It’s that time of year to start putting some of your outdoor equipment away for the season. When retiring you equipment until spring, simply tossing it into a shed or garage is not considered a best practice. There are few maintenance items that need to be done so that when it comes time for spring, your outdoor equipment is ready to go.
Stabilize
As mentioned in a previous blog (Stabilizing Outdoor Equipment’s Gas at the End of the Season), we suggest that about a month prior to putting your outdoor equipment away for the season, you start the process of stabilizing your gas. Stabilizing gas well help to prevent the additives in the gasoline from oxidizing, which will decrease the gummy varnish and corrosion.
At the end of the season, buy fresh gas and mix in stabilizer (if old gas is used, the gas may already have started to degrade). Fill the tank full and run for a couple minutes to be sure the stabilized gas is worked through fuel lines and carburetor. Finally, top off the tank to leave little room for expansion or water vapor to potentially contaminate the fuel.
Clean
Give your equipment a good cleaning at the end of the season by cleaning off grass, leaves, mud, oil and any other debris buildup. Additionally, be sure to get underneath the equipment scraping out any clumps that have collect. This is also a good time to sharpen your blades on your mower.
Maintenance
Run a routine preventive maintenance inspection, checking for worn or broken pieces and parts that need replaced. Replace air filters, change oil and lubricate any parts that need it. Refer to your user manual for specifics for each equipment.
Battery
Any equipment that has a starter battery, it’s best to remove the battery and store inside for the winter. We also suggest fully charging the battery before you store it.
Storage
Finally, store your equipment in a dry, safe place where the equipment will be protected from the outdoor elements.
Taking the time at the end of the season to properly maintain and adding that extra layer of protection will not only save you time but will extend your equipment’s lifetime. You will be thanking yourself when it comes to using the equipment again the next season.
If you don’t have the time to do the above items and need help, Snappy’s Outdoor Equipment Sales and Service is only a phone call away at 419-879-1196. Stop by our store at 2120 N. Dixie Highway and we’d be happy to help!
