Spring Starts in Autumn
The season is over. You're ready to park the mower and forget about it until spring. Stop! How you put your machine away determines whether it starts in April or ends up on our waitlist. Here is the proper storage routine for the Northeast climate.
1. Drain or Stabilize?
For most steel-tank engines, we recommend draining the tank completely and running the engine until it dies to clear the carburetor. For plastic tanks, filling it full with fresh, stabilized fuel prevents condensation build-up.
2. The Fogging Oil Trick
Remove the spark plug and spray a little fogging oil into the cylinder. Pull the starter cord slowly once to coat the piston rings. This prevents internal rust that can seize an engine over winter.
3. Battery Care
If you have an electric start mower or tractor, remove the battery and bring it inside. Cold garages in New York kill batteries. Keep it on a trickle charger if possible.
4. Generator Winterization
Don't forget your generator! Storm season can hit anytime. Run your generator for 20 minutes with a load (like a space heater) to dry out the windings, change the oil, and add stabilizer to the fuel so it's ready when the power goes out.
5. Clean the Deck
Grass clippings trapped under the deck hold moisture and turn acidic, rotting out your mowing deck in just a few seasons. Scrape it clean before parking it.
Need help winterizing? We offer pickup service! Call 914 413 1932.