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to the manufacturer's specification. Also, be wary of any machines claiming to be "self- lubricated," as this can indicate that the machine is not made for the rigors of commercial use. Mower deck The most important aspect of a mower is the deck, and the most important part of the deck is the blades. Sharpened blades are productive blades. If the blades aren't sharp, they will rip and pull at the turf, affecting its overall look and health. Consider sharpen- ing your blades every one to three days, de- pending on use. If the blades are beyond repair, then they should be replaced. Not all blades are alike. Mulching blades are specifically designed to cut and re-cut grass clippings into fine particles, which has fertilization benefits for the grass. High-lift blades discharge grass over a wide area and help grass stand up. But they require more effort, and more fuel, for the engine to turn them. Low-lift blades are ideal for areas with thin grass. Beyond the blades, there are several other areas of the mower deck that need your attention. Be sure to keep the belt taut and in good condition — look for fraying or wear that changes the belt's profile. You also don't want any loose cords or chunks of the belt missing, and the belt should run smoothly when oper- ating the deck, so be sure to replace them when needed. The mower deck spindles are important to keep in good condition too. These should be lubricated on a daily basis. When operating a mower, the height of cut plays a key role in the final product. It's essential this height is correct as it will help maintain a healthy and good looking lawn. Anti-scalp wheels on the mower deck will also keep the deck from falling to the ground and damaging turf. Utilize technology Laptops, tablets, smart phones and the Internet allow contractors to be connected at all times. Why not utilize these tools to their fullest extent and help maintain your equipment? Manufacturers' websites and industry software are great resources for information. Along with the dealer, online resources can provide the ability to locate and order parts, check on stock status, and keep track of maintenance records. Storage Unless you are in Florida or a few other parts of the country, the lawn main- tenance season will come to end and you will need to store your equipment. Proper storage will ensure your equipment is ready to roll the following spring. There are a few easy tasks to complete before packing equipment away for a few months: 1. Wash all equipment to remove dirt buildup 2. Lubricate and cover grease fittings 3. Add fuel stabilizers or remove fuel 4. Change engine oil 5. Check coolant if your equipment is liquid cooled 6. Check tire pressure and correct, if needed 7. Remove battery, cleanup terminals and charge battery in the off-season If done properly, regular maintenance will prolong the life of your equipment and give your fleet the extra boost it needs throughout the year. These simple tips are easy to execute in the shop or on the road. You'll be surprised with how much time and money you will save. Tim Rohrbach is a John Deere product sup- port specialist. LI www.landscapeirrigation.com Landscape and Irrigation 17