How to change oil in a lawn mower - MTD

This video will show you how to change the oil in a walk-behind lawn mower. It applies to self-propelled and push mowers alike. Depending on your model, the instructions in this video may vary slightly.

There are three methods for draining the old oil.

The first method is to use a siphon pump, such as the Arnold siphon pump, to remove the oil directly from the oil fill tube and deposit it into an approved container.

Draining the oil is easier if the engine and oil are warm. Make sure the mower is on a flat, level surface. Remove the spark plug wire and keep it away from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting. Clean the oil fill area of any debris.

Using the MTD Arnold siphon pump, you'll be able to siphon the warm oil out of the dipstick fill tube. Be careful, as the oil may be hot and could possibly cause burns. Insert the pump siphon tube into the dipstick tube until it reaches the bottom of the engine. Manually siphon out the oil. Tilt the unit toward the side the dipstick tube is located on to remove as much oil as possible.

By tilting the mower on its side and using the dipstick tube as a drain, oil can be removed from the engine without removing the drain plug. It's best to wait until the mower runs out of fuel or the fuel is removed before attempting this procedure. A siphon can be used to transfer the fuel from the tank into an appropriate container.

Clean the oil fill area of any debris. Remove the oil dipstick. Place an appropriate catch container on the side of the mower the dipstick tube is on, making sure that it is opposite the dipstick tube. Also make sure that it is opposite the air filter.

Carefully tip the mower in the direction of the catch container. Keep tilting the mower, making sure the oil is going into the catch container. Hold it in this position until the oil flow slows to just a drip. Make sure the mower is tilted air filter side up to prevent oil from contaminating the air filter.

Carefully tilt the mower back in the opposite direction to rest on the wheels. Wipe up any spilled oil on the mower or floor if needed.

Some mowers may also have a drain plug for draining oil. Refer to your operator's manual or engine manual for the type and amount of oil needed to refill. Fill the mower with the specified amount and grade of MTD oil. Do not overfill; it can be as harmful to an engine as underfilling.

Wait 1 to 2 minutes for the oil to settle into the unit, and then follow the instructions in the equipment or engine manual for checking the oil level. Replace and tighten the dipstick. Reconnect the spark plug wire, and you're done.