DIY tune-up checklist for zero-turn mowers

Your Grasshopper Mower dealer will always be there for you when your zero-turn mower requires service. But sometimes you may want to tackle certain maintenance procedures on your own, such as performing a spring tune-up. Rest assured, your Grasshopper dealer will be happy to provide the parts you need to get the job done, all from the comfort and convenience of your own garage.

Following are the essential steps needed to get your Grasshopper ready for another mowing season, courtesy of Dustin Hirsh, service manager at Grasshopper.

How to change a zero-turn mower fuel filter

Why the fuel filter matters

The fuel filter captures contaminants that are in the fuel before they can reach the engine, helping prevent clogs, performance issues, and long-term damage.

Steps to replace the fuel filter

1. Locate fuel filter between fuel tank and engine
2. Use pliers to slide squeeze clamps away from filter
3. Remove hoses from both ends of filter
4. Install new filter with arrow pointing toward engine
5. Reposition squeeze clamps to secure hoses to new filter

How to change the engine oil on a zero-turn mower

Why oil changes are critical

Clean oil keeps internal engine components properly lubricated, reducing wear and helping extend engine life. For most residential users, one oil change per year is all that’s needed based on how much the mower gets used. Spring is the perfect time to change the oil.

Steps to change the engine oil

1. Locate drain hose (if equipped)
2. Position a drain pan underneath
3. Drain all used oil completely
4. Remove and replace oil filter (refer to operator’s manual for specific procedures and intervals)
5. Add correct oil type and amount (refer to operator’s manual)

How to service a zero-turn mower air filter

Why a clean air filter is critical

An air filter that is packed with debris will restrict air supply to the engine, causing performance issues, increased fuel consumption, and possible engine damage. It is important to clean or replace air filters as specified in your operator’s manual.

Steps to service the air filter

1. Access filter by removing cap on filter housing
2. Remove the top element of the dual-element air filter
3. Repeatedly tap the side of the filter to dislodge excessive debris
4. Reinstall filter and housing cap
5. If too dirty to clean, replace both elements of the dual-element filter (refer to operator’s manual)

How to service zero-turn mower blades

Why good blades are important

Properly sharpened, well-balanced blades play a vital role with respect to cut quality and the overall safe operation of a zero-turn mower.

Steps to service the blades

1. Inspect for sharpness and damage to determine if sharpening or replacement is necessary.
2. If blades can be sharpened, wear the proper PPE and follow the proper sharpening procedure. Check out are you sharpening blades like you should be? for more tips.
3. If blades must be replaced, choose a suitable replacement for your specific mower and mowing application. Check out choosing the right blade for more tips.
4. Refer to your operator’s manual for advice on how to safely remove and replace blades.

How to service zero-turn mower belts

Why good belts are important

Overly worn belts can break while you’re out mowing, causing disruptive downtime. A worn belt can also slip, causing additional wear and tear on other components.

Steps to service belts

1. Review your operator’s manual to determine which belts your mower has and how to locate them
2. Inspect each belt for nicks and tears, as well as shiny areas that signal belt slippage
3. Replace damaged belts as necessary
4. Check belt spring tension by referring to your operator’s manual for the desired spring coil length for each belt on your mower

How to ensure proper zero-turn mower tire pressure

Why tire pressure is important

Proper tire pressure is key to delivering a high-quality cut, as well as providing for optimum traction, stability, and overall operator comfort.

Steps to ensure proper tire pressure

1. For drive tires, look for a decal near the valve stem which indicates the recommended pressure (psi)
2. Check the pressure in each drive tire
3. Use an air compressor to add air as necessary
4. Recheck air pressure until desire psi is achieved in each drive tire
5. Refer to your operator’s manual for the recommended psi for the front caster ‘ on Grasshopper MidMount™ and OutStander® Stand-On Mowers, and the rear casters on Grasshopper FrontMount™ Mowers
6. Repeat steps 2-4 for all tires

How to level a zero-turn mower deck

Why a level deck is important

A level deck reduces strain on the deck belt and other deck components, and also plays a huge role in cut quality.

Steps to level the deck

Checking and adjusting the leveling on any Grasshopper Mower is a straightforward process. That said, the process can be slightly different depending on the style of mower you have. Check out the below videos to see how it’s done:

How to level your Grasshopper MidMount & FrontMount deck

How to level your Grasshopper OutStander Stand-On deck

How to change the spark plugs on a zero-turn mower

Why spark plugs are important

Clean, quality spark plugs help prevent misfires, ensure proper combustion, and ensure efficient engine operation. Thus, it’s generally recommended to replace them every 100 hours of operation, or sooner if symptoms persist.

Steps to change spark plugs

1. Locate the two spark plugs per guidance in your operator’s manual
2. Disconnect each spark plug wire and clean debris away
3. Remove each spark plug using a ratchet wrench and socket
4. Install the new spark plugs
5. Reconnect the spark plug wires

When it comes to performing DIY maintenance like changing spark plugs—or performing a complete spring mower tune-up in general—your operator’s manual will always be your best friend. So will the tips offered in this article. Be sure to check out the accompanying videos for some additional insights and inspiration, and you’ll be ready to spring into the mowing season with a Grasshopper Mower that’s in tip-top shape.