A Service Tip from On Track Equipment in Weatherford, TX
As cooler weather settles into Weatherford, Texas and Parker County, now is the perfect time to start thinking about prepping your equipment for winter storage. While we don’t see harsh winters like some parts of the country, consistent cold weather and reduced use can still cause real problems — especially for small engine equipment like lawn mowers, zero-turns, and other gas-powered units.
With grass growth slowing down until spring, many customers won’t be using their mowers and small engine equipment very often. That makes right now the best time to take care of a few simple steps that can save you time, money, and frustration when warmer weather returns.
Below are some cold weather prep tips straight from our service team at On Track Equipment.
Why Winter Prep Matters for Small Engine Equipment
One of the most common issues we see in the service department every spring is carburetor failure. In many cases, it could have been avoided with proper winter storage.
Gasoline left sitting in a system too long can break down, gum up, and clog the carburetor, leading to poor performance or no-start issues. Replacing a carburetor can be expensive — but a little prep now can help you avoid that altogether.
Tech Tip #1: Use Fuel Stabilizer Before Storage
If your equipment will be sitting for more than a few weeks, fuel stabilizer is your friend.
Adding a quality fuel stabilizer helps prevent gasoline from breaking down while the machine isn’t being used. This is especially important during the winter months when equipment may sit idle for long periods.
Pro tip:
Add the fuel stabilizer before storage and run the engine for a few minutes so it moves through the entire fuel system.
Tech Tip #2: Run the Engine Dry — Especially the Carburetor
This is one of the most important tips our small engine techs want customers to know.
It’s not enough to just drain the fuel tank. The real problem area is the carburetor.
When fuel is left sitting in the carburetor, it can gum up and harden over time. This is one of the top reasons equipment ends up needing a new carburetor in the spring.
The right way to do it:
- Drain the fuel tank (if recommended for your unit)
- Start the engine
- Let it run until it shuts off on its own
This ensures the carburetor runs completely dry, reducing the risk of fuel-related damage.
Tech Tip #3: Keep the Battery Charged
Cold weather is hard on batteries. If your equipment has a battery and won’t be used often during the winter, we recommend keeping it on a trickle charger or battery maintainer.
This helps:
- Prevent dead batteries
- Extend battery life
- Avoid no-start issues when you’re ready to use the equipment again
A small battery maintainer is an inexpensive tool that can save you a lot of headaches later.
Tech Tip #4: Now Is the Best Time for Service
Since grass growth slows down during colder months, winter is actually a great time to bring your mower or small engine equipment in for routine maintenance or winterization service.
Getting ahead of service now means:
- Faster turnaround times
- Less downtime in the spring
- Fewer surprise repairs when you need your equipment most
Our service department in Weatherford, TX works on a wide range of equipment and is happy to help you get your machines ready for storage.
Serving Weatherford, Parker County & Surrounding Areas
At On Track Equipment, we’re proud to support customers throughout Weatherford, Parker County, and the greater DFW area with reliable sales, service, and expert advice.
Whether you’re a homeowner, landscaper, or professional contractor, taking a little time now to prepare your equipment for winter can save you money and keep your machines running strong for years to come.
Contact Us, On Track Equipment today to schedule winter service, ask questions, or get recommendations from our experienced service team. We’re here to help you stay on track, even in the off-season. Call or text 817-597-6299
