Posts Tagged ‘lubrication’

Once again, let’s talk lubrication.

Thursday, September 23rd, 2010

EngineOil_FrontIt’s true we have multiple posts discussing lubrication. (Three to be exact, but who’s counting?) But as you’re wondering why we’re getting stuck on this one topic, just remember that proper lubrication extends the life of your mower.  And, we want you to help keep those bad boys working hard for you for as long as possible.

So here’s the breakdown on what you need to know and what you should be doing:

  • Change the engine oil after the first five hours of operating a new mower.
  • Your first hydraulic oil and filter change should be at 200 hours.
  • After initial hydraulic oil and filter change, and if you’re using genuine Exmark Hydraulic Oil, change the oil and filter at maximum every 500 hours.
  • If you’re using Mobil 1 Oil, change the oil and filter at maximum every 250 hours.
  • If you are mowing hills or running bagging equipment, change hydraulic fluid and engine oil much more frequently than manufacturer’s maximum recommendations.
  • Use a high-quality oil since less expensive grease or generic brands might cost you more in the long run.
  • Engine manufacturers do not recommend the use of synthetic oils.  Find more information on Exmark’s YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/exmarkmanufacturing.
  • You have the option of using Exmark-branded engine oil, which is specifically formulated for mowers.

Did you find this post helpful? Leave us a comment below.

Lubrication, Lubrication, Lubrication

Monday, March 8th, 2010

 

This is the second post in Exmark’s ten part Service and Maintenance Series.

Hi there, David Martin here, customer service manager for Exmark.

We can’t stress it enough. Proper lubrication of your equipment is first and foremost in mower maintenance. Since this is a lengthy, not to mention significant, topic we’re breaking up the post into two parts. Here’s the first installation.

The most important oil change for your engine should happen after the first five hours of operating a new mower. Unfortunately, when you’re busy running your equipment, five hours can go by fairly quickly. But changing the oil at this time can increase the longevity of your engine. How? This “break-in oil” will typically break down quicker than normal, caused by the enormous amount of shearing force in the engine as parts begin to seat in the first few hours of operation. Ignoring this first important oil change can lead to expensive repairs down the road.

Your first hydraulic oil and filter change should be at 200 hours and then changed at maximum every 500 hours after that if you are using genuine Exmark Hydraulic Oil. For Mobil 1 oil, the maximum is 250 hours. This will provide the ultimate protection for your equipment to keep running smoothly throughout the season. Ignoring this recommendation will cause your equipment to work harder and run hotter.

Your mowing conditions should also help guide the maintenance schedule for your machine. If you regularly mow hills or run bagging equipment, consider changing both the hydraulic fluid and engine oil much more frequently than the manufacturer’s maximum recommendations.

Next, we’ll discuss your oil options, so please come back soon.