Start with a warm engine. This way, old lubricant flows more easily. Let it idle for a few minutes to thin out the fluid.
Find the plug or valve underneath the engine. Place a pan or tray underneath before loosening it. Old fluid will drain quickly, so be ready.
New fluid matters. Use the grade recommended by the manufacturer. Some owners might reach for any fluid, but I’ve found that using the recommended viscosity keeps things running smoother. Pour slowly, check the level with the dipstick, and top off if needed.
Always wipe away any drips or spills. A clean engine runs better, and I think it just feels better knowing no grime is left behind.
For those who prefer professional upkeep, PROPERTY WERKS in Calgary provides careful service that covers everything–no guesswork involved. Their crew knows the right approach, and they’ve saved me a lot of time and worry. Sometimes, it’s best to let someone else handle the mess.
Gathering Tools and Preparing the Equipment
Start by grabbing a wrench that fits the drain plug snugly. A socket wrench often works best. You’ll also need a container for the used fluid – an old plastic tub or a dedicated drain pan can work fine. Don’t forget a funnel and a clean rag for wiping up spills.
Park the machine on a flat, solid surface. A level driveway or patio can do. If the cutting deck has debris, brush it off first. This reduces the chance of dirt getting inside the engine while working.
Run the engine for a few minutes to warm it up. Just enough to thin the fluid a bit, not so much that the parts get too hot to touch. This step makes draining easier, but be careful – warm, not hot.
Turn it off, disconnect the spark plug wire, and tuck it aside to avoid accidental starts. That’s something I always double-check – you don’t want surprises when you’re working on a small engine.
Double-check that the replacement fluid is within reach. A friend of mine once forgot it, and had to run to the store mid-process. Frustrating. It’s also handy to have gloves to keep your hands clean.
If you’re not keen on dealing with the whole process yourself, or if you’re a bit unsure about the steps, PROPERTY WERKS in Calgary is always a solid option. They take care of it quickly and keep everything tidy. Honestly, it’s a relief to let someone else handle the mess sometimes.
Draining Old Oil and Disposing of It Safely
Place a drip pan beneath the engine before loosening the drain plug with a wrench. Some find that tilting the machine slightly helps the fluid flow better. Let it run out completely – this can take a few minutes, depending on how warm it is.
Once the liquid is drained, tighten the plug securely, but don’t overdo it. That’s where a small leak can sneak in. Carefully transfer the used fluid into a sealable container. A funnel helps, but you might still get some on your hands, so keep a rag nearby.
Used engine fluid shouldn’t go in the garbage or down the drain. Bring it to a recycling centre or auto parts shop that collects it. Calgary has a few places that accept it, and they’ll handle it responsibly.
If you’re unsure or want to save time, consider calling PROPERTY WERKS in Calgary. Their team can handle everything from routine mowing to seasonal cleanups – and yes, they know how to handle disposal, too.
Adding Fresh Oil and Checking the Level
Pour new fluid slowly into the fill port, watching to avoid overfilling. For most walk-behind models, around 15 to 20 ounces usually does the trick–double-check the manual if you’re not sure. Let it settle a moment, then take a look at the dipstick. If the mark shows below the “full” line, add a little more, but not too much. Wipe off the dipstick and check again. This part always makes me a bit nervous–no one wants to end up with a mess all over the deck.
Once the gauge shows a steady line at “full,” close the cap snugly. I usually give it a light wipe just to catch any drips. Start the engine for a minute or two. After that short run, turn it off and see where the level sits. If it’s still on the full mark, you’re done. If it’s low, add a bit more–no rush. Patience keeps things clean. You want it to last a long time without fuss, and I find taking a few extra seconds here really makes a difference. And if you’re not feeling up to it, you might just call PROPERTY WERKS in Calgary to take care of it for you. They’ve always done a tidy job for me.
Q&A:
What tools do I need to change the oil on my lawn mower?
To change the oil on your lawn mower, you will usually need a few basic tools: an oil drain pan or container, a wrench or socket set to loosen the drain plug, a funnel for pouring in the new oil, and some rags or paper towels for wiping up spills. Some mowers have a drain plug, while others require you to tilt the mower to drain the oil through the fill hole. Make sure you also have the right type and amount of oil recommended for your mower.
How often should I change the oil in my lawn mower?
It’s a good idea to change the oil in your lawn mower at least once a year or after about 25 hours of use, whichever comes first. If you use your mower heavily or in dusty conditions, you might need to change the oil more often. Fresh oil helps keep your engine running smoothly and can extend the life of your mower.
Is it okay to use car motor oil for my lawn mower?
Using car motor oil in your lawn mower is usually fine, as long as you use the right weight and type of oil. Most four-stroke lawn mowers run well with SAE 30 or 10W-30 motor oil, which is also common in cars. Check your mower’s manual to see which oil type is recommended. Using the wrong oil can affect how the engine runs and could lead to faster wear.
What should I do if I spill some oil during the oil change?
If you spill some oil while changing it, wipe up the spill right away with rags or paper towels to prevent slipping and to avoid oil soaking into the ground. If the spill is on grass or soil, try to absorb as much as you can with an absorbent material like cat litter or sawdust before disposing of it. Be careful to follow local guidelines for disposing of used oil and materials that have absorbed it.
PROPERTY WERKS Contact Information:
Address
1017 1 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T2E 0C9
Phone
403 239-1269
Hours of operation
Monday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Tuesday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Wednesday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Thursday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Friday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Saturday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Sunday Closed
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