Snapper Mower Maintenance


To ensure that your Snapper mower is functioning properly, and maintain the validity of the warranty (for new mowers), you must service it regularly and correctly. Customers are responsible for oil changes, tune-ups, belt maintenance, maintaining the tires and mower blades. This applies to both push mowers and riding mowers (referred to as lawn tractors or garden tractors). Maintenance should be done on a regular schedule, such as the beginning and end of the season. Regular oil changes during the season are also necessary.

Beginning of the Mowing Season

At the beginning of each mowing season bring your mower outside. Examine tires, belts (cables), mower deck, blades and spark plug. Look for damage, drying out of rubber parts and dirt and debris. Replace any parts that are damaged. Clean debris from the mower. The blade (riding mowers normally have two blades that need to be checked) should be taken to an authorized dealer for sharpening; they have the equipment and knowledge to sharpen the blade so that they are balanced. Check tire pressure on riding lawn mowers; this may have gone down over the winter. Ascertain the oil and fuel levels. Fill fuel tanks three-quarters of the way, this allows for expansion of gases when the mower engine becomes hot. The oil dipstick should read "Full"; if not, add oil.

Oil Changes and Checks

Check oil regularly, before each use. Damage to the engine can occur from not having enough oil. Add small amounts of oil and check the oil dipstick frequently, over-filling can cause engine damage. Change the oil after every 25 hours of use. New mowers require that the oil be changed after the first 5 hours of operation. Oil becomes thin as it heats, and over time it does not maintain the necessary viscosity required by the engine. This schedule applies to both push and riding mowers. Riding mowers also require that the fuel filter is changed with every oil change.

Snapper Push-Mower Maintenance

Push mowers require tune-ups on a regular basis. During the tune-up clean or replace the air filter; the maintenance schedule recommends doing this after every 25 hours of use. Change or clean your air filter every time you change your mower's oil. Change spark plugs after 100 hours of operation. (Every fourth oil change, change your spark plug.) Check blades for damage and wear before starting your mower every time. Keep the underside of the deck and the discharge chute free from debris.

Snapper Riding Mower Maintenance

Like push mowers, riding mowers require that the air filter and spark plugs be changed on a regular basis--air filters after every 25 hours of use and spark plugs after every 100 hours of use. Riding mowers also require regular lubrication of the rider and mower deck, as well as chains and cables. Lubricate the mower after every 25 hours of operation. After every 100 hours of use, check blades for damage and wear. Damaged should not be fixed but replaced. Before each use, after each use and after every 5 hours of use, check the mower and rider for loose screws, nuts, bolts and oil leaks. Once the rider has cooled, check the transmission fluid level. The fluid must be cool for an accurate measurement. Add fluid as needed. Keep the mower deck free from debris by cleaning after each use.


Before storing either a push mower or riding mower at the end of the season, allow to run until all fuel is used. Gasoline will gel over time and become unusable, especially in areas of cold winters. Change oil, air filter and clean the mower before placing in storage. Replace any damaged parts prior to storing in a covered area to prevent water damage to internal engine parts.

Benefits of Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance of your Snapper mower will ensure optimal performance of your mower. It will prevent uneven mowing and damage to the engine and other parts. Well-maintained mowers prevent injury to people and property. Regular care of the engine prevents it from wearing out prematurely. The cost of maintaining your Snapper mower is ultimately less than the cost of repairs or replacement.

Keywords: mower maintenance, Snapper mower, Snapper push mower maintenance, Snapper riding mower maintenance

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