Like any piece of machinery, your ride-on mower will only perform at its best if it’s well maintained. Keeping your mower in top condition will ensure that it lasts longer, too. Here are a few essential tips that you should know.
Storage and maintenance tips
The petrol that you use in your ride-on can deteriorate over time and cause damage to the tank itself, so either add a stabiliser or remove excess fuel before you store the machine.
Like with any engine exposure to moisture, such as rain, can cause damage, so always store your ride-on in a covered area like your shed, garage or outhouse. Make sure that you clean your machine properly before you store it away. Leaving excess wet or dry grass and mud on the machine can cause corrosion.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when it comes to oil changes and charging the battery. They’re there for a reason and will generally ensure you get the best performance from your lawnmower.
Check the blades regularly to see if they are becoming worn and need replacing. Blunt blades will affect the efficiency of the cut. Belts are another part of your machine that can wear over time and affect performance, so they should be checked regularly for signs of wear or fatigue. If you’re looking for a particular brand of spare part, such as Mountfield Spares, https://www.diyspareparts.com/ sell a wide range of genuine parts at competitive prices.
You should also keep in mind that any type of gardening machinery can be dangerous if it’s not operated correctly or used when it’s not properly maintained. The Royal Society For The Prevention Of Accidents (RoSPA) provides some great tips for staying safe while gardening.
Cutting advice
How and where you use your ride-on lawnmower can also affect performance and safety. Try not to cut on slopes that are too steep; generally no more than fifteen degrees is recommended.
Make sure that you have the settings right for the type of terrain you’re cutting. For example, if you’re cutting an uneven surface, the height should be set high and the speed should be slow.
Check for large pieces of debris on the lawn you’re cutting. They can damage the machine, and they can even be thrown up and cause personal injury.