Spring is the season of renewal—not just for your lawn, but for your lawn equipment, too. After months of sitting idle, your mower and yard tools are ready to get back to work. But before you dive into your first cut of the year, it’s wise to check for parts that commonly wear out during the busy spring season. Catching and replacing these high-traffic components now can save you time, money, and frustration later.
At Reliable Aftermarket Parts, we’re here to help you keep your equipment running smoothly. Here are five parts most likely to need replacement every spring, plus tips on how to replace them yourself.
1. Air Filters
Why They Wear Out:
Air filters prevent dirt and debris from entering your engine. During spring, airborne pollen and dust can quickly clog filters, reducing airflow and engine efficiency.
How to Replace:
- Locate the air filter cover—usually on the side of your mower’s engine.
- Remove the cover and take out the old filter.
- If it’s a foam filter, you can wash it with soapy water and let it dry. For paper filters, replace with a new one.
- Install the new or cleaned filter and secure the cover.
2. Drive Belts
Why They Wear Out:
Belts are responsible for transferring power from the engine to the blades and wheels. Regular use and age cause belts to crack, stretch, or slip.
How to Replace:
- Disconnect the spark plug for safety.
- Remove the mower deck according to your manual.
- Loosen the tension and gently slide the old belt from the pulleys.
- Thread the new belt through the same path, ensuring it’s properly seated.
- Reassemble the mower deck and reconnect the spark plug.
3. Blades
Why They Wear Out:
Blades take a beating from sticks, rocks, and thick grass. Dull, bent, or chipped blades leave your lawn looking uneven and can stress your mower.
How to Replace:
- Disconnect the spark plug and tip the mower on its side.
- Use a wrench to remove the blade bolt.
- Replace with a new, sharp blade—make sure it’s oriented correctly.
- Retighten the bolt and reconnect the spark plug.
4. Spark Plugs
Why They Wear Out:
Spark plugs ignite the fuel/air mixture in your engine. Over time, they can become fouled or corroded, making your mower hard to start.
How to Replace:
- Remove the spark plug wire.
- Use a spark plug wrench to unscrew the old plug.
- Install a new spark plug, making sure it’s the right type and properly gapped.
- Reattach the spark plug wire.
5. Fuel Filters
Why They Wear Out:
Fuel filters keep dirt and debris out of your engine’s fuel system. Old or dirty filters can lead to poor engine performance or difficulty starting.
How to Replace:
- Turn off the fuel valve if your mower has one.
- Locate the filter along the fuel line.
- Use pliers to remove the clamps and gently pull out the old filter.
- Insert the new filter in the same direction (look for an arrow indicating fuel flow).
- Secure with clamps and turn the fuel back on.
Tackle Spring Maintenance with Confidence!
Replacing these common wear parts yourself saves money and ensures your mower is ready for a productive season. At Reliable Aftermarket Parts, we offer a wide range of high-quality replacement parts for all major mower brands. Find everything you need to keep your equipment in top shape, shipped fast to your door.
Don’t let worn-out parts slow you down this spring—shop with us and tackle your yard work with confidence!