How To Winterize Zero Turn Lawn Mower

In winter season its crucial to keep maintained your mower. If you do not get it ready the cold weather can damage the mower. Engines will be stopped while mowing due to heavy cold. So to help you in this guide we have discussed how to winterize your zero turn lawn mower. lets walk through our step by step process how to take care of your mower before winter comes.

Winterize Zero Turn Lawn Mower: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you start, gather the following materials:

• 5 gallons of clear, ethanol-free gasoline
• Stabilizer (a couple of ounces)
• New fuel filter
• Quarter-inch shutoff valve
• Fogging oil
• Essential tools such as a 7mm wrench and an 11mm socket

Step 2: Prepare the Fuel System

• Fill up your gas tank with clear ethanol-free gasoline. Then pour some stabilizer into the gas tank. Put in a new fuel filter and a small valve to stop the fuel from causing problems when you are not using it.

Step 3: Fog the Engine

• Using the 7mm wrench remove the air cleaner lid.
• Open the throttle body of the engine and spray some fogging oil inside it while the engine is running. Let the engine keep running untill the fuel comes out. This process makes sure that the whole system gets treated with the fogging oil.

Step 4: Fuel System Shutdown

• Install the quarter-inch shutoff valve to cut off the fuel supply.
• Continue running the engine until it stalls due to the lack of fuel.

Step 5: Remove and Clean the Air Cleaner

• Remove the air cleaner for cleaning.
• Optionally, remove the spark plug and apply fogging oil directly into the cylinder if needed.

Step 6: Disconnect the Battery

• Flip the seat forward.
• Disconnect and remove the battery using an 11mm socket.

Step 7: Remove the Drive Belt

• Use a pry bar to release tension on the drive belt.
• Pull the belt off the pulley, relieving pressure during storage.

Step 8: Prepare for Storage

• Disconnect the axle using pull pins to keep the mower neutral for easy rolling.
• Apply a silicone protectant over the mower’s surfaces to prevent rust and deterioration.
• Wipe down the mower with a microfiber towel.
• Store the mower in a suitable location, indoors or in a protected outdoor space.

Maintenance Tips to Follow When Winterizing Your Mower

Fully Clean Your Mower:

• Perform a thorough cleanup to prevent moisture buildup.
• Spray the deck, remove the blades, and wipe down the machine.
• Ensure it’s free of grass, clippings, and dirt.

Regular Maintenance:

• In routine maintenance you should always change the oil, spark plugs, and air filters for better performance.
• Empty the fuel system or use a winter storage fuel stabilizer.
• You should always lubricate the friction points.
• Run the engine briefly to confirm changes and circulate new fuel and additives.

Prep the Battery:

• Careful Attention: Always charge the battery for long lasting.
• Consider Removal: You may consider entirely removing the battery for better preservation.
• Storage Conditions: Store the battery in a cool, dry place to prevent deterioration.
• Trickle Charging: Use a trickle charger throughout the winter for optimal maintenance.
• Pre-Mowing Charge: Alternatively, start charging the battery about a month before your first mowing session in the spring.

Don’t Forget the Tires:

• If your mower has pneumatic tires, park on a non-cold surface.
• Rotate the tires during winter to avoid pressure on one side.

Store the Mower:

• Choose a covered storage area, like a garage, to protect against cold and moisture.
• Use a cover for added protection, and keep the mower away from potential sparks and corrosive materials.

These are the key steps to winterize zero turn lawn mowers properly, which keep your mower healthy and last long.

Here are some covers you may like for storage of your zero turn lawn mower.

UV Protection Universal Fit with Drawstring & Cover Storage Bag

Craftsman Zero Turn Lawn Mower Cover

Problems Caused By Without Winterization

If you do not winterize zero turn lawn mower, it will create some issues while mowing. 

Engine corrosion:

Cold temps allow moisture and condensation to build up inside the engine, leading to corrosion that damages internal components.

Degraded fuel:

Old gas left in the fuel system can degrade over the winter and clog up carburettors. 

Expensive repairs:

Come spring, you may face major repair bills due to the corrosion and clogged carburettors.

Failure to start:

Your mower may only partially start due to the damaged engine and fouled fuel system.

Wasted investment:

Neglecting to winterize zero turn lawn mower can lead to costly fixes or even total replacement of your mower. 

Preventable headaches:

Taking the time to winterize correctly protects your investment and avoids these problems.

Now you know how to winterize a zero turn lawn mower. You may also like to read our article Comprehensive Buyers Guide for zero turn lawn mowers.