage from hitting or running over objects. The whole tire is generally easy to replace entirely. In the case of large tires with a punctured inner tube, it is also possible to take the tire to a dealer to be repaired.
To make sure your lawn mower continues to run smoothly, you should take apart and clean all of your lawn mower parts at least once per year or every 6 months. Through proper care and maintenance of all your lawn mower parts, you will be sure to have a fine-tuned machine for years to come.