How to Change the Oil in Your Riding Lawn Mower

Changing the lawn mower oil is an essential part of regular maintenance for your Cub Cadet rider. In addition to helping it run smoothly and efficiently, replacing the oil can also maximize its lifespan.

 

Keep in mind that the steps for changing your riding lawn tractor's oil may vary slightly from the ones listed below. Check your operator's manual to get instructions tailored to your model, including information about which lawn mower oil type you should use.

Instructions

Step 1

Before you change the oil in a lawn mower, place the mower on a flat, level surface.

Step 2

Make sure the engine is cool then disconnect the spark plug ignition wire.

Step 3

Clean the lawn mower's oil fill and drain area of any debris.

Step 4

Remove the dip stick from the lawn mower's oil fill tube then using the Arnold Siphon Pump, place the black tube into the dip stick hole on the engine and the orange tube into the oil pan.

Step 5

Prime the pump by pumping the handle three to four times.  Once the liquid begins to flow, it will continue without further pumping.

Step 6

Remove the Arnold Siphon Pump.

Step 7

To remove the lawn mower oil using the drain plug, position the catch basin then snap the small end of the oil drain sleeve onto the oil sump.  Remove the drain plug and drain the lawn mower oil into the catch basin.

Step 8

Replace the drain plug and remove the drain sleeve.

Step 9

Remove the oil filter.  Using lawn mower oil, lubricate the gasket of the new filter and then install the filter.

Step 10

Add new lawn mower oil type indicated in your operator's manual. Follow the instructions in your manual for how to change the lawn mower oil in your specific model.

Step 11

Replace the dip stick.  Wait several minutes, then use the dip stick to check the lawn mower's oil level.

Step 12

Reconnect the spark plug ignition wire.

Step 13

Once you've changed the oil in your lawn mower, make sure you properly dispose of the old oil.