Regularly topping up engine oil is not enough. Every time the lawn is mowed, the oil loses its lubricity due to the effects of heat and dirt particles. An oil change solves the problem and contributes significantly to the long life of your valuable petrol mower. This guide gives tips on how often it makes sense to change engine oil and explains how to do it.
How often should a lawnmower oil change be done?
With normal use, a lawn mower oil change should be carried out once a year, ideally in spring. For heavier use, it is recommended to change it every 25 hours of operation and for new lawn mowers after 5 to 6 hours of operation.
Annual oil change is good – every 25 hours is better
When freshly filled, engine oil in the crankcase shimmers gold to amber. Heat, dirt, dust and grass residue cause the oil to darken, which noticeably impairs its lubricity. The more difficult the conditions when mowing the lawn, the faster lawn mower oil loses its effectiveness. In practice, the following oil change intervals have proven to be effective:
- Commercial 4-stroke lawn mower with normal use: once a year, ideally in spring
- Heavy-used petrol mower: every 25 operating hours
- Newly run-in lawnmower: first oil change after 5 to 6 hours of operation
If you own one of the rare types of lawn mowers with a 2-stroke engine, the oil is burned at the same time as the gasoline, so an oil change is not part of the care and maintenance program.
Change lawnmower oil correctly – this is what you should pay attention to
An oil change on a lawnmower should always be done when the engine is warm, because this way more suspended particles are removed than when the engine is cold. In addition to the right type of oil, a collection container (€16.00 on Amazon) is the most important utensil. How to proceed professionally:
- Start the lawnmower and let it run for a few minutes
- Stop the engine and remove the spark plug connector
- Place the collecting container under the oil pan
- Unscrew the oil drain screw counterclockwise
- Allow all used oil to drain into the collection container
Then tighten the oil drain screw clockwise. Now open the filler neck. Using a funnel, fill the fresh oil into the tank to just below the maximum mark and put the lid on. Start the lawnmower again to inspect the engine for leaks while idling.
Tip
Clean your lawn mower carefully after changing the oil. Even the smallest residue on the mowing deck will burn as blue-white smoke the next time you mow the lawn and give you a real scare. Therefore, wipe the device thoroughly with a damp cloth and a degreasing cleaner.
