December 19th, 2024
As summer approaches, keeping your garden looking its best becomes a top priority. The lush growth of the season demands well-maintained tools, especially your lawnmower, hedge trimmers and rototillers. Neglecting these essential machines can lead to frustrating breakdowns, costly repairs and headaches that interrupt your gardening routine. By following simple yet effective maintenance tips, you can ensure your equipment is ready to tackle the summer workload and keep your lawn and garden in pristine condition.
Maintaining Your Lawnmower
Lawnmowers require regular maintenance to ensure they perform effectively and have a long lifespan. From cleaning out grass clippings to sharpening the blades and caring for the engine, keeping your lawnmower in good condition is essential for a healthy, well-manicured lawn.
Clear Grass Clippings & Debris From Under The Deck After Each Use
- After mowing, make sure the mower is turned off and the spark plug is disconnected for safety.
- Tip the mower gently to the side (with the carburetor facing up to prevent leaks) and use a brush or scraper to clear grass clippings from under the deck.
- Rinse the underside with a hose if needed and dry thoroughly to prevent rust.
Maintaining Cylinder Mowers For Optimal Performance
Cylinder mowers require precise maintenance to ensure clean cuts and efficient operation. Regular attention to blades and chains can extend their lifespan and maintain cutting accuracy.
- Remove grass clippings, dirt and debris from the blades, chains and the mower frame after each use. This prevents buildup that could hinder performance or cause corrosion.
- Regularly lap the blades to maintain a razor-sharp edge. Blade lapping ensures the cutting cylinder and bottom blade work together effectively, providing a clean, even cut and reducing stress on the mower.
- Apply grease to the chains to reduce friction, prevent rust and enhance their durability. Consistent lubrication helps ensure smooth, reliable operation of the mower’s drivetrain.
- Check the clearance between the cutting cylinder and the bottom blade regularly. Proper adjustment ensures efficient cutting action and prevents damage to the blades or grass.
- Ensure the chain tension is correct. Loose chains may slip and disrupt the mower’s operation, while overly tight chains can cause premature wear on the drivetrain components.
Perform Regular Oil Changes & Keep The Air Filter Clean
Check the oil level before each use and change the oil according to your mower’s manual, usually once or twice a season. Use the recommended type of oil for your model.
Also inspect the air filter regularly, and if it appears dirty, clean it or replace it with a new one. A clean air filter ensures optimal airflow and prevents the engine from overheating.
Sharpen The Blades At Least Once A Season
Remove the blades carefully and use a sharpening tool or take them to a professional for sharpening. Be sure to balance the blades after sharpening to prevent uneven cuts and vibrations. Reattach the blades securely before using the mower.
PRO TIP: Spray blades with INOX MX3 to create a grass-resistant coating for easier cleaning.
Drain The Fuel Before Storing The Mower For The Winter
At the end of the mowing season, either run the mower until the fuel tank is empty or use a fuel syphon to drain the gas. You can also add a fuel stabiliser to prevent the fuel from breaking down if you prefer to leave some gas in the tank. Store the mower in a cool, dry place to protect it from the elements.
Maintaining Your Hedge Trimmers
Hedge trimmers are essential for keeping your garden looking neat, but they can be challenging to maintain due to sap buildup and blade dullness.
Sharpen The Blades Regularly
- Secure the trimmers in a vise or hold them firmly on a stable surface.
- Angle your flat file, sharpening stone or a power tool tool to match the blade’s edge and make smooth, even strokes along the blade.
- Repeat on each tooth of the blade, ensuring consistent sharpness throughout.
Sharpen the blades every few months or more often if you use the trimmers frequently.
- Apply a degreaser or a specific blade cleaner to the blades and let it sit for a few minutes to break down the residue.
- Use a cloth or brush to wipe away the sap, then dry thoroughly. This process keeps the blades moving freely and maintains cutting power.
Follow the directions outlined for your chosen degreasing product for best results.
Lubricate The Blades With INOX
- Apply a light, even coat of INOX MX3 or LANOX MX4 along the blades.
- Move the blades manually to distribute the oil evenly and ensure complete coverage.
- Wipe off any excess oil with a cloth to prevent dripping.
Lubricate after every use or at least once a month, especially if you frequently trim dense or sappy plants.
Maintaining Your Rototillers & Cultivators
Rototillers and cultivators are powerful machines designed to handle tough soil conditions, but frequent exposure to dirt, rocks and roots can wear down the tines and cause clogs or damage.
Clean The Tines After Each Use
- After each use, turn off the machine and make sure it has completely cooled down.
- Use a brush or a hose to remove soil and plant material from the tines. For stubborn clumps, use a scraper or putty knife.
- Ensure the tines are completely dry before storing the machine to prevent rust.
Inspect For Damage & Replace Worn Or Broken Parts
Regularly inspect the tines and surrounding parts for signs of wear, cracks or damage. If you notice any issues, replace the tines or broken components immediately to maintain performance. Refer to your user manual for instructions on replacing parts.
Damaged or worn tines can reduce the effectiveness of the machine and put unnecessary strain on the motor.
Keep All Moving Parts Well-Lubricated & Check Engine Maintenance
- Use INOX MX3 to lubricate the moving parts, such as the tine shafts and any pivot points. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for lubrication frequency!
- For gas-powered models, check the oil level regularly and change it according to the manual’s schedule. Use fresh fuel and add a fuel stabiliser if you plan to store the machine for an extended period.
Keep Your Garden & Lawn Beautiful All Summer
Giving your garden tools the proper care they deserve is a small effort that pays off big, especially during the busy summer months. Find INOX at your nearest retailer and give your equipment the protection it needs to keep your yard looking pristine.