
Instructions
- Step 1: Begin your mower's oil change with warm oil ...
- Step 2: Remove the spark plug wire for safe lawn mower maintenance ...
- Step 3: Clean the area around the oil tank ...
- Step 4: Remove the dipstick and prepare to drain the oil ...
- Step 5: Drain the Oil ...
- Step 6: Return the mower to an upright position ...
- Step 7: Refill your machine with fresh oil ...
How often do lawn mowers need an oil change?
Lawn mowers usually require a change in oil every 20 to 50 hours after usage. However, it still depends on your lawn mower’s type, model, and engine. Usually, a new lawn mower would require you to change its oil after five hours of its first use.
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. ...
How often to change lawn mower oil?
change oil after the first 5 hours of use. For continuous use of lawn mower, ideally, change the oil every 25 hours. For regular maintenance, do an oil change at the start of the mowing season. For old lawn mowers, always check the oil after a day’s work with a dipstick and change the oil when it gets murky.

Where is the oil drain plug on a yard machine?
0:375:37Oil change on Yard Machines push mower - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipGot some blocks of wood propping it up in the back. And you'll see there's a hole here that's toMoreGot some blocks of wood propping it up in the back. And you'll see there's a hole here that's to drain the oil so you'll remove this plug here.
How much oil does a yard machine riding mower take?
Riding mowers: Oil capacity is typically 48oz or 64 oz*. Change engine oil every 100 hours or annually, which ever comes first.
How often should I change the oil in my riding lawn mower?
For existing riding mowers, it is recommended to change and replace the oil at least once a season, or for every 100 hours of run time.
How do I drain the oil from my lawn mower?
0:121:16How 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.
Can I use 10w30 instead of SAE 30 in my lawn mower?
Can I use 10w30 instead of SAE 30 in my lawnmower? Yes, both are suitable for lawnmowers. If your mower is older, the SAE 30 will offer more protection. Some small engines may have a hard time with the thicker oil.
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.
Should I run lawn mower before changing oil?
Run the lawn mower engine for 15 minutes to warm up the oil (imperative to remove all dirty debris from engine)
What happens if you don't change oil in lawn mower?
If you don't change oil in your lawn mower, the oil becomes very dirty and breaks down. The oil loses its cooling agents and detergents which can cause significant damage to your engine. People often don't think about putting money into their mower until the mower doesn't start or encounters other engine problems.
How do you know if your lawn mower needs an oil change?
Check the DipstickIf the oil level is fine and the oil appears clean and dark amber in color, you can go ahead and mow the lawn; your engine oil is fine.If the oil appears clean but the reading is low, add oil before mowing.If your lawn mower's oil appears dirty, it's time to change the oil.
How do you change the oil in a lawn mower without drain plug?
0:061:25Easiest Way To Change Lawnmower Oil - NO TOOLS - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSometimes really hard to get off it makes a big mess. So instead what you can do is just take theMoreSometimes really hard to get off it makes a big mess. So instead what you can do is just take the Phils plug. Out. Get yourself a catch pan. All yours all the oil.
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).
Can you use regular motor oil in a lawn mower?
SAE 30 motor oil is commonly recommended for use in a lawn mower engine, but the safest best is to use the type of oil your lawn mower manufacturer recommends. Often 10W-30 or 10W-40, the same motor oil types that are used in vehicles, can also be used in a lawn mower.
How much oil does my mower need?
Most small engines need 20 to 24 fluid ounces of oil. Small engines typically use SAE 30 single-weight detergent motor oil service-rated SG or higher, but some can use multiviscosity oils such as 10W-30 or 10W-40. Fill the crankcase slowly. Keep tabs on the oil level by checking with the dipstick as you add oil.
How much oil does a MTD lawn mower take?
When purchasing oil for seasonal maintenance, most small engines (such as those on push mowers) have total capacities of less than one quart (32 oz.) and most medium size engines (such as those found on residential snow throwers and riding mowers) have total capacities of less than two quarts (64 oz.).
What kind of oil does a MTD lawn mower use?
SAE 30 the most common, and is is typically used in warmer climates. SAE 10W-30 is best for varying temperature ranges and is best for starting in cold climates. The trade off here is the potential for higher oil consumption. Synthetic oil is also an option for your riding lawn mower.
How many quarts of oil does a Craftsman riding mower take?
The 19.5 hp lawn tractors take 48 U.S. fluid ounces, or 1.5 U.S. quarts, of detergent motor oil at each oil change. The oil must conform to API service classification SF, SG or SH. When operating at air temperatures above 32 degrees Fahrenheit, use SAE 30 motor oil.
How to tighten an oil filter?
To provide the proper seal, lightly coat the new oil filter's gasket with fresh engine oil before installing it. Install the oil filter by hand until the gasket touches the oil filter adapter. Then, tighten the filter using an oil filter wrench. Reference your operator's manual for further instructions on tightening the filter properly.
How to drain oil from a siphon pump?
Place a container with a capacity of no less than 64 ounces under the oil-drain sleeve or position it to catch the oil from the Siphon Pump. Remove the drain plug, and drain the oil into the container. When the oil has completely drained, wipe the area around the oil drain and replace the drain plug.
What type of oil should I use?
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. Always change the oil after the first 5 hours of use. This is known as the engine break-in period. Follow the instructions below to inspect and replace the engine oil and oil filter.
How to check oil level on a dipstick?
Replace and tighten the dipstick. Then, remove the dipstick and check the oil level. It should be at the top of the "full" indicator on the dipstick. If required, add oil and re-check. If full, wipe the dipstick clean with a cloth, replace the dipstick, and tighten.
What are the parts of a riding lawn mower?
When you need parts for your riding lawn mower, you can use the MTD Genuine Parts Part Finder to find the correct one. Common parts include: 1 Filters 2 Blades 3 Belts
Can you use the wrong oil on a riding mower?
Using the wrong type and/or weight of oil can cause premature engine wear and even failure. If your engine has an oil filter, also check the operator's manual regarding the correct replacement. Note that if your riding mower is damaged from hitting an object in your yard or has complicated engine trouble, it is best to take it to ...
Is synthetic oil good for riding mowers?
The trade off here is the potential for higher oil consumption. Synthetic oil is also an option for your riding lawn mower. SAE 5W-30 is a great all-around alternative to conventional oil. As always, consult your owner's manual before adding oil to your equipment. Using the wrong type and/or weight of oil can cause premature engine wear ...
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.
When tipping a mower to drain oil, should you never tip it?
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.
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.
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 get rid of dirt in 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. Using a fan and waiting 24 hours would be the safest option, and be sure not to let any dirt or bugs get into the tank in the meantime.
Why does oil lose viscosity?
Not unlike a car, if oil has been used beyond it's engine protection limit, it loses viscosity. Another reason could be your engine needs serviced.
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.
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 flush engine oil?
No. You can flush with engine oil itself until you see clear oil come through the drain plug .
Where should oil be when engine is cold?
Oil should be at the full mark of the dip stick or the top of the filler reservoir.
How to Check Oil Level
Checking the oil while the engine is cold and most of the oil is in the crankcase yields the most accurate reading.
Follow These Steps to Change your Oil
First, start by checking the oil level on your dipstick. The oil level of the dipstick should be between the two holes on the dipstick. Overfilling your engine can be just as bad as using old oil so make sure to check your dipstick level regularly.
When to Change Lawn Mower Oil
First, you need to know when it is the right time to change your lawn mower oil. Ideally, you should change the oil; ⦁ At the end of every mowing season or after every 50 hours of cutting. ⦁ After the first five hours of mowing if you have a new lawn mower engine.
How to Check Lawn Mower Oil
To accurately determine the right time to change lawn mower oil, be sure to check the oil when the engine is cold. You do this by removing the dipstick and wiping it clean and then inserting it inside the engine. Typically, the oil level should be between the two marks on the dipstick. Also, your lawn mower oil should be yellow or amber in color.
