Maintaining a riding mower is an important part of keeping your lawn looking its best. One of the essential tasks of mower maintenance is adjusting the valves. Valves are small parts inside the engine that allow air and fuel to mix and ignite, and they need to be adjusted periodically to ensure the engine is running smoothly and efficiently. Adjusting the valves on your riding mower isn't a difficult task, but it is important to understand the process before attempting it.
Tools and Supplies Needed
Before attempting to adjust the valves on your riding mower, you'll need to make sure you have the right tools and supplies on hand. You'll need a valve adjustment tool, a flat-head screwdriver, a hammer, a ruler, and a rag or cloth. You'll also need a can of engine oil or a valve adjustment oil, depending on what type of mower you have. Additionally, you'll need a pair of safety glasses, a torque wrench, and a valve adjustment feeler gauge.
Step 1: Prepare the Mower
Before you begin adjusting the valves, you'll need to get your riding mower ready. First, disconnect the spark plug wires from the spark plugs and remove the air filter. Then, remove the valve cover and set it aside. Next, make sure the engine is cool and at rest before you begin.
Step 2: Adjust the Valves
Once the mower is prepared, you can begin adjusting the valves. Start by turning the valve adjuster screw with the flat-head screwdriver until it is just slightly loose. Then, use the valve adjustment tool to turn the valve adjuster screw until it is snug. After you have adjusted the valve adjuster screw, reattach the valve cover and reconnect the spark plug wires.
Step 3: Test the Mower
Once the valves have been adjusted, it's important to test the mower to make sure it is running properly. Start by adding the engine oil or valve adjustment oil to the engine, then start the mower and let it run for a few minutes. After the mower has been running for a few minutes, turn it off and check the valve adjustment feeler gauge. If the feeler gauge is within the manufacturer's specifications, then the valves have been adjusted properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tools do I need to adjust the valves on my riding mower?
You'll need a valve adjustment tool, a flat-head screwdriver, a hammer, a ruler, and a rag or cloth. You'll also need a can of engine oil or a valve adjustment oil, depending on what type of mower you have. Additionally, you'll need a pair of safety glasses, a torque wrench, and a valve adjustment feeler gauge.
How do I know if the valves have been adjusted properly?
Once the valves have been adjusted, it's important to test the mower to make sure it is running properly. Start the mower and let it run for a few minutes. After the mower has been running for a few minutes, turn it off and check the valve adjustment feeler gauge. If the feeler gauge is within the manufacturer's specifications, then the valves have been adjusted properly.
What should I do if the valves are not adjusted properly?
If the valves are not adjusted properly, you may need to adjust them again. Make sure the engine is cool and at rest before you begin, then follow the steps outlined above to adjust the valves. If the valves still don't seem to be adjusted properly after multiple attempts, you may need to take your mower to a professional for further inspection.
How often should I adjust the valves on my riding mower?
It's recommended that you adjust the valves on your riding mower at least once a year, or every 100 hours of use. Additionally, if you notice any changes in the way your mower runs, it may be time to adjust the valves.
What happens if I don't adjust the valves on my riding mower?
If you don't adjust the valves on your riding mower, you may experience a decrease in performance. Additionally, the engine may overheat, which could cause serious damage. It's important to adjust the valves on your riding mower regularly to keep it running smoothly and efficiently.
What happens if I turn the valve adjuster screw too tight?
If you turn the valve adjuster screw too tight, you could damage the valves, which could lead to significant engine damage. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for adjusting the valves to ensure that the valves are adjusted properly.
Can I adjust the valves on my riding mower myself?
Yes, it is possible to adjust the valves on your riding mower yourself. However, it is important to read the manufacturer's instructions carefully before attempting to adjust the valves. If you don't feel comfortable adjusting the valves yourself, you may want to take your mower to a professional for assistance.
What should I do if I have trouble adjusting the valves on my riding mower?
If you are having trouble adjusting the valves on your riding mower, it's best to take your mower to a professional for assistance. A professional mechanic will be able to adjust the valves correctly and make sure the engine is running properly.