{"id":489,"date":"2017-10-04T12:33:19","date_gmt":"2017-10-04T12:33:19","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/weingartz.com\/expert-advice\/?p=489"},"modified":"2017-10-04T12:33:19","modified_gmt":"2017-10-04T12:33:19","slug":"engine-oil-maintenance","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wgz.powerweb.app\/expert-advice\/2017\/10\/engine-oil-maintenance\/","title":{"rendered":"Engine Oil Maintenance"},"content":{"rendered":"

Of all the maintenance<\/a> that is done to lawn\u00a0equipment<\/a>, engine oil maintenance is generally the most important. The importance of checking, changing and using the proper crankcase oil cannot be overemphasized. Failure to use the correct oil and keep it clean can dramatically effect engine life and reliability.<\/p>\n

The most important scheduled oil change over the life of an engine is the first one. Most manufacturers recommend performing the oil change after the first 5-10 hours of use. This helps flush out small particles that accumulate naturally during the break-in period. Flushing out those sediments will help get the engine off to a good start.<\/p>\n

Refer to your owner\u2019s manuals for viscosity, grades and time intervals for oil changes. Different equipment requires different types of oil and it is important to pay special attention to those recommendations in small engines.<\/p>\n

Regardless of the type of oil, be sure to use high-quality detergent oil that has the American Petroleum Institute (API) rating. When changing engine oil allow ample time for a complete drainage. Oil in a lawn mower<\/a> or small engine<\/a> breaks down faster under tough conditions, such as wet grass, heavy dust, and high temperatures.<\/p>\n

A small engine uses engine oil to help keep it cool in high temperatures, so be sure to pay extra special attention to maintenance when operating in those conditions. Check the engine oil before each cut, checking for both proper oil level and for color.<\/p>\n

When engine oil is new, it has a golden amber color. Gradually, heat and dirt particles along with agitated air cause the oil to darken. Combustion byproducts, contaminants, and oxidized lubricant build up over time to form sludge, which will cause the oil color to darken. Dark oil is a good indication that an oil change is overdue. A small engine with clean oil and at the proper level will run cooler and use less fuel.<\/p>\n

Engine oil maintenance is not the only maintenance that keeps your equipment <\/a>in working condition.<\/p>\n

Other important maintenance includes:<\/p>\n