The Toro genuine parts guide to winter mower oil and filter replacement

Following our recent article on the importance of choosing genuine Toro parts, we’ll now explore the best practices to get winter oil and filter care right and ensure your fleet is ready to perform in spring.

Why oil and filter maintenance should be carried out in winter

Harsh weather, longer periods of inactivity and increased moisture exposure all make winter a critical time for maintenance. Even when a machine is parked, old oil and clogged filters can continue to cause internal wear.

Over time, oil absorbs moisture from the air

If left in the oil pan or engine over winter, this moisture can contribute to internal corrosion, reduced lubrication, thickening of the oil, and increased wear on components during the next start-up. Too much oil in the engine can also exacerbate wear, so always check the level via the oil dipstick before adding more.

Filters become saturated as they load with contaminants

During the season contaminants enter filters, weakening their ability to protect internal components. If not replaced, they can allow fine debris back into the system, restrict fluid flow, impact fuel efficiency and even lead to engine damage or unexpected downtime come spring.

The importance of mower oil and filter replacement

Replacing oil, air and fuel filters is the first step to ensure every system is protected when temperatures drop and engines are forced to work harder.

Oil filters

• An oil filter removes harmful debris and contaminants from circulating oil.
• A clogged or low-quality filter reduces oil flow, increases engine temperatures and accelerates wear, so always replace your filter whenever it’s time for an oil change.
• Genuine Toro oil filters are designed to handle the exact flow rates and pressure requirements of Toro engines, ensuring maximum protection during winter starts.

Air filters

• While cold weather makes engines work harder, a clean air filter helps mitigate this strain by delivering the correct air–fuel ratio during cold starts and prevents dust and debris from entering the engine.
• Toro’s genuine air filters provide the correct filtration density while allowing consistent airflow, something that cheaper aftermarket filters often compromise.

Fuel filters

• Winter condensation inside fuel tanks increases the risk of moisture entering the fuel system.
• A quality, genuine fuel filter prevents water droplets and fine contaminants from reaching the injectors or carburettors, preventing corrosion, blocked injectors and poor ignition performance. However, if fitted, the water-fuel separator at the bottom of the fuel filter should be drained daily.

Fuel care during winter storage

When preparing machines for winter, proper fuel management is just as important as oil and filter replacement. This is because modern petrol contains higher levels of ethanol that can attract moisture from the atmosphere. This moisture often accumulates at the bottom of the tank, increasing the risk of corrosion and impacting engine performance.

Ageing fuel can also leave behind a varnish-like residue as lighter elements evaporate. This residue can block fine drillings and jets within carburettors and fuel systems, leading to hard starting, rough running and, in severe cases, the need for a full fuel system strip-down and clean.

To avoid these issues, consider adding a suitable winter fuel stabiliser or fully draining remaining fuel from petrol-powered machines before prolonged storage. 

Changing oil: best practice for winter servicing

With filters taken care of, the next step in preparing your machine for winter is replacing old oil to avoid engine damage and performance drops. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started.

1. Warm the machine briefly before draining

Run the engine for several minutes to warm the oil – this thins it out and ensures contaminants remain in suspension, allowing a cleaner oil drain.

2. Drain oil carefully and safely

• Park on level ground
• Use appropriate PPE (gloves, eye protection)
• Place a suitable container beneath the drain plug
• Allow all oil to drain fully without rushing the process

When you change the oil, make sure to properly dispose of used oil and always follow your facility’s environmental guidelines.

3. Replace the oil filter

Remove the used oil filter and replace it with a genuine Toro filter designed for your machine model. Lightly oil the new filter’s rubber seal before fitting and ensure it is tightened to the correct torque.

4. Refill the oil level with genuine Toro products

Check the oil dipstick and add oil to reach the recommended level using genuine Toro lubricants, which are engineered specifically for Toro machines, guaranteeing:

• Correct viscosity in cold conditions
• Optimal lubrication at start-up
• Reduced wear
• Longer service intervals

5. Run and re-check

Once refilled, start the machine briefly, allow oil to circulate and then re-check levels, topping up if necessary. This also gives a chance to check spark plugs, mower blades and other key components before storing the machine for winter.

6. Always consult the operator’s manual

Before carrying out any oil or filter changes, always consult the operator’s or manufacturer’s manual for each machine.

Model-specific guidance on service intervals, filter part numbers, and oil grades is essential to ensure safe, effective maintenance. Following the manufacturer’s instructions helps protect operator safety and the long-term reliability of your equipment.

Support from your local Reesink branch

Reesink’s branch network is fully stocked with genuine Toro parts, oils, filters and seasonal servicing kits. Branch teams offer:

• Expert parts advice
• Next-day delivery on most items
• Toro-trained technicians for servicing and repairs
• ReeAssure maintenance plans (Gold, Silver and Bronze tiers)
• Collection and delivery options for workshop servicing

For many clubs, venues, and grounds teams, winter is also the time to schedule professional servicing. Contact your nearest Toro-trained Reesink branch for support on maintaining, repairing and preparing your machinery for spring.

Visit www.reesinkturfcare.co.uk to learn more or call 01480 226800 to speak with one of our experts.