Top Seven Common Riding Lawn Mower Problems and Solutions

!±8± Top Seven Common Riding Lawn Mower Problems and Solutions

Riding lawn mowers are valuable and incredibly useful tools that can save time and energy spent on yard work. However, riding lawn mowers can have problems and need maintenance. Listed below are seven (7) common riding lawn mower problems along with trouble shooting tips. If a problem cannot be solved from the advice laid out in this article, contact a repair shop.

NOTE: These materials are prepared for use by trained technicians who are experienced in the service and repair of equipment of the kind described in this publication, and are not intended for use by untrained or inexperienced individuals. Such individuals should seek the assistance of a service technician or dealer.

Problem 1: Engine Will Not Crank

Sometimes the simplest solution may fix this riding lawn mower problem. Confirm that all the safety features of the riding lawn mower are functioning correctly. Make sure the mowing deck is not engaged, the parking brake is on and the operator is seated on the riding lawn mower. If one of the safety switches has not been properly activated the riding lawn mower will not start.

The next potential issue to check is the riding lawn mower's battery. In rare cases, the battery cable leads can work loose from the battery terminals. The black negative battery cable must be attached securely to the negative battery terminal. The negative terminal will be marked with a "NEG", "N", or "-" notation. The red positive battery cable should be connected securely to the positive battery terminal and will be marked with a "POS", "P", or "+" notation.

IMPORTANT WARNING: electrolyte is diluted sulfuric acid. Use extreme care to avoid spilling. It can destroy clothing and burn your skin. Test the battery to determine its condition. This can be accomplished by checking the specific gravity of each cell with a hydrometer. A fully charged cell will measure 1.250 specific gravity. Verify that the fluid level in the battery is adequate. If the fluid level is low, fill with distilled water so that it rests just below the split rings; then charge the battery at 5 amps maximum charge for 30 minutes until all cells measure 1.250 specific gravity. If all cells are unable to reach 1.250 specific gravity, replace the battery.

If the battery is in working order, locate the fuse holder(s) and inspect to see if a fuse is blown. Refer to the operator's manual to find the fuse holder(s) location. Check for loose, bare, or pinched wires and replace any blown fuse with the proper amperage automotive fuse. Finally, ensure the engine ground wire is in fact grounded. There should be a black ground wire running from the engine to a non-painted metal surface on the frame or a mounting bolt.

NOTE: Not all riding lawn mowers are equipped with an engine ground wire to frame.

Problem 2: Engine Cranks, But Does Not Start

If the riding lawn mower will not start, check the fuel level. The engine will not fire if there is not enough fuel in the carburetor. It is also possible the fuel line is clogged or blocked. Clean the line and replace the fuel filter to solve this problem.

Make sure the throttle and/or choke is in the proper position. This position can vary from model to model of riding lawn mower. Consult the operator's manual for the proper positioning of the choke and throttle for the riding lawn mower in question.

Faulty spark plugs or disconnected wires can also cause the engine to crank but not start. Run a diagnosis on the spark plug wire connection by using a spark plug tester to see if any plugs are faulty. Clean the gap, making sure it is set properly or replace any faulty spark plugs.

Problem 3: Engine Is Smoking

The most common cause of an engine smoking is having too much oil. Examine the oil level and remove any excess oil if overfilled. The problem should go away once the excess oil burns off. If the smoking persists, it could be possible the engine is losing its crankcase vacuum. Loss of crankcase vacuum can be caused by a broken or improperly seated dipstick, dipstick tube, or valve cover as well as a defective engine breather assembly or other internal engine damage. Replace any defective parts to restore crankcase vacuum pressure.

Problem 4: Unusual and Excessive Vibration

Blades, pulleys and spindles should not be bent or damaged. Mowing over a large object such as rocks, roots, sewer lids etc. can cause damage to the parts. Any damaged parts should be replaced.

A twisted or damaged belt may also be the culprit. All belts should be in good shape and properly routed. Replace the belt if it's torn or shows signs of wear.

Vibrations can also be caused by loose or missing mounting bolts, running the engine at a low RPM, or an improperly adjusted cutting deck.

Problem 5: Bagging, Discharging, or Mulching Poorly

There are a few actions that can be taken to minimize problems with the bagging, discharging and mulching. First, check the engine speed. The engine must be operating at full throttle for the bagging, discharging or mulching functions to work properly. Proper set-up of the deck is critical to the quality of cut. The deck should be level side to side and always lower in the front than the back by 3/8 of an inch. If that does not solve the problem, sharpen or replace the mower blades.

NOTE: Make sure the proper blade is being used for the correct application.

Operating conditions such as wet or exceptionally tall grass can cause poor functionality. To remedy these situations, always allow the lawn to dry prior to cutting, and if the grass is too tall, mow with the deck at a higher setting before mowing at the normal level. Try mowing at a slower rate to get a better and cleaner cut. Lastly, clean out any dirt and debris that has built up on the underside of the deck.

Problem 6: Mower Will Not Cut In Reverse

This is not a problem at all -- it is a safety feature. The cutting deck must be disengaged before the tractor can be shifted into reverse. However if the riding lawn mower was produced in 2005 or later it may be equipped with reverse mowing technology. This allows the operator to mow in reverse. Refer to the operator's manual for instructions.

Problem 7: Tractor Will Not Move Freely In Neutral

Check the operating manual to ensure the transmission relief valve is in the proper position. If it does not move in neutral, make sure the brake is fully releasing.

Top Seven Common Riding Lawn Mower Problems and Solutions

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The Best Zero Turn Mower Cuts Your Lawn With the Minimum Effort

!±8± The Best Zero Turn Mower Cuts Your Lawn With the Minimum Effort

While most people love their lawns, they are less enamored of cutting them. Most people want to get the lawn cut in a hurry, fueling a demand for the best zero turn mower that maker less physical demands of their operators. People with more than 1/2 an acre of lawn to take care of are well-suited to lawn tractors, but these cope poorly with obstacles like rocks, shrubs and trees.

Manufacturers have responded by developing the best zero turn mower, which steers using its rear wheels, in contrast to the traditional front-wheel-steering tractor design. Rear-steering is, admittedly, something that has to be got used to. The best zero turn mower cut so near to obstacles that they almost remove the need to trim, pivoting 180 degrees without leaving a circle of uncut grass.

Snapper's 355Z 24/44 zero-turn mower is a well-built mower intended for residential use. It weighs only 655 pounds without attachments owing to the omission of some of the heavier suspension elements commonly found in mowers. The 355Z was not devised for heavy-duty usage, but will operate comfortably in the average residential setting.

The Swisher Max Z ZT2660B is sufficiently sturdy for commercial use, but can still be afforded by homeowners. Its large-but-stable 60 inch cutting deck performs admirably at all speeds on all terrains. The 26 hp Briggs & Stratton engine provides much kick, moving the unit at 6mph, a very good speed considering the size of the cutting deck. Mulching blades are standard-issue.

The first noticeable thing about the Toro Titan Z4800 Model 74812 is how smoothly it runs. It has an easy-to-use ignition and hydraulically-dampened control levers, making it a pleasure to use. The cutting deck adjustment, foot-controlled, is exceedingly smooth and will adapt easily to uneven terrain or hillsides. Its flotation is impressive on all terrain.

The Troy-Bilt Mustang Colt RZT is a very good and affordable best zero turn mower intended only for residential use - speed decreases markedly on hills and it is unsuited to rugged terrain. It weighs only 480 pounds and has a 42 inch cutting deck. It moves at a maximum of 5.5 mph, somewhat slower than other residential models, which is compensated for by its stable 42 inch cutting deck. Handling and turning are good on surfaces that are level or slightly sloping.

The John Deere Mini Z-Trak 717A handles residential and commercial environments equally well, and has the high price one would thus expect. It can move at up to 9mph. The cut will be consistent even at high speeds or on undulating ground. It takes bumpy terrain in its stride. It is highly recommended by many commercial landscapers.

So the best zero turn mower turns on a dime and the larger the cutting deck, the less time will be spent using one. Forward and reverse control is instant and the field of view is unobstructed. For landscapers or people who would rather be doing something more fun, a the best zero turn mower will yield benefits.

The Best Zero Turn Mower Cuts Your Lawn With the Minimum Effort

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John Deere 04-11 Gator HPX and XUV UTV 72" Blade

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Post Date : Dec 07, 2011 12:17:30
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The SnowSport All Terrain Plow will move as much snow as your ATV/UTV can handle and fits into those hard to reach places where a full size plow can't go. The durable aluminum blade is lightweight and won't tear up your grass or landscaping pavers. Model specific mounts install in minutes and can be completely removed in seconds. The complete package comes standard with our 1 Year Warranty. (ATV/UTV machine not included)

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!±8± SNOW PLOW FOR JOHN DEERE X595 COMPARISON

Comparison between the Arthur Randall Corporation "12 guage" snow plow and a John Deere 54" snow plow for John Deere X-series garden tractors. (WWW.ARTHURRANDALLCORP.COM)

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