than your car. They require routine maintenance to function
properly and last for several years."
After machines are clean and all oil and fi lters are changed, the
engine type dictates the next steps.
"Propane mowers are pretty simple when it comes to winterizing
the engine," said Hyler. "Contractors should shut off tanks and run
the machine until hoses are completely empty of fuel. They can
keep the propane still left in a cylinder."
Gasoline and diesel engines require more attention. Just as
stored gasoline and diesel needs a fuel stabilizer, so does fuel
left in the machine's gas tank. "Gasoline and diesel left in a tank
might go bad, which can damage some engine components.
It can be avoided by adding a stabilizer to the gas tank
before storing the machine for winter," explains Hyler. "For
it to work, you have to run the stabilizer though the system.
Another option is to siphon the remaining fuel from the tank,
and restart the mower until it stops on its own. That'll also
make sure the stabilizer is evenly distributed throughout the
fuel system."
To finalize the winterization process, Hyler recommends
the following tips for all types of mowers and landscape
equipment:
■ Remove mower blades and examine them for damage.
Sharpen and replace them as necessary.
■ Lubricate and grease idler arms, pivot points and cutter
housing. Also, tighten screws and bolts and replace any damaged
parts. Make sure electrical connectors are disconnected and clean,
as well.
■ Remove batteries from electric mowers and equipment
and charge them completely. "If it's a long winter season,
it might be necessary to charge the battery a few times
throughout, because a full battery is less likely to freeze up.
Also, never leave a battery on top of a concrete floor. It'll get
too cold and the chemicals inside will react to the extreme
temperature," said Hyler.
After equipment has been fully prepped for storage, Hyler
suggests keeping machines in a dry, covered area away from the
elements. A garage would be best, but a tarp can provide protection
if a building isn't available.
Ultimately, the risks of not winterizing aren't worth the
trade off. "Not winterizing equipment can shorten the life of an
engine, and — worst case scenario — cause engine corrosion,"
said Hyler. "If contractors take these routine steps, they should
be ready to go in the spring. Really, it's just common sense to
protect the investment of expensive equipment and save the
hassle and headache of scrambling to do these things when
winter is over."
Jeremy Wishart is deputy director of business development,
Propane Education & Research Council (PERC).
www.greenmediaonline.com Business Planning Guide December 2014 25
"Machines are machines. It's no
different than your car. They require
routine maintenance to function
properly and last for several years."
—
Joe Hyler, service technician for Exmark
ALL PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE PROPANE EDUCATION & RESEARCH COUNCIL (PERC).