UK students offer Lawn Mower Clinic in April

LEXINGTON, Ky., (Mar 25, 2011)

With warmer temperatures and recent rainfall, the Bluegrass is greening up and the sound of lawn mowers will soon be in the air. But before spring and summer get into full swing, the lawn mower may need a little attention.

Each year, students in the University of Kentucky Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering Preprofessionals organization host a Lawn Mower Clinic to help folks get their mowers in good shape for the season. This year’s clinic is April 13 through 16. Students will perform lawn mower maintenance services including oil changes, clean and gap spark plugs, sharpen and balance blades, thorough cleaning (including air filter) and drain fuel systems.

The clinic was originally established as a fundraiser but now enjoys success beyond dollars and cents. Organizers say the ability to give students practical experience is the real benefit. The students get to fine-tune hands-on skills and to learn customer service.

The clinic is designed to offer preventative maintenance for lawn mowers. Spots are limited and must be reserved in advance. The charge is $35 per mower; Honda mower service is $40 because of extra time requirements to change oil in these machines. Services do not include repairs; only working machines are accepted. To reserve a spot, call 859-257-3000, ext. 113 or email baelawnmowerclinic@gmail.com. Leave a message including name, number, make and model of mower and whether or not the mower needs a new spark plug ($4 additional fee).

Bring the mower to the Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering machinery shop April 13 through 15 between 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. EDT. The shop is located on Stadium View, off College Way and Alumni Drive. Owners may pick up their mowers April 16.

The organization will donate 10 percent of the proceeds to the Larry Turner Scholarship Fund. The rest of the proceeds support the organization’s activities and competitions. 

Contact: 859-257-3000, ext. 113

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