How to Change the Oil in Your Riding Mower

How to Change the Oil in Your Riding Mower

Regular oil changes are critical to keeping your riding lawn mower's engine in top shape and prolonging the life of your mower. Watch this video to learn how to change the oil in a Cub Cadet riding lawn mower. Depending on your mower model, the instructions in this video tutorial may vary slightly from the directions in your operator's manual. Always refer to your operator's manual for comprehensive instructions on changing lawn mower oil before getting started.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Prepare your riding mower for maintenance. Place your mower on a flat, level surface. Turn the mower off and make sure the engine is cool.  Remove the ignition key, disconnect the spark plug ignition wire, and engage the parking brake. This helps ensure the machine doesn't start accidentally and cause you or those around you harm.

Step 2: Place a piece of cardboard under the work area to catch oil drips.

Step 3: Use an approved oil basin to catch the used oil as it is drained from the engine.

Step 4: Clean the oil fill and oil drain areas. Use a rag or shop towel to clean around the oil fill and drain to prevent debris from entering the engine.

Step 5: Drain the oil. Remove the dipstick and position the drain hose over the oil basin. Remove the drain plug to start the oil draining from the engine.

Step 6: Allow the engine oil to completely drain.

Step 7: After the oil has drained, reinstall the drain plug.

Step 8: Replace the oil filter. Using an oil filter wrench, unthread the oil filter from the engine.

Step 9: Clean the area around the engine of any spilled oil.

Step 10: Replace the oil filter. Add a little oil to the seal of the new oil filter. This helps with the install.

Step 11: Using your hand, thread the new oil filter onto the engine. Do not overtighten.

Step 12: Use your oil filter wrench to snug the fit. Do not overtighten.

Step 13: Add new oil. Use the oil recommended by the engine manufacturer. Fill to the recommended levels.

Step 14: Reinsert the Dipstick. Check the engine for proper oil levels.

Step 15: Finish and clean up. Clean up any spilled oil and dispose of the used oil at a proper facility.

Step 16: Reconnect the spark plug ignition wires

Genuine Parts Logo Cub Cadet Genuine Parts

Always use genuine OEM replacement parts when servicing your equipment. Use our parts finder to locate and order any replacement parts you may need for maintenance. Refer to your owner's manual for additional maintenance information.