How to Winterize a Small Engine
It is highly recommended that you winterize your lawn equipment before putting them away for the winter. It is the best way to ensure your equipment will be running properly when it is time for them to be used again.
Winterizing your small engine equipment should be done before putting them in storage. This will not only extend the life of your equipment, but it will also help you to find any necessary repairs that the equipment may need. The winterization process is fairly simple and is something that you can easily do yourself by following a few simple steps.
- Clean the equipment and look for any loose items that need to be tightened such as bolts and screws.
- Inspect the fuel lines, belts, pulleys, filters, cables, fuel tank and tires for signs of wear or damage. This would be the perfect time to change or repair any of these items before the next season arrives.
- Change the oil in the engine. This should be done because when the engine runs it sucks up dirt and debris, which can end up getting into the oil. If you are unsure of what type of oil to use refer to your owner's manual.
- Remove and change the oil filter after the oil has been completely drained from the engine.
- Replace the fuel filter and check the fuel lines.
- Remove the fuel and replace it with fresh stabilized fuel. Start the engine and allow it to run for about 10 minutes to ensure the fuel fills the carburetor. This will prevent rust from forming.
- Store the equipment for the winter.