How Often Should I Change the Oil in a Briggs & Stratton 6.5 Push Mower?

Oil Maintenance Intervals

• Change the oil after the first five hours of operation and every 50 hours thereafter. The oil system in a Briggs and Stratton 6.5 HP engine should be monitored at regular maintenance intervals, otherwise you risk damaging your engine. The standard oil for this engine type is SAE-30.

Checking Oil

• Check the oil levels and condition prior to starting your push mower and after every eight hours of operation. Ensure the engine is cool before checking the oil. Remove the fill cap, which is directly across from the pull start handle. Use the dipstick inside the cap to check the oil level by wiping it clean with a cloth, reinserting it and then pulling out the dipstick. Add oil as needed according to how close the oil marking is to the “full” or “add” line.

Changing Oil

• The Briggs and Stratton 6.5 HP engine holds up to 20 oz. of oil. Over time, engine oil can break down and become unserviceable for engines. The engine must be cold before changing the oil. A warm engine means that oil is still in the engine. Change the oil by first opening the oil fill cap and removing the dipstick. Place a bucket underneath the drain port, which is on the bottom of the engine. Open the drain port and allow all of the oil to empty into the bucket. Close the drain port tightly and slowly refill the oil via the oil fill port. Close the port and re-start the engine, allowing it to run for at least five minutes so that the oil cycles throughout the engine.

Oil Function

• Engine oil keeps the engine cool during operation. When the engine is on, oil constantly flows between the metal parts, reducing friction and absorbing heat from combustion. It also keeps the engine clean by removing any dirt or residue and pushing it through an oil filter. Oil can also be used to keep hardware on the mower from rusting. Use the same oil to lubricate hardware on the wheel assembly, push handle and blade shaft.