If you own a Bolens push lawn mower, you know how important it is to keep it running smoothly for a well-manicured lawn. Regular maintenance is the key to ensuring your Bolens push lawn mower continues to perform at its best, season after season. In this blog guide, we’ll delve into the essential maintenance tips that will help you keep your Bolens push lawn mower in shape, ensuring reliable performance and a healthy lawn. Read on to get invaluable insights into step-by-step maintenance of Bolens push lawn mower.
Understanding Your Bolen Lawn Mower
Before we discuss maintenance tasks, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with your specific Bolen lawn mower model. Take the time to thoroughly read the owner’s manual, which provides detailed information on your mower’s features, specifications, and recommended maintenance schedule. Understanding the unique aspects of your Bolen push lawn mower will enable you to perform maintenance tasks more effectively and confidently.
Pay attention to the engine type, fuel requirements, oil specifications, and any special features or adjustments specific to your model. Familiarizing yourself with these details will make the maintenance process smoother and help avoid potential issues or mistakes.
Regular Cleaning and Inspection
Regular cleaning and inspection are fundamental and essential maintenance tasks for your push mower bolens. After each mowing session, take a few minutes to remove any grass clippings, debris, or dirt that may have accumulated on the mower deck, blades, and other components. A clean mower looks better, ensures optimal performance, and prevents rusting or corrosion.
When cleaning your mower, gently remove debris from the surface with a soft brush or cloth. Avoid high-pressure water or harsh chemicals, damaging the mower’s components, or removing protective coatings. Pay special attention to the underside of the mower deck, where grass clippings build up and interfere with the blade’s performance.
During your cleaning routine, thoroughly inspect your Bolens push lawn mower for any signs of wear, damage, or loose parts. Examine the blades closely, checking for dullness, dents, or cracks. Look for any leaks, frayed cables, or worn-out components. Identifying and addressing these issues promptly can prevent more serious problems from developing and ensure your mower remains in optimal condition.
Sharpening and Balancing Mower Blades
Sharp and well-balanced blades are essential for a clean, even cut and the overall health of your lawn. Over time, the blades on your Bolens push lawn mower can become dull, bent, or damaged due to regular use, impacts with obstacles, or general wear and tear. Dull or damaged blades can result in ragged grass tips, an uneven cutting pattern, and increased stress on the mower’s engine.
To keep your mower blades in top condition, it’s recommended that you sharpen them at least once a season or as needed, depending on the frequency of use and the condition of your lawn. You can use a file or a bench grinder to sharpen the blades carefully, maintaining the original cutting angle. When handling the blades, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection.
After sharpening, it’s crucial to balance the blades to ensure they rotate smoothly and evenly. Unbalanced blades can cause excessive vibration, leading to premature wear on the mower’s engine, bearings, and other components. You can use a blade balancing tool or take your blades to a professional for balancing.
Changing the Engine Oil of Bolens Push Mower
Regular oil changes are vital for the longevity and performance of your Bolens push lawn mower’s engine. Over time, the oil in your mower’s engine can become contaminated with dirt, debris, and combustion byproducts, reducing its lubricating properties and potentially causing engine damage.
Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended oil type and change interval for your specific bolens push mower model. In general, it’s good practice to change the oil at least once a season or after every 50 hours of use, whichever comes first. Some newer models may have extended oil change intervals, so follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
When changing the oil, ensure the engine is excellent and the mower is on a level surface. Locate the oil drain plug near the engine’s base and place a suitable container underneath to catch the old oil. Remove the drain plug and allow the oil to drain completely. Once drained, replace the plug securely and refill the engine with the appropriate amount of fresh oil, as specified in the owner’s manual. Be sure to dispose of the old oil properly, following local regulations for hazardous waste disposal. Read this explanatory blog guide to learn how to change lawn mover oil.
Replacing the Air Filter
The air filter in your Bolens push lawn mower plays a critical role in preventing dirt, dust, and debris from entering the engine. A clogged or dirty air filter can restrict airflow, leading to poor engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and even engine damage over time.
To ensure optimal engine performance, the air filter must be checked regularly and replaced as needed. The frequency of air filter replacement depends on the operating conditions and the type of filter used. Consult your owner’s manual for specific recommendations on air filter maintenance for your Bolens push lawn mower model.
Most bolens push lawn mowers use a paper or foam air filter, and the replacement process may vary slightly depending on the type. Paper filters are typically disposable and should be replaced when they become visibly dirty or clogged. Foam filters, however, can often be cleaned and reused multiple times before needing replacement.
To access the air filter, locate the housing, usually positioned near the top of the engine. Remove the cover and carefully take out the old filter. If using a foam filter, clean it with warm, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and allow it to dry completely before reinstalling. For paper filters, simply discard the old filter and install a new one. Ensure the new filter is seated correctly and secure the existing air filter housing cover.
Maintaining the Fuel System
Proper fuel system maintenance ensures your Bolen push lawn mower starts quickly and runs smoothly. The first step in maintaining the fuel system is always using fresh, high-quality gasoline. Avoid using gas that has been stored for more than 30 days, as it can begin to break down and form deposits that can clog the fuel system.
If you know your bolens push lawn mower will be stored for an extended period, such as during the winter months, it’s recommended to drain the fuel tank entirely or add a fuel stabilizer to the gas. Fuel stabilizers help prevent the fuel from breaking down and forming gum or varnish deposits that can cause starting and running problems.
Periodically inspect the fuel lines, tank, and carburetor for any signs of leaks, cracks, or damage. Check for any visible fuel stains or odors indicating a leak. If you notice any issues, replace the affected components promptly to prevent fuel leaks and potential fire hazards.
Over time, the carburetor in your bolens push lawn mower may become dirty or clogged, leading to starting issues, rough running, or poor performance. If you experience these problems, it may be necessary to clean the carburetor. Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions on carburetor maintenance or consider taking your mower to a professional for service.
Checking and Replacing the Spark Plug
The spark plug is critical to your Bolen push lawn mower’s ignition system. It is responsible for igniting the fuel-air mixture in the engine. A fouled or worn spark plug can cause starting difficulties, rough running, and poor engine performance.
To ensure optimal performance, it’s essential to check the spark plug at the beginning of each mowing season and replace it if necessary. Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended spark plug type and gap specification for your specific bolens push mower model.
First, check the spark plug and ensure the engine is excellent. Disconnect the spark plug wire and use a spark plug wrench to carefully remove the plug from the engine. Inspect the spark plug for signs of wear, damage, or excessive carbon buildup. If the electrode is worn, the porcelain insulator is cracked, or the plug is heavily fouled, it’s time to replace it.
When installing a new spark plug, set the gap according to the manufacturer’s specifications using a feeler gauge. Gently thread the plug into the engine by hand to avoid cross-threading, then use the spark plug wrench to tighten it to the proper torque. Be careful not to overtighten, as this can damage the threads or cause the plug to break. Want to do it step by step? Read this comprehensive guide!
Lubricating Moving Parts of Push Mower Bolens
Proper lubrication is essential to keep your push mower bolens running smoothly and minimize wear on moving parts. Regularly lubricating the wheel bearings, pivot points, and other moving parts helps reduce friction, prevent rust, and extend the life of your mower.
Consult your owner’s manual for specific lubrication points and recommended lubricants for your bolens push lawn mower model. Generally, use a high-quality lubricant designed explicitly for outdoor power equipment, such as a silicone-based spray or lithium grease.
To lubricate the wheel bearings:
- Remove the wheels and apply some grease to the bearing surfaces.
- Avoid over-lubricating, as excess grease can attract dirt and debris, potentially causing more harm than good.
- Wipe away any excess lubricant after application.
Lubricate pivot points, such as the blade adapter, control cables, and handlebar hinges, with a light coating of silicone-based spray. This will help keep these parts moving freely and prevent rust or corrosion.
Adjusting the Cutting Height
Maintaining the proper cutting height is crucial for the health and appearance of your lawn. Most bolens push lawn mowers offer adjustable cutting height settings, allowing you to customize the mowing height based on your grass type, season, and desired lawn appearance.
Refer to your owner’s manual for instructions on adjusting the cutting height on your specific bolens push lawn mower model. The adjustment process generally involves moving the wheel axles or adjusting levers to raise or lower the mower deck.
Adjust all four wheels to the same level when setting the cutting height to ensure an even cut across the entire lawn. It’s recommended to avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass blade height at a time, as this can stress the grass and lead to an unhealthy or weakened lawn. Maintain a slightly higher cutting height during heat or drought stress periods to promote deeper root growth and improve the lawn’s resilience.
Storing Your Mower Properly
Proper storage is crucial to ensure your Bolen push lawn mower remains in good condition and is ready to use when needed. After each mowing session, allow the engine to cool down completely before storing the mower in a dry, protected area, such as a garage or shed.
If storing your mower for an extended period, such as during the winter months, take additional steps to prepare it for storage:
- Drain the fuel tank or add a fuel stabilizer to the gas to prevent it from breaking down and forming deposits.
- Remove the battery (if applicable) and store it in a cool, dry place. Charge the battery periodically to maintain its capacity.
- Clean the mower thoroughly, removing grass clippings, dirt, or debris from the deck, blades, and other components.
- Lubricate all moving parts to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation when you restart the mower.
- Cover the mower with a breathable fabric to protect it from dust and debris while allowing air circulation.
By following these storage guidelines, you’ll help extend the life of your Bolens push lawn mower and ensure it’s ready to go when the next mowing season arrives.
Scheduling Professional Service
While the average homeowner can perform many maintenance tasks, some repairs and services are best left to the professionals. If you encounter any issues with your bolens or push mower that you’re not comfortable addressing yourself, don’t hesitate to take it to a qualified small engine repair shop.
Regular professional service can help identify and address potential problems before they become more serious, ensuring your mower remains in optimal condition. Consider scheduling an annual tune-up with a professional to keep your Bolens push mower running smoothly and efficiently.
During a professional service, a trained technician will comprehensively inspect your mower, checking for any worn, damaged, or malfunctioning components. They’ll make necessary adjustments, replace parts as needed, and ensure your mower is operating at peak performance.
In addition to annual tune-ups, it’s a good idea to seek professional assistance if you experience any of the following issues:
- Difficulty starting the engine
- Poor engine performance or excessive smoking
- Unusual noises or vibrations
- Leaking fluids
- Electrical problems (for electric start models)
Addressing these issues promptly with the help of a professional can prevent more extensive damage and prolong the life of your Bolens push lawn mower.
Conclusion
Keeping your Bolens push lawn mower running smoothly requires regular maintenance and attention to detail. By following the essential maintenance tips outlined in this expert guide, you can ensure your Bolen push lawn mower remains in top condition, providing reliable performance and a beautifully manicured lawn season after season.
For reliable Bolens push mower maintenance and repair services, contact the experts at Greg’s Small Engine Service & Repair. With our professional expertise, pick-up and delivery options, and commitment to customer satisfaction, you can trust us to keep your mower running smoothly forever.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I sharpen the blades on my Bolens push lawn mower?
It’s recommended to sharpen the blades on your Bolens push lawn mower at least once a season or as needed, depending on the frequency of use and the condition of your lawn. Dull or damaged blades can result in ragged grass tips, an uneven cutting pattern, and increased stress on the mower’s engine. Sharpening the blades regularly ensures a clean, even cut and promotes a healthier lawn.
What type of oil should I use when changing the oil in my Bolens push lawn mower?
When changing the oil in your Bolens push lawn mower, it’s crucial to use the oil type and viscosity recommended by the manufacturer. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific oil recommendations for your mower model. Generally, most push mowers require SAE 30 or 10W-30 oil, but this can vary depending on the engine type and operating conditions. Using the correct oil ensures optimal engine performance and longevity.
How can I prevent rust and corrosion on my Bolens push mower?
To prevent rust and corrosion on your Bolens push mower, it’s important to keep it clean and dry. After each mowing session, remove grass clippings, dirt, and debris from the mower deck, blades, and other components. Store your mower in a dry, protected area, such as a garage or shed, when not in use. Applying a light coating of oil or silicone-based spray to the mower deck and other exposed metal parts can provide additional protection against rust and corrosion.
How often should I replace the air filter on my Bolens push lawn mower?
The frequency of air filter replacement depends on the operating conditions and the type of filter used. Consult your owner’s manual for specific recommendations on air filter maintenance for your Bolens push lawn mower model. Generally, it’s a good idea to check the air filter at the beginning of each mowing season and replace it when it becomes visibly dirty or clogged. A clean air filter ensures optimal engine performance and prevents damage due to restricted airflow.
What should I do if my Bolens push lawn mower won’t start?
If your Bolens push lawn mower won’t start, there are several potential causes to investigate. First, check the fuel level and ensure you’re using fresh, properly mixed gas. Next, check the spark plug for signs of wear or damage and replace it if necessary. Make sure the air filter is clean and unobstructed. If the mower still won’t start, it could indicate a problem with the carburetor, ignition system, or other components. Consult your owner’s manual for troubleshooting steps specific to your mower model or take it to a qualified small engine repair shop for professional assistance.
How should I store my Bolens push mower during the off-season?
Proper storage is essential to keep your Bolens push mower in good condition and ready for the next mowing season. Before storing your mower for an extended period, such as during the winter months, take the following steps:
- Drain the fuel tank or add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the gas from breaking down and forming deposits.
- Remove the battery (if applicable) and store it in a cool, dry place, charging it periodically to maintain its capacity.
- Clean the mower thoroughly, removing grass clippings, dirt, and debris from the deck, blades, and other components.
- Lubricate all moving parts to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation when you restart the mower.
- Cover the mower with a breathable fabric cover to protect it from dust and debris while allowing air circulation.
By following these storage guidelines, you’ll help extend the life of your Bolens push lawn mower and ensure it’s ready to go when the next mowing season arrives.