Lawn Tractor Maintenance

A gray/black lawn tractor sits on the grass, big threes in the background

Maintain Your Lawn Tractor for Maximum Reliability and Service

Once you’ve invested in a powerful, efficient lawn tractor, you’ll never want to go back to a plain old mower. We see how they win people over with their versatility and ease of use as they play an essential role in your landscape maintenance by mowing, towing, blowing, and more.

If you want it to last a long time -- and of course you do! -- it’s vital to maintain it properly. While you can certainly rely on our trained and trusted techs at Ryan Equipment Center to do the job, here are some tips for our DIY (do it yourself) readers.

For questions and service appointments, reach out to the team in Hartselle, Alabama, near Decatur and Cullman.


Close up of a manual instructions

Read Your Manual

We always advise you to read your owner’s manual. Get acquainted with how your tractor works, what the maintenance schedule is, and what products the manufacturer recommends, such as the oil weight. The more familiar you are with your machine, the easier it will be to perform maintenance. You’ll also get a better sense of what’s normal and what’s out of whack.

Routine Engine Maintenance

Give the engine routine maintenance, and it will perform faithfully for a long time. Follow your manual’s instructions and intervals for these tasks:

  • Replacing the fuel filter 
  • Cleaning/replacing the air filter 
  • Changing the oil and filter 
  • Replacing the spark plug(s)

Keep the Mower Deck Clean

Keeping your mower deck clean will prolong the life of belts and pulleys. To do this, remove the belt guards and blow off all debris with an air compressor. If there’s built-up crud under the pulleys, dislodge it gently with a screwdriver. While you might expect the belt guards to keep grass clippings out, they actually tend to suck them in and trap them. The debris will deteriorate your belts and pulleys, so do this every three or four times you mow.

Choose the Right Oil

Always add oil of the correct viscosity. Winter operation dictates a different weight of oil. Always replace the filter when you change the oil. Wipe down any drips while they’re fresh so they don’t cook onto your machine. Please dispose of all waste oil responsibly.

Change the Blade

A dull blade makes the belts and engine work harder, and it’s not good for the grass either. Many folks like to keep a backup blade, so you can swap the dull blade with a sharp blade and take your dull blade in for professional sharpening, then have it ready for the next swap.

We look forward to helping keep your multipurpose mowing machine running like new here at Ryan Equipment Center. Please keep us in mind for service and sales of new outdoor power equipment in Hartselle, Alabama, near Decatur and Cullman.

Close up of an orange riding mower in the grass

Maintain Proper Air Pressure

Air pressure is the most important factor in the longevity of your tires. Underinflated tires will sag under the weight of your mower and get damaged in the process. Meanwhile, overinflated tires are prone to blowouts. Make sure to check the air pressure regularly and adjust as needed to prolong the life of your tires.

A man is driving an orange lawn tractor in the yard, house in the background

Protect Your Mower from the Elements

The best place to store your mower is a cool shed or garage, away from the rain and sun. If you must keep your mower outdoors, make sure to cover it completely with a breathable tarp. Tires that are left exposed to direct sunlight can develop dry rot, which can lead to a blowout.

Happy man on a lawn tractor parked in the yard

Avoid Harsh Cleaning Chemicals

When it comes time to clean your mower, choose your products wisely. Check the ingredient labels for any harsh chemicals that could corrode the sidewalls of your tires. After cleaning, thoroughly rinse and dry your mower before placing it back in storage.

A man on an orange lawn tractor in the yard, bushes in the background

Watch Out for Hazards

Lawns can be a dangerous place for tires. Overgrown grass can hide objects like nails, thorns, and sharp rocks that can cause tire damage. Inspect your lawn and remove any potential hazards before firing up your mower.