Step-by-step guide to changing the oil and oil filter on a John Deere D100 ride-on mower. Covers the tools you need, safety steps, and the full procedure to keep your mower running well and extend its life.
To help your ride on mower last a long time, it's important to perform regular, scheduled maintenance. Let's start with changing the oil and oil filter. It's all pretty easy. You'll need an oil filter wrench, an oil drain pan, a funnel and clean rags. You'll also need new oil and a new oil filter, safety glasses and gloves designed to resist chemicals. Check your operator's manual to make sure you have the right filter and oil for your engine. And for important safety information. Start by running the engine for a minute or two. This warms up the oil so it'll drain easier. Park the mower safely on a hard, flat surface with the engine shut off, parking brake on and key removed. Place the drain pan under the engine's oil plug and start draining the oil. Be careful, the oil could be very hot. Loosening the dipstick will increase oil flow. After a few minutes, the oil should be drained out of the engine. Properly close the drain plug and move the oil drain pan under the oil filter, turning counterclockwise. Remove the filter. Use an oil filter wrench. If the filter is too tight to loosen by hand, drain the oil out of the filter and dispose of it properly. Used oil should never go into the trash or down the drain. Check with your local recycling officials for oil recycling options in your area. You're now ready to install the new oil filter. First, use a clean rag to remove any dirt near the oil filter area. Once that's done, also clean up any spills of old oil. Then place a few drops of clean oil onto the rubber gasket of the new oil filter. Spin the filter onto the engine, being careful not to over tighten turn the filter, but to never overfill. How often should you change your oil? John Deere recommends an initial oil change after eight hours of use. This is sometimes called a break in oil change. After that, change oil at least once a year and more often if you mow in dusty conditions. Your operator's manual will have the recommended maintenance schedule for your mower. Or for quick reference, there's a machine maintenance sticker usually located in the engine compartment area. Make sure your engine is ready for work. Check the oil level every time before you mow. That's the basics to changing the oil and oil filter for your ride on mower. For more detailed information, read your operator's manual. Proper machine maintenance is the best way to make sure your mower starts quickly, runs efficiently, and mows a beautiful lawn. To purchase parts, visit your local John Deere dealer.
