Proper care and storage of your outdoor power equipment this winter will ensure its good performance after the winter thaw. According to the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute, those who take the time to store equipment properly will benefit in several ways. Following are OPEI's recommendations for storing equipment for the winter:
- Drain the fuel tank completely by running the engine until all of the excess fuel is gone.
- While the engine is still warm, drain the crankcase oil.
- Fill it with fresh oil.
- Lubricate all lubrication points.
- Check all moving parts for damage. Cover any bare metal parts with oil or rust preventive.
- Clean caked-on grass and wipe debris from engine, deck and handle of mowers. Clean debris from tillers, edgers and shredder housings.
- For battery-powered equipment, remove battery and fully charge before storing.
- Store equipment and any fuel can in a clean, dry, ventilated area and never near a pilot light, stove or heat source of any kind.
If you have maintenance tips to pass along to RER readers, please contact Brandey Smith, managing editor at [email protected] or 913/967-7458.
