How to Winterize Your California Trimmer

As mowing season wraps up in North Carolina, it is time to think about how to store your equipment. Properly winterizing your California Trimmer Reel Mower will protect it during the colder months and ensure it is ready to go when spring arrives. Many homeowners overlook this step, but it makes a huge difference in mower performance and longevity.

At Shields Reels, we help customers in Charlotte and Lake Norman every fall with tips and supplies to prepare their reel mowers for the off-season. Here’s a complete guide to winterizing your California Trimmer.

Step 1: Clean Your Mower Thoroughly

Before storing your mower, make sure it is free of grass clippings, dirt, and debris.

Why It Matters

• Moisture trapped in clippings can cause rust

• Dirt and buildup wear down moving parts

• Clean equipment is easier to inspect and maintain

How to Do It

• Use a brush or cloth to wipe the reel and frame

• Avoid spraying water directly onto the reel or bearings

• For hard-to-reach spots, use compressed air or a handheld blower

Taking a few extra minutes to clean now will prevent problems later.

Step 2: Sharpen and Backlap the Blades

A sharp blade is essential for clean cuts and a healthy lawn. Storing your mower with dull blades will only make spring mowing harder.

Why It Matters

• Dull blades tear grass, increasing disease risk

• Sharpened blades reduce strain on the mower

• Proper backlapping extends blade life

How to Do It

Backlap the reel before putting your mower away. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, Shields Reels carries backlapping kits and can guide you through the process.

Step 3: Lubricate Moving Parts

Winter storage can be tough on unprotected metal. Applying lubrication creates a protective barrier against rust.

Key Areas to Lubricate

• Reel shaft bearings

• Height adjustment screws

• Roller ends

• Cutting reel after cleaning

Use a high-quality reel mower oil and apply it evenly. Lubrication is one of the most important steps in winterizing.

Step 4: Inspect and Tighten Hardware

Before storage, take a few minutes to check over your mower.

• Tighten loose bolts and nuts

• Check belts for wear

• Look for any cracked or bent components

It is easier to catch small issues now than to discover them in the middle of mowing season. Shields Reels stocks genuine California Trimmer replacement parts if you need anything replaced.

Step 5: Store It in the Right Place

How and where you store your California Trimmer makes a big difference.

Best Practices

• Store indoors in a dry, covered space if possible

• Keep the mower on a flat surface

• Use a protective cover to shield it from dust and moisture

• If outdoor storage is your only option, invest in a weatherproof cover

At Shields Reels, we carry protective covers designed for California Trimmers and can recommend the best option for your situation.

Final Thoughts

Winterizing your California Trimmer Reel Mower is the best way to protect your investment and keep it performing like new. By cleaning thoroughly, sharpening blades, lubricating parts, inspecting hardware, and storing it properly, you will avoid costly repairs and start spring mowing with ease.

At Shields Reels, we are here to make lawn care simple. As a veteran-owned business, we provide local expertise, free demos, and the right parts and accessories to keep your mower in top condition. Conact us today, or shop here on the website, to get everything you need to winterize your California Trimmer today.