How to Get Your Outdoor Power Equipment Ready for Spring

Man using Toro Smart Stow in garage

After your outdoor power equipment has been stored all winter, it may need a bit of maintenance to get everything back in top shape for spring. Here are the 4 outdoor power tools we’ll review in this article:

  1. Riding Mowers
  2. Walk Power Mowers
  3. Leaf Blowers/Vacs
  4. Trimmers

As you look over each piece of equipment for any maintenance needs, keep an eye out for these key elements to evaluate if your equipment is spring-ready, or if it’s in need of a little TLC.

How to Prep Riding Mowers for Spring

  1. Thoroughly charge the battery before reinstalling (see your Operator’s Manual for more details).
  2. Check the electrical system for loose or dirty connections.
  3. Check the spark plugs annually.
  4. Clean all old debris from the spark plugs.
  5. Make sure all tires are properly inflated.
  6. Review the starting procedures outlined in your Operator’s Manual including proper procedures for your riding mower.

In addition to your manual, check out our how-to videos for more help with your riding mower!

How to Prep Walk Power Mowers for Spring

  1. Did you run the machine dry of fuel at the end of last season? If not, we recommend siphoning and properly disposing of stale fuel before attempting to start. For best results in your gas-powered Toro, we recommend Toro 4-cycle ethanol free fuel.
  2. Check oil, spark plugs and air filters to ensure they are in good condition.
  3. Carefully check the blades for sharpness.
  4. Make sure to clear the cutting deck of any clippings.
  5. Check the pull cords to ensure they are not frayed and are in good working condition.
  6. Check that the attachments are connected and are working properly.
  7. Review the starting procedures outlined in your Operator’s Manual, including proper procedures for your mower.

In addition to your manual, check out our how-to videos for more help prepping and maintaining your lawn mower!

How to Prep Leaf Blowers/Vacs for Spring

  1. Ensure that the bottom inlet cover or vacuum tube is locked in place.
  2. Verify the safety tab is not damaged on the inlet cover or the vacuum tube.
  3. Check that any straps, handles, nuts, and bolts are secure.
  4. Review the starting procedures outlined in your Operator’s Manual, including proper procedures for your blower.

How to Prep Trimmers for Spring

  1. Check to make sure the spool is full and the cutter head is clear of dirt or cuttings.
  2. Check and tighten all fasteners.
  3. Make sure air intake vents are clear of debris.
  4. Review the starting procedures outlined in your Operator’s Manual, including proper procedures for your trimmer.

In addition to your manual, check out our Yard Tools How-to videos for more tips for your handheld yard tools!

What if My Yard Tools Won’t Start?

If any of your outdoor power tools aren’t starting, don’t panic! First, go through this quick 4-step checklist to see if any of these may be the culprit.

  1. Are you using fresh fuel (less than 30 days old)? For best results in your gas-powered Toro, we recommend Toro 4-cycle ethanol free fuel.
  2. Is your spark plug wire attached to the spark plug?
  3. Is the spark plug wire clean and in good condition?
  4. If your machine uses a battery, is it fully charged?

Review the starting procedures outlined in your Operator’s Manual. If you haven’t yet, download your manual.  If you continue to experience difficulties contact your Authorized Service Dealer for further assistance.

Summary

If you plan on taking any of your power equipment to a local dealer for preseason maintenance or repairs, now is a great time to get that taken care of! By the time spring rolls around, service dealerships may be all booked up, so it’s the safest bet to beat the rush.

If you’d prefer to perform your own maintenance or repairs, make sure to download your manual for care and maintenance instructions specific to your model! If you’re looking for replacement parts, look them up here.

Toro logo

EXPLORE TORO

The tools you need to create and maintain a gorgeous yard, all in one place.

VISIT TORO.COM