What Kind of Oil Do I Use for MTD Yard Machine Lawn Mowers?

Kind of Oil

• For all lawn mower engines manufactured by MTD, use a fresh, high-quality detergent oil with an American Petroleum Institute service classification of SG-SL. MTD recommends using an oil with a viscosity rating of SAE 10W 30 for most all-purpose operations. However, using the lawn mower regularly in temperatures lower than 32 degrees Fahrenheit, use an oil with a SAE 5W 30 viscosity rating. When using multi-viscosity oils, always remember to check the oil before each use.

Check the Oil

• In the heat of the summer, running at full speed, these lawn mowers can burn up to 1 oz. of oil per cylinder per hour. This consumption rate will increase when using multi-viscosity oils, such as a SAE 10W 30, in the Yard Machine. Park the mower on a level surface before checking the oil. Take the oil dipstick out of the nozzle, clean the tip with a rag and reinsert it fully into the tank. After waiting several seconds, pull the dipstick out again and check the reading. Add more oil if the reading is below the "Add" line on the dipstick.

Adding More Oil

• Whenever more oil is needed, add the oil slowly to the oil fill spout. Make sure no dirt or other matter enters the oil tank when refilling oil. Add only 2 ozs. of oil at a time, stopping to recheck the dipstick several times during the process. Don't overfill the mower with oil, and tilt the mower on its side to drain out any excess oil from the tank. Wipe up all oil spills around the oil fill spout and any on the engine to reduce the fire hazard.

Changing the Oil

• For smaller, push-style mowers, MTD recommends changing the oil every 25 hours of operation. For larger, riding-style lawn tractors, MTD recommends changing the oil every 50 hours. For all MTD lawn mowers, change the oil at least once a season, usually at the beginning. Change the oil after the engine has already heated up. This will allow the oil to drain more freely and will also pull out any built-up engine grime inside the oil.