How to Change the Oil in Your Exmark Zero-Turn Mower

Why Regular Oil Changes Matter

Oil keeps your mower's engine running smoothly. Over time, oil gets dirty and breaks down. Changing your oil regularly helps your engine last longer and work better. Most Exmark zero-turn mowers need an oil change every 50 to 100 hours of use, or at least once a year. Regular maintenance protects your investment and keeps your mower performing at its best.

When oil becomes dirty, it can't protect engine parts as well. This leads to more wear and tear on your engine. By changing your oil on schedule, you reduce the risk of engine problems and costly repairs down the road. Think of oil changes as preventive care for your mower—a small task that pays off in the long run.

What You'll Need

Before you start, gather these items:

• New oil (check your mower's manual for the right type and amount)
• An oil filter (if your model has one)
• An oil drain pan
• A wrench or socket set
• An oil filter wrench (if applicable)
• Rags or paper towels
• Safety glasses
• Work gloves (optional but recommended)

Having everything ready before you start makes the job go faster and smoother. You won't have to stop midway to hunt for a tool. Keep your manual nearby—it contains specific information about your mower model, including oil type, capacity, and the exact location of parts.

Prepare Your Mower

Start by running your mower for a few minutes to warm up the oil. Warm oil drains better than cold oil because it flows more easily. Then turn off the engine and let it cool for a few minutes—not so long that it gets cold again. You want the oil warm enough to flow freely, but cool enough that you can work safely without burning yourself.

Park your mower on a flat, level surface. Make sure the engine is off and cool enough to touch safely. If you're working in a garage or shed, make sure the area is well-ventilated. Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes in case any oil splashes. This simple preparation step helps ensure a safe and successful oil change.

Locate the Drain Plug

Open the hood or access panel of your Exmark mower. Look for the oil drain plug at the bottom of the engine. Your mower's manual will show you exactly where it is. The drain plug is typically a bolt or nut that sticks out from the engine block. Place your drain pan underneath the plug to catch the old oil. Position the pan so it's centered under the plug and won't tip over.

If you're having trouble finding the drain plug, refer to your owner's manual or look for online resources specific to your Exmark model. Taking time to locate it correctly prevents spills and makes the job easier. Some mowers may have the drain plug in different locations depending on the engine type.

Drain the Old Oil

Using your wrench, carefully loosen the drain plug by turning it counterclockwise. Once it's loose enough, unscrew it by hand (be careful—it may still be warm). Let the old oil drain completely into the pan. This may take several minutes. Don't rush this step—allowing the oil to drain fully ensures you're removing as much dirty oil as possible.

Once the oil stops dripping, wipe the drain plug clean with a rag. Inspect it for any damage or wear. If the plug looks damaged or the threads are stripped, you may need to replace it. A clean drain plug helps ensure a good seal when you reinstall it, which prevents leaks.

Replace the Oil Filter (If Your Model Has One)

Some Exmark mowers have an oil filter. If yours does, locate it on the engine. Use an oil filter wrench to turn it counterclockwise until it comes free. Drain any remaining oil from the filter into your pan. Be prepared for a little oil to spill out—this is normal. Take your time removing the filter so you don't splash oil on yourself or the engine.

Before installing the new filter, rub a thin layer of new oil around the rubber gasket on top of the new filter. This helps create a good seal and makes it easier to remove the filter next time. Screw the new filter on by hand until the gasket touches the engine, then turn it another three-quarters of a turn. Don't use the filter wrench to tighten it—hand-tight is correct. Over-tightening can damage the filter and make it hard to remove later.

Install the New Drain Plug

Screw the drain plug back in by hand. Once it's snug, use your wrench to tighten it firmly—but don't overtighten, as this can strip the threads. The plug should be tight enough that it won't leak, but not so tight that you can't remove it next time. If you stripped the threads on the old plug, you may need to replace it with a new one.

A properly installed drain plug prevents oil leaks that can damage your mower and create a mess. If you're unsure how tight to make it, check your manual for the recommended torque specification. When in doubt, it's better to err on the side of less pressure than more.

Add New Oil

Locate the oil fill cap on top of the engine. Remove it and set it aside. Slowly pour in the new oil. Check your mower's manual for the correct amount. Use the dipstick to check the level as you go. The oil should reach the "full" mark on the dipstick. Pouring slowly helps you avoid overfilling, which can damage your engine.

Once you've added enough oil, replace the oil fill cap. Make sure it's screwed on tightly so dirt and debris can't get into the oil. Double-check that you've used the correct oil type for your mower—using the wrong oil can affect engine performance and durability.

Start Your Mower and Check

Start the engine and let it run for a minute. This circulates the new oil through the engine and helps the new filter fill with oil. Turn it off and wait a minute, then check the oil level again with the dipstick. Add a little more oil if needed to reach the full mark. This second check ensures your oil level is correct after the new oil has circulated.

Look under the mower to make sure there are no leaks around the drain plug or filter. If you see any oil dripping, turn off the engine and tighten the plug or filter slightly. A small leak now is easier to fix than a big problem later. Once everything looks dry and the oil level is correct, you're done with the oil change.

Dispose of Old Oil Properly

Never pour old oil down the drain or into the ground. It harms the environment and may be illegal in your area. Take your used oil to a recycling center, auto parts store, or service station. Many places take used oil for free. Some retailers even offer store credit or discounts when you bring in used oil.

Proper disposal protects groundwater and soil from contamination. Used oil can be refined and reused, so recycling it is both environmentally responsible and practical. Store your used oil in a clean, sealed container until you can drop it off at a recycling facility.

Keep Track of Maintenance

Write down the date and hours of use when you change your oil. This helps you remember when the next change is due. Keeping good records makes it easier to maintain your mower in top shape. You can use a notebook, a calendar, or even a note on your phone to track maintenance.

Regular maintenance records also help if you ever need to sell your mower or take it in for service. They show that you've cared for the equipment properly. Over time, staying on top of oil changes and other maintenance tasks will extend the life of your Exmark mower and keep it running reliably.

Key Takeaways

• Change your Exmark zero-turn mower's oil every 50 to 100 hours of use or at least once a year
• Warm up the engine before draining to help oil flow better
• Always use the correct oil type and amount specified in your mower's manual
• Replace the oil filter if your model has one, and coat the new filter's gasket with fresh oil
• Check the oil level after starting the engine to ensure it's at the full mark
• Dispose of old oil responsibly at a recycling center, auto parts store, or service station
• Keep records of your oil changes to track maintenance schedules

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I change the oil in my Exmark mower?

Most Exmark zero-turn mowers need an oil change every 50 to 100 hours of use, or at least once a year. If you use your mower frequently during the mowing season, you may need to change the oil more often. Check your owner's manual for the specific recommendation for your model. Keeping track of your hours of use helps you stay on schedule.

What type of oil should I use in my Exmark mower?

The correct oil type depends on your specific Exmark model and engine. Always check your mower's owner's manual for the recommended oil grade and viscosity. Common types include SAE 10W-30 and SAE 15W-40, but your manual will tell you exactly what to use. Using the wrong oil can affect engine performance and may void your warranty.

Can I change the oil myself, or should I take it to a professional?

You can change the oil yourself if you're comfortable working with tools and following instructions. The process is straightforward and doesn't require special skills. However, if you're unsure about any step or don't have the right tools, taking your mower to a professional service center is a good option. Either way, regular oil changes are essential for keeping your mower in good condition.

What should I do if I spill oil while changing it?

If you spill oil, clean it up immediately to prevent environmental contamination and safety hazards. Use absorbent materials like rags, paper towels, or cat litter to soak up the spill. Place the contaminated materials in a sealed bag and dispose of them properly. If the spill is large or on soil, you may need to contact your local environmental agency for guidance on cleanup.

How do I know if my oil level is correct?

Use the dipstick to check your oil level. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean with a rag, reinsert it fully, and then pull it out again to read the level. The oil should reach the "full" mark on the dipstick. If it's below the "full" mark, add a small amount of oil and check again. Never overfill your mower with oil, as this can damage the engine.