I hardly ever change spark plugs. as for the carbon build up in the mufflers. Yes you need to check it as recommended. I thought that was BS, but my BG55 blower almost two years old had the exhaust tube screen plug up and not rev up. I consider myself the routine/servicing nerd always going overboard and it still plugged up in less than two years. had to take torch and burn the carbon away... Somebody recommended I some how loose that screen tube. Not while it under warranty.

Being Honest! My 225 has not been Truly serviced since purchased in Approx 2000. I should talk approx hrs which would avg 3 per season (36 hrs in 12 yrs). I use a hard bladeâÂÂs 95% of the time (every 3rd cut if possible). LOL! I know I have checked the grease in the head.

Most needs will give indicators (if you pay close attention) but I recommend and try to live by schedules.

1. Bad Spark arrest w/n allow a good exhaust output and reduce power.
2. A bad plug will affect starting, fuel use and power. I expect my mower to start 1st pull and 2-3 on the trimmer.
3. A bad fuel filter will starve fuel and power. A bad air filter will cost you more gas as a bad plug.
4. I do check my oil and gas before every cut with my mower even though I expect and get two cuts. Otherwise Red light Comes On!

A friend called when his Zero Turn Nixon locked up. Naturally, I ask what is the oil level showing when I saw it was locked solid. The sad reply was,âÂÂitâÂÂs not showingâÂÂ. When did you check it last, âÂÂI stopped because it never showed low in over a yearâÂÂ. He got lucky, as the Nixon mechanic told him to put thin oil directly in the cyl and force it to turn. That was the middle of a 100 deg day and he was idling to his trailer which I feel influenced more heat and maybe saved his mower. To lock, I feel some damage occurred somewhere but itâÂÂs on a 2nd season with no indications. How can you not check your oil Every Fill-Up???