Getting ready for springtime yard work.

Spring is just around the corner, so it’s not too early to start thinking about preparing your garden tools and lawn equipment for the warm weather months. Taking the time to do simple maintenance can eliminate the hassle of a piece of lawn equipment failing to start.

Having an operational lawn mower throughout the mowing season should be at the top of your spring prep list. If you find your lawn mower has a hard time starting up, it may be time for a tune up. This includes changing the spark plugs, changing the oil and cleaning the filter. The same goes for weed eaters. Both can be taken to a mower shop or dealer for tune-up, or can be done by the do-it-yourselfer.

If you’re handling the tune-up on your own, an oil specifically designed for use in small engines, such as Royal Purple’s 2-Cycle TCWIII Engine Oil,  can be helpful. Usable in lawn mowers and chain saws, 2-Cycle TCW III increases horsepower and reduces fuel consumption, heat, wear and emissions. Its synthetic solvency keeps spark plugs and exhaust ports clean as well. TCW III has also been member tested and recommended by the National Home Gardening Club. Always use fresh fuel when you start your lawn equipment for the season.

A thorough cleaning of your tools will allow you to inspect them to determine if there are any loose or damaged parts. If a machine has blades -- like a lawn mower, weed eater or hedge trimmer -- make sure they are clean and sharp. Working with dull blades can be dangerous. You should discard blades that are chipped, damaged or rusted.

You should also make sure your lawn tools are well lubricated with an all-purpose synthetic lubricant like Royal Purple’s Maxfilm, Maxfilm is recommended for:

* Loosening stuck parts such as nuts, bolts, locks, hinges, etc.
* Lubricating power tools, hinges, chains, rollers, open gears, fishing tackle and lawn equipment
* Preserving and protecting parts in storage against rust and corrosion

Once the initial work is done after the winter thaw, maintenance will be relatively simple, and you’ll be able to enjoy your yard all spring and summer long.