It is a spring ritual to prep your lawn mower for action. Checking the engine, cleaning the deck (you know how it goes). If you pick the wrong oil though, then this exercise in familiarity can leave you scratching your head.
Any old motor oil will do, right? No. Small engines are not like your family car. They’re put through different types of mechanical and thermal stresses.
There is consequences for getting it wrong. Premature wear. If you use incorrect type and/or viscosity, your engine will fail, overheat or otherwise malfunction.
Their engines is designed for tight tolerances, and the oil is what holds those tolerances in place. Using wrong oil means expensive repairs. Running a mower well all season long are also about knowing the right spec.
Essential Guide To Toro Mower Oil
Why Small Engine Oil Matters
The main consideration is viscosity (thicker or thinner). Thinner work better in cold weather. Why?
So it will flow more easly. For example, most Toro walk-behind mowers specifies SAE 30 oil in warm weather. When temperature remains over forty degrees F, that weight provide enough protection.
Choosing the Right Viscosity
That’s a safe bet for summer months. In shoulder season or winter, try 10W-30. Why the “W”? Because that’s its winter rating.
This is a so-called multi-grade oil, meaning it flows well on a cool morning and then thickens once engine warms up. The machine do not strain to start because of thicker oil. Also check the label to make sure it’s a type of oil designed for small engines (not auto oil).
Auto oil has additives that is harmful to small engine valve and spark plugs because they build up carbon deposits. Look for oil specifically marked for small air-cooled engines. There is Toro oil, which Toro also endorses, and others like it that meet those same specs.
Checking and Changing Oil
Always check the dipstick. Typically, you’ll see an image of an oil can near engine block to show where fill port is located. Take the dipstick out, then use a rag to wipe it down.
Put it back in all the way (don’t tighten), then take it out again. You want to see the oil between upper and lower marks on the dipstick. Too much and you get pressure problems/foaming.
Not enough and you have friction. Replace the oil once a year (or every 50 hours). If you mow an extensive area, do it.
When’s it time? The oil will be dark-colored and sludgy; that’s the sign. To drain, let engine run two minutes so the oil warms up.
It will drain better when it’s warm. Pour old oil into a pan and take it to your town’s recycling center. Don’t put it down the drain!
The engine stays clean and cool with fresh oil. The oil also protects internal parts from daily wear and tear. Paying attention to the right kind of oil (the one called for by the viscosity) not only prolongs the life of your Toro mower, it also helps you start the machine more easly and make it run smoother.
You’ll be hearing sound of a well maintained tool. This basic care also pays off in terms of what’s good for your lawn.