The cold front has swept across much of the northern United States. After frequent use in the summer and fall, it’s time to wrap up your lawn tractor. Winterizing a lawn tractor is an essential maintenance step to prepare it for the cold months ahead, ensuring it’s protected from winter’s harsh effects. FridayParts recommends that everyone put the machinery through a winterizing protocol if they are not going to use it for more than 60 days. So here comes the question, why do we need to winterize a lawn tractor, and how exactly do we do it? If you want to keep your equipment running at its best the next spring, here is an ultimate guide.
Why Do We Have to Winterize a Lawn Tractor?
During winters, low temperatures, increased humidity, and long periods of inactivity can cause several issues for a lawn tractor. The damages range from fuel degradation, battery drainage, and rust formation, to internal component wear. Here are some reasons why winterizing is necessary. It is just a warm reminder that the gasoline could break down over time, thus leading to clogs in the fuel system and carburetor. Also, If you leave the battery connected in cold weather, it will drain its charge and then reduce its lifespan. Humidity is one of the most sticky problems in winter as it could cause rust and corrosion on metal parts. But those troubles can be easily addressed through winterizing care.
Steps to Winterize a Lawn Tractor
To Winterize a lawn tractor, you have to give up the idea that this is difficult. It is not a scary proposition, instead, it is a much simpler procedure and it won’t take long. There are generally 5 steps for winterizing lawn tractors:
battery care, oil and filter change, fuel stabilizer add, tire inflation, and proper storage and tractor cover. But before you get your hands dirty, cleaning and inspections are also important preparations to do.
let’s make sure you have all the necessary tools at your disposal. Having these items on hand will make the process smoother and more efficient:
- Proper engine lubrication (Don’t know how to choose the right lubrication? Click here: How does season impact lubrication choice?)
- Oil filter
- Air filter (If necessary)
- Fuel stabilizer
- Fuel filter
- Fuel line hose
- Lubing grease
Cleaning & Inspections
Start by removing any grass, dirt, and debris that has accumulated under the mowing deck. This can be done manually or with a pressure washer but be cautious around bearings and lubricated parts to avoid forcing dirt into places it shouldn’t be. If any lubricant is washed away, make sure to reapply it. While cleaning, take the opportunity to inspect the deck, deck hanger, belts, and blades for any signs of damage or wear. Replace any worn belts to avoid issues next season and sharpen the blades at a 30-degree angle to keep them in optimal cutting condition. If the deck was removed for cleaning, now is the time to apply fresh lubrication to all moving parts.
Battery Care
As we wrap up our winterization process, let’s not forget about the heart of any machine that runs on electricity—the battery. Disconnecting the battery and storing it in a warm, dry place is crucial. Cold temperatures can sap the life out of your battery, reducing its ability to hold a charge. Before storage, clean the battery terminals to prevent corrosion, which can lead to poor connections and reduced performance. If you have a battery charger, give your battery a full charge before storage. This simple step can extend the life of your battery and ensure it’s ready for action when spring arrives.
Oil and Filter Change
Used oil can contain contaminants that may damage the engine if left sitting. Drain the old oil and replace it with fresh oil to protect the engine’s internal parts during months of inactivity. Installing a new oil filter helps to remove any impurities, preventing engine wear. Fresh oil acts as a protective layer, coating engine parts and reducing the risk of corrosion and buildup. This step is a small investment that will pay off with a smoother-running engine and longer engine life. In this procedure, check the air filter, too. Clean or replace it if it’s not clean and free of debris.
Fuel Stabilizer Add
Adding a fuel stabilizer is also an important step to winterize a lawn tractor. Gasoline can degrade when left sitting for an extended period, which can cause gummy residues and clog up the carburetor and fuel lines. To prevent this, fill the gas tank and add a fuel stabilizer, following the product’s recommended ratio. A full tank with a stabilizer prevents condensation from forming inside the tank, which could otherwise lead to rust and fuel contamination. After adding the stabilizer, run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the treated fuel through the carburetor and fuel lines, ensuring all components are protected.
Tire Inflation
Cold temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop, and tires left underinflated over winter can develop flat spots that affect performance. Check each tire’s pressure with a gauge and inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI. If you have a way to elevate the tractor off the ground, even partially, it’s a good idea to lift it to relieve pressure on the tires. Alternatively, moving the tractor periodically over the winter can also help prevent flat spots and preserve the tire shape.
Storage & Cover Considerations
Now that your lawn tractor is prepped and cleaned, it’s time to consider where it will spend the winter. Choose a dry, sheltered location that’s away from extreme temperatures. Moisture and temperature fluctuations can cause rust and other damage. If possible, elevate your tractor off the ground to prevent moisture buildup beneath it. A simple wooden pallet or a set of cinder blocks can do the trick. By the way, invest in a high-quality, waterproof cover to protect your tractor from dust, dirt, and moisture. A well-fitted cover will also help prevent animals like rats or squalls from eating inside your tractor over the winter months. Make sure the cover is breathable to allow for air circulation, which can help prevent mold and mildew.
Conclusion
Winterizing a lawn tractor doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these simple steps, you’re not only ensuring the longevity of your investment but also setting yourself up for a smooth and efficient start to your lawn care season come spring. A well-maintained lawn tractor is a joy to use, and with a little care and proper tractor replacement parts, you can enjoy that joy for many seasons to come.
