Winterizing Small Engines for a Smooth Spring Start: Essential Tips

posted on Wednesday, November 15, 2023 in How-To & DIY

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Winter is approaching. Are you planning to store your small engines until spring? Properly winterizing your equipment is essential to ensure they start up smoothly when the warmer days return. Whether it's your riding lawn equipment or hand-held tools like blowers and trimmers, these quick tips will help you prepare your small engines for winter storage.

Winterizing Riding Lawn Equipment:

1. Fuel Stabilizer: Add a fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank and run the unit for about 10 minutes to ensure the stabilizer circulates through the system. This prevents fuel from breaking down and gumming up your engine during storage.
2. Engine Oil and Filters: Change the engine oil and filters. Fresh oil ensures that your engine internals are well-protected during the dormant winter months.
3. Check Belts: Inspect the belts for signs of wear and tension. Tighten or replace them if necessary to avoid issues come springtime.
4. Coolant Check: For liquid-cooled engines, check the quality and freeze point of the coolant. This step is crucial to prevent freezing and potential engine damage.
5. Clean Surfaces: Clean any dirty surfaces and remove grass debris. Keeping your equipment clean prevents corrosion and keeps it looking good.
6. Battery Disconnect: Disconnect the battery to prevent it from draining during storage. You can also remove it and store it in a cool, dry place.
7. Cover Up: Cover your riding lawn equipment with a suitable cover or tarp to protect it from the elements while in storage.

Winterizing Hand-Held Equipment (Blowers, Line Trimmers, Hedge Trimmers, etc.):

1. Drain the Fuel: Start by draining the fuel from the tank. Old fuel can clog the carburetor and cause starting issues later on.
2. Use STIHL MotoMix Premixed Fuel: After emptying the tank, pour a small amount of STIHL MotoMix Premixed Fuel into it. This special fuel contains additives that provide a protective coat to the engine during storage, preventing corrosion and gumming.
3. Run the Unit Dry: Start and run the unit until the fuel is completely used up. This ensures that no residual fuel is left in the carburetor or fuel lines.
4. Replace the Air Filter: Install a clean air filter to keep dust and debris out of the engine while it's in storage.

By following these simple steps, you'll ensure that your small engines remain in good condition throughout the winter and start up smoothly when it's time to get back to work in the spring. Taking the time to winterize your equipment now will save you time and frustration down the road.

Keep your small engines ready for action and enjoy a hassle-free spring start-up!

Disclaimer: Always refer to your equipment's manufacturer guidelines for specific winterization instructions.

For Service support and all your other equipment needs, contact your local Stotz Equipment!

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