News > Rural Lifestyle > Outdoor Power Equipment Spring Checklist

Outdoor Power Equipment Spring Checklist

Apr 17, 2023

Your outdoor power equipment may need maintenance after sitting idle all winter. A quick inspection could add hours of life to your equipment and result in more efficient, reliable performance. The spring season is the perfect time for a tune-up and to make any necessary repairs before the grass and other vegetation overrun your lawn.
 
We’ve compiled a list of the most common maintenance tasks for riding mowers, push mowers, leaf blowers, and trimmers to make your job even easier!
 
Riding Lawn Mowers
  1. Make sure the battery is fully charged.
  2. Check the electrical for loose or dirty connections.
  3. Clean debris from the spark plug and replace if needed.
  4. Fully inflate all tires.
  5. Check the oil, oil filter, and air filter.
  6. Inspect the blades.
  7. Brush off all grass clippings caught in your mower deck.
 
Push Lawn Mowers
  1. Siphon and dispose of stale fuel.
  2. Sharpen the blades.
  3. Clean old grass clippings from the cutting deck.
  4. Ensure pull cords are not frayed.
  5. Check the oil, spark plugs, and air filters.
  6. Oil the wheel axles and control pivot points.
 
Leaf Blowers/Vacuum
  1. Make sure the bottom inlet cover or vacuum tube is locked in place.
  2. Check that all straps, handles, nuts, and bolts are secure.
  3. Brush off any debris from the air vents, cooling fins, and flywheel blades.
  4. Clean or replace the air filter.
  5. Remove the spark plug, clean it, and reinstall if it does not need to be replaced.
  6. Change the oil if using a gas blower.
 
Trimmers
  1. Make sure the spool is full.
  2. Clear cutter head of dirt or cuttings.
  3. Tighten all fasteners.
  4. Check and replace the air filter.
  5. Clean or replace the spark plug.
  6. Adjust the idle speed.
  7. Check and add oil if needed.
 
Your local Co-op carries a variety of hardware and repair parts for your outdoor power equipment needs. Don’t hesitate to stop by the store or give us a call with any questions. Find the nearest location here.
 
For more content like this, check out the latest issue of The Cooperator.
 
 

Read More News

The Art of Wood Stacking
Nov 30, 2023
As the familiar chill of winter sets in, there’s nothing quite like the warmth and ambiance of a crackling fire. For those who rely on wood-burning fireplaces to keep the cold at bay, the way you stack your wood is a crucial element in ensuring a steady and efficient heat source.
 
Savory Success
Nov 20, 2023
As Thanksgiving approaches, it may be time to elevate your cooking game and add a twist to your traditional turkey preparation. Smoking a turkey imparts a rich, flavorful taste that will have your guests coming back for seconds and thirds.
 
Begging for Leftovers
Nov 13, 2023
During the winter, it is more likely for farm dogs to sneak their way into our homes at night. After all, who can resist a pitiful pair of puppy dog eyes? If they are lucky, you will let them inside just after the sun sets, presenting them a golden opportunity for sniffing, scrounging, and begging under the kitchen table during your family’s dinnertime.