Lawn Maintenance Equipment: Just Like New

How to revive yard care hand-me-downs

Score! You've spotted an impassable deal at a garage sale. Or maybe you were gifted lawn maintenance equipment from a relative or friend who was upgrading. Getting a great deal on "pre-owned" yard care equipment (or better yet, getting it for free) is no doubt a bonus. But chances are those giveaways didn't receive needed TLC before being passed along. To make sure inherited yard equipment does the good it should to your landscape, give it the once over and get it going strong.

First things first, always read the Operator's Manual before doing any maintenance. If the inherited equipment comes sans manual check online, as manufacturers post manuals based on serial or model number.

Check over a mower.

No longer wanted could mean neglected. So before you start your engine, it's a good idea to do top-to-bottom maintenance so you're sure the lawn mower will run safely and efficiently and won't damage your grass. Where to start?

• Old gas can clog the carburetor. So if there's still a bit left, drain out the old and replace it with new.
  
• Tighten all nuts and bolts and make sure all belts, filters and safety shields are in place.
  
• Clean the mower deck of any stuck on grass or debris.
  
• Change the oil, oil filter and fuel filter.
  
• Replace the spark plug.
  
• Sharpen the mower blade so you won't damage the grass when mowing, making it vulnerable to disease.
  

Most of these tasks will be covered by a thorough lawn mower tune up. You can do it yourself in about 30 minutes. Find everything you need to DIY, including an all-in-one tune up kit, how-to video, and toll-free help line at mowertuneup.com. Or, take the mower to a dealer near you.

In an effort to be green, always dispose of used engine oil properly by recycling it at one of our service dealers, find one here. Also, remember to dispose of any unused gasoline in a sealed container at your local hazardous waste facility.

Spruce up a string trimmer.

Lucky you! You've snagged one of the most useful tools for trimming those hard to reach, straggly spots and achieving a perfectly groomed appearance. You're lucky, too, because string trimmers are relatively easy to maintain. Before you do anything, though, make sure the power button is off, the gas tank is empty and the spark plug is disconnected. Here are some must-do's to go from gently used to most useful:

• Clean the machine. Because string trimmers operate at ground level, they stir up a lot of dirt and debris, which can cause engine trouble. Simple soap and water will do the trick.
  
• Tighten all bolts, fasteners and fittings for optimal safety.
  
• Replace the spark plug to keep your string trimmer running most efficiently.
  
• Remove the muffler and scrape out any carbon residue for better motor power.
  
• Replace the air filter.
  
• Use high-quality gasoline and oil in the proper ratio for better performance and fewer emissions.

Your first time with a string trimmer? Check out How I Got Over My String Trimmer Phobia and get off to a good start.

Prime a pressure washer.

You've had dreams of pristine pavement. Spotless siding. A dirt-free deck. Now you have the machine to make it all real. Just get that used pressure washer in tip top shape and you'll be ready to shine. Here's how.

• Start off fresh. Change the oil and top off with new fuel.
  
• Make sure the tire pressure is at the appropriate PSI.
  
• Flush the water inlet screen and in-line screen with clean water, or replace it if you notice damage.
  
• Inspect the high-pressure hose for leaks and cuts, replacing with a new hose if necessary.
  
• Make sure the cleaning detergent injection tube and filter are free of dirt and debris. If you notice any leaks or tears, replace with new.
  
• If the spay wand leaks, replace O-rings and clean the nozzle in case it's clogged.
  
  

It's important to remember, these aren't once-and-done jobs. Track lawn mower maintenance with our tune up schedule. Keep up with proper, regular maintenance throughout the season and your used equipment will take good care of your yard for years to come.