How to Change the Oil in a Lawn Mower

Co-authored by Grant Wallace

Last Updated: January 12, 2023 Approved

Lawn mowers, like cars, need their oil changed every now and then. Not changing the oil in a lawn mover can significantly reduce its lifespan. If you are wondering how to change the oil in your lawn mover, then you came to the right place. This wikiHow will tell you how you can change the oil in a lawn mover.

Steps

1
Unplug the spark plug wire before any repair or maintenance is made to any mower.^{[1]
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2
Use a hand siphon hose from auto or hardware store to empty gas from the tank. ^{[2]
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Research source} This prevents spillage onto mower deck & prevent possible fire if ignited by spark plug later. A damaged spark plug wire or plug may ignite any gas spilled.

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3
Look under the mower deck for the oil drain plug. Most are square & recessed for a socket wrench set,socket extension fit (3/8's) drive.Others may be just a common drain plug or bolt^{[3]
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4
Either prop the mower or hold up & use the socket to loosen the drain plug or bolt. Be sure to have a drain pan under the deck to catch the used oil.
5
After oil is a mere drip re-install the drain plug or bolt, but do not over tighten or strip. Drain the used oil into an empty oil container (or suitable container) using a funnel, for future "safe" disposal at a local Hazardous Waste Disposal Site.These sites are usually managed by local landfill sites.^{[4]
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6
After drain plug is closed & has a proper seal,prepare to then refill the oil filler hole to proper fill point. Some mowers have the filler hole on top with a dip stick while others are lower on engine near the deck.This type does not have a dip stick, but must be filled to limit,near cap space.Use standard S.A.E 10w30 or 5w30 motor oil.^{[5]
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7
Check to see that oil cap is installed on filler & then refill gas tank & attach spark plug wire.

Expert Q&A

Question

How do you know if your lawnmower needs an oil change?

Grant Wallace
Landscaper
Grant Wallace is a Landscaper and Owner of Grantlanta Lawn in Atlanta, Georgia. With over seven years of experience, he specializes in lawn maintenance and landscape installation. In 2012, he earned his BA from the University of West Georgia. Grant has been profiled in Shoutout Atlanta, Canvas Rebel, and Voyage ATL.

Grant Wallace

Landscaper

Expert Answer

Take a look at the oil gauge, as well as the oil's physical appearance. If it looks muddy (rather than clear), you'll want to change the oil out. In general, changing the oil once a year is plenty for a lawn mower.
Question

Petrol was mistakenly put in the oil tank. What should I do?

Community Answer

First, drain the tank of the petrol using the same technique used on the oil. Then, leave the tank open in a place where air can flow through the tank in order that the remaining petrol evaporates, making sure that no debris makes its way into the tank. Using a fan and waiting 24 hours would be the safest option, and be sure not to let any dirt or bugs get into the tank in the meantime.
Question

Can I just tilt my lawn mower to drain oil?

Community Answer

Yes, but remove the gas cap first, and put some plastic wrap over it. Put the gas cap back on, then go ahead and turn your mower on its side to drain oil. The plastic wrap keeps the gas from leaking out. Once the oil change is done, remove the plastic wrap from the gas cap.

Warnings

Use caution when handling used oil. You may wear rubber or latex gloves.

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Before oil change remove spark plug wire from plug & drain fuel to prevent spills or possible spark from plug later when started up.

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Dispose of used oil "safely" at any Hazardous Waste Disposal Site that accepts it.

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