Spring Mower Tune-Up Guide: Get Your John Deere Ready for the Season
3/22/2025
Caleb Hennington
Spring is just around the corner, and for many of us, that means it's time to start thinking about lawn care. Before you fire up your John Deere mower for the first time this season, it's essential to give it a thorough spring tune-up. A little preventative maintenance can go a long way in ensuring your equipment runs smoothly and efficiently all season long.
Tennessee Tractor is here to help you get your John Deere mowers ready for spring. Let’s take a closer look at some easy actions you can take to prepare for spring.
Inspect Your Blades
One of the first things you should do is inspect your mower's blades. Over time, mower blades can become dull, bent, or damaged from hitting rocks and other debris. Dull blades tear the grass instead of cutting it cleanly, leading to a ragged, dead appearance. Bent or damaged blades can cause your mower to vibrate excessively, which can damage the engine and other components. If your blades are dull, sharpen them with a file or grinding wheel. If they are bent or damaged, replace them with new ones. Tennessee Tractor carries a wide selection of John Deere mower blades to fit your specific model.
Check Engine Oil
Next, check the engine oil. Old, dirty oil can cause excessive wear and tear on your mower's engine. Refer to your owner's manual for the recommended oil type and how often you should change it. Typically, you should change the oil at least once a year, or more often if you mow frequently or in dusty conditions. To change the oil, locate the oil drain plug and remove it, but make sure you have a pan in place to catch the old oil. Allow the old oil to drain completely into a pan. Once the oil has drained, replace the drain plug and tighten it securely. Refill the engine with fresh oil to the proper level, as indicated on the dipstick. Dispose of the used oil properly at a recycling center or equipment dealership.
Examine the Air Filter
While you're checking the oil, take a look at the air filter. The air filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine. A dirty air filter restricts airflow, which can reduce engine performance and fuel efficiency. Remove the air filter and inspect it for dirt and damage. If it's dirty, try cleaning it by tapping it gently on a hard surface or blowing it out with compressed air. If it's damaged or excessively dirty, replace it with a new one. Tennessee Tractor has the air filter you need to keep your John Deere running smoothly.
Check Your Spark Plug
Another important part of your spring tune-up is to check the spark plug. The spark plug ignites the fuel-air mixture in the engine. A worn or fouled spark plug can cause starting problems, misfiring, and reduced engine performance. Remove the spark plug and inspect it for wear, damage, or carbon buildup. Clean the spark plug with a wire brush or spark plug cleaner. If it's worn or damaged, replace it with a new one. Make sure to use the correct spark plug for your John Deere mower.
Inspect Fuel System
Don't forget to inspect the fuel system. Old fuel can become stale and cause starting problems and poor engine performance. If your mower has been sitting for several months, drain the old fuel and replace it with fresh fuel. Add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from going bad in the winter. Check the fuel lines for cracks or leaks and replace them if necessary. Clean or replace the fuel filter to ensure a steady flow of clean fuel to the engine.
Lubricate Parts, Examine Belts, Check Tires
Finally, lubricate all moving parts. Use a grease gun to lubricate the axles, wheel bearings, and other grease fittings. This will help to reduce friction and wear and keep your mower running smoothly. Check the belts for cracks or wear and replace them if necessary. Make sure the tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure.
Bring Your Equipment to Tennessee Tractor
By following these simple spring tune-up tips, you can keep your John Deere mower running smoothly and efficiently all season long. If you're not comfortable performing these tasks yourself, or if you encounter any problems, contact the Tennessee Tractor service department for assistance. Our team of experienced technicians can provide you with expert service and repair to keep your equipment in top condition.
Tennessee Tractor is your one-stop shop for all your John Deere needs. We offer a wide selection of new and used equipment, parts, and services. Visit our website or stop by one of our dealerships today to learn more. With regular maintenance and care, your John Deere mower will provide you with years of reliable service!