Your zero-turn mower just finished a whole season of hard work. Now it’s time you return the favor! How you store your mower this winter helps ensure that it runs as expected come spring–and for years to come. Whether you’re on a John Deere ZTrak or another zero-turn, these five steps simplify your winterization checklist to protect your investment through the harsh Northeast winter.
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1. Stabilize or Drain Your Fuel
Gasoline breaks down in 30 days. Left sitting all winter, it will clog fuel lines and carburetors. These easily avoidable repairs can cost hundreds of dollars.
Add fuel stabilizer to a full tank and run the engine for 10 minutes to circulate it through the system. If you’re storing in an unheated space, stabilized fuel is essential. Temperature fluctuations create condensation inside your tank, and water in fuel systems means corrosion.
2. Change the Oil and Filter Before Storage
Dirty oil contaminates engine components. Changing your oil and oil filter before storage prevents unnecessary corrosion and ensures fresh, clean lubrication to protect your equipment during idle months.
Run the engine for a few minutes after changing the oil to circulate fresh oil through the system, then shut it down for winter.
3. Clean the Deck and Remove Grass Buildup
That layer of grass stuck under your deck traps moisture against metal surfaces. In freezing temperatures, that moisture will rust your deck before spring. Scrape out packed grass, spray down the underside, and dry it completely.
Quick tip: Spray the deck with a light coating of silicone or vegetable oil to prevent rust.
4. Charge and Disconnect Your Battery
An idle battery will lose its charge–this is especially true in cold temperatures. A dead battery is inconvenient, but a repeatedly dead battery means a much shorter lifespan.
Remove the battery and store it in a climate-controlled space on a trickle charger. If you’re leaving it installed, at least disconnect the negative cable and charge it regularly through the winter.
5. Protect Tires and Store Properly
Idle tires can mean flat spots and rough, uneven wear. If possible, jack up your mower to relieve weight from the tires. If this isn’t an option, consider overinflating by 5 PSI and moving the mower every few weeks.
Store your zero-turn in a dry, covered space. If you must store outside, use a high-quality breathable cover to prevent moisture buildup.
Want a professional to take care of it? Schedule service at your local United Ag & Turf to ensure your zero-turn mower is ready for the worst of winter.
Spring Will Be Here Before You Know It
A few winterization tasks now save hours of frustration and hundreds in repairs next spring. Contact your local United Ag & Turf for help protecting your equipment through the off-season.
