Get a Grip: A final check on summer tools

1 Nov, 2006 By: Allen Spence Landscape Management

Are your trimmers ready for the winter?

Yes, I said winter. The winter off-season is the time to get your summer equipment ready for next spring. So before you put your trimmers, edgers, blowers and other equipment away for the season, there are some things you can do to extend their work life — and prevent future headaches.

Engine

Install a new plug.
Change or clean the air filter.
Fill the fuel tank with a fuel mix that has had a stabilizer added. (Actually, you should be doing the fuel stabilizer thing year-round).
Check and replace loose or missing mounting bolts, nuts and shields.
Clean around the air intake area and the cooling fins.

Drive train

Lube and clean the gearbox.
Check the condition of the clutch and drum, the driveshaft splines for excessive wear or twist.
Check the drive cable for fraying along its length.
Check the input and output bearings for excessive movement. You need to replace the part if it is the least bit suspect.
On a hedge trimmer, you also need to check the condition of the cutting blade, making sure there are no nicks or missing pieces. Check the bolts and nuts that hold the blade assembly together. Once again, if any defects are noted, replace the affected part(s).

Cutting head

Install new string in the head, making sure you use the correct size.
Look at the overall condition of the attachment itself. Check for excessive movement, making sure the attachment threads are in good condition.
Ensure that the guard isn't broken, cracked or even missing, and that the line cutter is acceptable.

— The author is turf equipment management instructor at Hinds Community College in Raymond, MS. Contact him at
haspence@hindscc.edu.

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