- Begin your mower's oil change with warm oil. Both methods work best if the engine and oil are warm. ...
- Remove the spark plug wire for safe lawn mower maintenance. Disconnect the spark plug wire and keep it away from the spark plug to prevent unintended starting.
- Clean the area around the oil tank. Wipe down the oil fill area to remove any debris.
- Remove the dipstick and prepare to drain the oil. ...
- Drain the Oil. How to Change Oil Using the Siphon Method: Manually siphon out the oil by manipulating the pump handle.
- Return the mower to an upright position. Carefully tilt the mower back in the opposite direction to rest on the wheels. ...
- Refill your machine with fresh oil. Refer to your operator's manual or engine owner's manual for the type and amount of oil needed to refill.
- Let the oil settle. Wait one to two minutes for the oil to settle into the engine of your walk-behind mower and then follow the instructions in the ...
- Clean up the work area. Properly dispose of the newspapers or other material you used to catch any drips. ...
- Reattach the spark plug wire. Reconnect the spark plug wire and refuel the engine if you used the tilt method so you're ready to mow.
How often should a lawn mower have its oil changed?
- Make sure the engine is turned off.
- Disconnect the spark plug wire, just to make sure the lawnmower doesn’t accidentally spark or start while you are changing the oil. ...
- Locate the oil plug and open it up
- Clean the dip stick shaft and drain plug areas with an old towel or rag.
- Remove the dip stick and set it aside. ...
How to do an oil change on a lawn mower?
- Warm up the engine to get the oil moving and kick up any debris so you can get it out. ...
- Turn off the engine. ...
- If you need to tip the mower to access the drain plug, prevent fuel spilling: remove the fuel tank, empty the fuel tank, or seal the fuel cap with a ...
- Note: Skip this if you have an oil extractor. ...
- Locate and clean around the drain plug. ...
How do I check and change lawn mower oil?
- Step 1: Stop the engine then disconnect the spark plug lead and secure it away from the spark plug. Then, locate the oil drain plug. ...
- Step 4: Add lawn mower oil to capacity (see your Operator's Manual ). Then, run the engine at idle and check for leaks. ...
- Step 5: Dispose of oil and soiled rags in accordance with local environmental statutes. ...
What to do if lawn mower ran out of oil?
Steps:
- Remove all parts near the cylinder head. ...
- Unbolt the intake, exhaust manifolds, as well as the valve covers to access the cylinder.
- Loosen the nuts securing the head then carefully lift the head off (seek a helping hand if necessary).
- Place a piece of wood on the piston (put it on top) to shield it.
- Whip out a mallet and strive to hammer the piston out.
How do you change the oil on a yard machine riding lawn mower?
0:262:21Riding Lawn Mower Oil Change Instructions - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe small end of the oil drain sleeve onto the oil sump remove the drain plug and drain the oil intoMoreThe small end of the oil drain sleeve onto the oil sump remove the drain plug and drain the oil into the catch container. When the oil stops dripping replace the drain plug remove the drain sleeve.
Where is the oil drain plug on a yard machine?
Find the drain plug on the side of the mower's engine. It will be near the bottom of the engine. On some models, it will be a small, black hose clamped to the engine with a square, threaded plug on the end. On other models, it will be a stationary metal tube with a square, threaded plug.
How much oil goes in a yard machine lawn mower?
Oil capacity is typically 48oz or 64 oz*. Change engine oil every 100 hours or annually, which ever comes first.
What kind of oil does a Yard Machine lawn mower use?
The SAE 10W30 works anywhere from zero degrees Fahrenheit to 100 degrees, but it gets consumed faster when used in temps over 80 degrees Fahrenheit, so keep an eye on levels during the summer. For the best bet, get a 10W30 or a synthetic 5W30 for all-season coverage. Do not use oil additives for your Yard Machine oil.
How do I drain the oil from my lawn mower?
0:071:16How to Change Lawn Mower Oil - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo put a sandwich bag over the opening and screw on the gas cap. Set an oil drain pan on the side ofMoreSo put a sandwich bag over the opening and screw on the gas cap. Set an oil drain pan on the side of the mower near the oil filler tube then tilt the mower.
How do you change the oil in a lawn mower without drain?
0:504:23How To Change The Oil In A Honda Lawnmower Without A Drain PlugYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWell there's two methods you can tip the lawnmower over and catch the oil in a drain pan or you canMoreWell there's two methods you can tip the lawnmower over and catch the oil in a drain pan or you can use an oil evacuator pump.
Does yard machine have oil filter?
As part of routine maintenance, it's important to check and replace your riding lawn mowers' engine oil and oil filter. Performing this maintenance as scheduled in your owner's manual will ensure your machines' engine performs as designed and will extend its service life.
Can I use 5w30 instead of SAE 30 in my lawn mower?
In most cases with a lawn mower engine, you'll be fine using SAE 30 vs 5w30.
Can you put too much oil in a lawn mower?
Too much oil in your lawn mower may cause the engine to not run well and cause damaging results. Too much oil can cause your engine to overheat which can result in seal damage, blown gaskets or becoming hydrolocked.
Can I use 10w40 instead of SAE 30 in my lawn mower?
However, in general, I probably wouldn't recommend using 10w40 instead of SAE 30 in your lawn mower. What is this? Most lawn mower engines are designed to use oil with a viscosity rating of 30. Because 10w40 has a higher viscosity, your engine might not be able to lubricate itself as easily.
Can you put 10W30 oil in a lawn mower?
10W30 is a common motor oil grade suitable for many lawn mowers. Your owner's manual will tell you the exact grade required, but in almost all cases 10W30 is the right stuff for a four-stroke engines. Any brand of oil that's suitable for cars or trucks will work fine in your mower.
Can I use 10W30 instead of SAE 30?
For smaller engines, such as lawnmowers, 10w30 will work better because SAE 30 may be too thick for their parts. If your car is older, you might want to consider using SAE 30 in the warmer months and swapping to 10w30 when the weather starts to change.
How do I change the oil in my yard machine 550ex?
1:085:10Easy Oil Change - Briggs and Stratton 550EX - Troy Bilt, Craftsman, SnapperYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou don't run your thing out of gas. What will happen is you'll end up spilling fuel all over theMoreYou don't run your thing out of gas. What will happen is you'll end up spilling fuel all over the motor. And that's not something you want to do. Step 1 just pop your filler cap off and your dipstick.
Where is the oil drain plug on a Briggs and Stratton?
Typically, however, on vertical shaft engines, the oil drain plug is located beneath the engine block near the crankshaft. To remove the square plug, all that is required is a standard size 3/8" ratchet and extension (no socket).
Does yard machine have oil filter?
As part of routine maintenance, it's important to check and replace your riding lawn mowers' engine oil and oil filter. Performing this maintenance as scheduled in your owner's manual will ensure your machines' engine performs as designed and will extend its service life.
How do you drain oil from a Kohler engine?
0:031:59Kohler Engines Oil Change - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe drain plug. And the fill cap give plenty of time for the oil the oil to drain out and be sure toMoreThe drain plug. And the fill cap give plenty of time for the oil the oil to drain out and be sure to dispose of it responsibly. Now remove the oil filter. And wipe off the mounting pad.
How to stop gas from spilling on mower?
Use a hand siphon hose from auto or hardware store to empty gas from the tank. This prevents spillage onto mower deck & prevent possible fire if ignited by spark plug later. A damaged spark plug wire or plug may ignite any gas spilled. ...
How to drain a petrol tank?
First, drain the tank of the petrol using the same technique used on the oil. Then, leave the tank open in a place where air can flow through the tank in order that the remaining petrol evaporates, making sure that no debris makes its way into the tank.
What to wear when handling oil?
Use caution while handling used oil as can be a source of harmful chemicals. It is recommended you wear rubber, latex, vinyl or synthetic gloves.If not wash hands using a reliable grease or oil removal detergent immediately after you are done.
How many people edit wikihow?
wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 16 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 156,146 times.
How long is a scuba diving cap good for?
If it has been opened and especially if it has been sitting out for a long time, moisture may build up, but as long as the cap is still on, it should be good for a few years. Thanks!
Do lawn mowers need oil changed?
Lawn mowers, like cars, need their oil changed every now and then. Not changing the oil in a lawn mover can significantly reduce its lifespan. If you are wondering how to change the oil in your lawn mover, then you came to the right place. This wikiHow will tell you how you can change the oil in a lawn mover.
Can you put plastic wrap over a gas cap on a lawn mower?
Yes, but remove the gas cap first, and put some plastic wrap over it. Put the gas cap back on, then go ahead and turn your mower on its side to drain oil. The plastic wrap keeps the gas from leaking out. Once the oil change is done, remove the plastic wrap from the gas cap. Thanks!
How to clean a lawn mower with cold oil?
1. Set the mower on a level, hard surface. Start the engine and let it run for 1 to 2 minutes to warm the oil. Warm oil drains easier than cold oil. Turn off the mower.
Can you use a siphon to drain oil from a lawn mower?
Some automotive stores accept used motor oil. Instead of tipping the mower to drain the oil, a siphon can be used to suck the oil out of the engine. When tipping the mower to drain the oil, never tip it so the air filter side is down toward the ground.
Can dirt enter oil fill tube?
Do not allow dirt or debris to enter the oil fill tube. It can damage the engine. Diana K. Williams is a certified Master Gardener, has more than a decade of experience as an environmental scientist, and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in biology and environmental studies from the Ohio Northern University.
What to do if your muffler is smoking?
If while tipping, some oil drains from the muffler, wipe the access oil with a rag, when restarting the engine, allow the oil to burn off as smoke. If the engine smokes excessively, see your local Briggs & Stratton Dealer.
How long does it take to change the oil on a lawn mower?
Heavy usage requires changing the oil after 25 hours of use, follow the directions in your owner’s operators manual to provide your lawn mower with the attention it requires or view the video for directions. The following are acceptable oil drain methods: Through the dipstick tube. Through the drain plug. By using an oil extractor tool.
Where is the drain plug on a lawn mower?
If your engine is equipped with a drain plug, it would be located under the lawn mower deck. Look carefully as the drain plug may be obstructed by clumps of turf or debris, the belt guard or the mower blade (use caution when moving the blade).
Where to find oil recommendations for Briggs and Stratton?
Oil recommendations are located in your engines operator’s manual. You should see your local Briggs & Stratton Dealer if your oil level is too high and you did not overfill the engine with oil, your oil level is consistently too low and there are leaks on the engine or stains underneath, your engine smokes excessively.
Does moving the blade on a muffler cause oil to smoke?
Note: if you must move the blade to get at the drain plug, do so slowly and with the spark plug removed. Moving the blade may cause excess oil to appear in the muffler, if this occurs, the oil will smoke in the muffler the next time the engine is started. This is only temporary, the smoking will subside and soon stop.
When to drain engine oil?
Drain the engine oil when the engine is warm, this allows the oil to suspend any internal debris in the oil and doing so will allow for impurities to drain, along with the oil.
Do all engines have a drain plug?
Not all engines have a drain plug, your operator’s manual will help identify the location and type of drain plug, if equipped. Depending on the age and type of your motor, you may have one of several types of drain plugs. Each drain plug uses a different tool.
How to change oil for siphon?
Preparing to Change the Oil for the Siphon Method: Using the Arnold Siphon Pump, insert the pump/siphon tube into the dipstick tube until it reaches the bottom of the engine. Place the other end of the pump/siphon tube on the bottom of the approved oil container.
How long does it take for oil to settle in a walk behind mower?
Wait one to two minutes for the oil to settle into the engine of your walk-behind mower and then follow the instructions in the manual for checking the oil level. After you're finished, replace the dipstick.
What is the temperature of SAE 5W30?
Oil comes in different weights meant for operating in different seasonal temperatures. SAE 5W30 is intended for 40 degrees Fahrenheit down to -30 degrees Fahren heit, so it's unlikely you'll be mowing the lawn much in those temperatures. A synthetic SAE 5W30, though, offers the coverage for varying climates, working well anywhere from 100 degrees ...
How hot is a SAE 30?
If you live somewhere with a warm climate, SAE 30 is designed for 40 degrees Fahrenheit through to 100 degrees. The SAE 10W30 works anywhere from zero degrees Fahrenheit to 100 degrees, but it gets consumed faster when used in temps over 80 degrees Fahrenheit, so keep an eye on levels during the summer. For the best bet, get a 10W30 ...
Why do lawn mowers need oil?
They require oil for the same reason your car does – to keep moving parts lubricated and to protect the life of your investment. Advertisement. What Type of Oil Does a Yard Machine Lawn Mower Use? Image Credit: WadeMachin/iStock/GettyImages.
What happens if you overfill your oil canister?
When you overfill the oil, a few things can go wrong. If you're lucky, it's just a little excess and it'll burn off while the engine heats, causing the engine to produce white smoke. This should settle down. But other problems can cause more grief – all solvable but still worth avoiding by filling the canister cautiously. One issue can be the spark plugs fouling. If oil gets on these, they won't spark and the engine won't start. Plugs can be cleaned or replaced. Another problem can be oil getting on the filter, which can clog it and starve the engine for air, resulting in the engine failing to start or sputtering and dying. The filter can also be cleaned or replaced.
Is Briggs and Stratton synthetic oil warranty compliant?
Briggs & Stratton recently amended its warranty coverage to stipulate that synthetic oil is now considered warranty-compliant. Synthetic oil has been engineered to resist heat better, slowing down its degradation and giving what some feel is better protection for your engine.
Who is Steffani Cameron?
Steffani Cameron. Steffani Cameron is the daughter of a realtor and interior decorator mother and a home contractor father. Steffani is a professional writer with over five years' experience writing about the home for BuildDirect and Bob Vila.
Can you use additives on yard machine oil?
Do not use oil additives for your Yard Machine oil. These are unneeded and can, in fact, void your warranty coverage. Finally, ensure the oil is marked as "For Service Class SF, SG, SH" or higher. These indicate engine manufacture years.
Why use a degreaser on lawn mowers?
A degreaser can be part of your regular maintenance tools that every time you work on your lawn mower engine, it needs to be there to clean out oil spillage and other dirt.
Why is my lawn mower not lubricating?
Because there’s not enough oil for lubrication, this may result in damaging the unlubricated parts of the engine and ultimately causing the engine to break down. It’s like burning your machine inside when lubrication is insufficient. On the other hand, overfilling your lawn mower with engine oil will also result in bad consequences.
How to measure oil level in a reservoir?
When measuring, dip the dipstick for a few seconds inside the reservoir without unscrewing the cap. Take out the dipstick, hold it in an upright position and read the measurement. Oil level that is between the marks of High and Low is an ideal level.
How much oil does a Honda lawn mower use?
In most Honda lawn mowers, their oil capacities are commonly .55 liters. But then again, don’t just rely on the amount of oil recommended by some companies but rely more on your measuring tool which in this case is simply the “dipstick”.
What does the dipstick indicate?
These indicate the low, medium and high level for oil measurement. Regardless if you are adding oil or changing oil use the dipstick to measure the level of oil.
What type of oil do I use for a lawn mower?
Some types of lawn mowers can also use multi-viscosity engine oils such as 10W-30 or higher. If you are unsure about the right choice of oil, here are the types of graded oil that can provide the best performance on certain weather conditions.
Why do you need a dipstick for oil?
But for every addition of oil, you must use the dipstick to ensure you won’t exceed your desired amount of oil. You can use a funnel to make pouring oil easy.
