Tips for Zero-Turn Mower Maintenance
Zero-turn mowers are not only easy to operate, they are also incredibly powerful so you can handle whatever a lawn has to throw at you. However, even though these machines are rugged and durable, they can still get clogged with grass and debris, lose sharpness, and otherwise lose functionality if you don’t keep up with periodic maintenance.
Regular upkeep on your end can help keep your mower running smoothly, extend its life, and reduce the amount of money you spend on repairs.
At Boehm Tractor Sales, we want our customers to have all the information they need to take care of their equipment. That’s why we've gathered up some basic zero-turn mower maintenance tasks that even beginners can handle. If you have any questions or need to get your mower serviced, visit our dealership in Shiner, Texas.
Check the Owner’s Manual
First and foremost, the best thing you can do is to read your owner’s manual. It will have all the details you need to take care of your zero-turn mower, including any specific maintenance guidelines, as well as service scheduling. There are a lot of problems that can be solved with a quick look at the owner’s manual, saving you the time and energy of calling a professional. You can also use the manual to write down whatever maintenance you perform, as well as any repairs you make, which will be useful if you choose to sell your mower down the road.
Keep the Deck Clean
Grass clippings, mud, and debris can cling to your zero-turn mower’s deck and cause issues. A clogged undercarriage can face overheating problems, making it less effective at cutting the grass. Drive the mower on a small ramp to get better access to the cutting deck, and then use a hose with a high-pressure nozzle to clear away the debris.
Spark Plugs
Your zero-turn mower will face long periods of downtime and then periods of intense uptime. This can put undue stress on your spark plugs. It's best to replace them at least once a year to keep your engine running well. If your spark plugs aren't pre-gapped, then you will need a plug gap tool to get the gap at the ideal width.
Check the Air Filter
Perhaps the most common mistake in zero-turn mower maintenance is ignoring the air filter. Air filters can easily become clogged with dirt and debris. This can cause serious problems, like preventing enough air from getting to the engine, which results in low fuel efficiency. The air filter can become so clogged that it creates suction that’ll tear right through it and make way for debris to get into the cylinder. Check the air filters regularly and replace them whenever required to avoid expensive repairs.
Sharpen the Blades
Sharpening your mower blades is a must. Dull blades won’t cut the grass as evenly and will increase the time it takes to finish a task. All you need is a file or grinder to get that blade back into shape. It helps grind off all the dull material so you’ll be left with a sharp blade ready to effectively cut the grass again. You want to make sure that the blade moves quickly through the air and cuts the grass without shredding it up.
Storage
Before you put your mower in storage at the end of the season, you will want to perform some preventative maintenance tasks. First, drain out the gasoline. Gasoline can separate and break down during storage, which then leaves behind a corrosive sludge at the bottom of the tank. Removing gasoline helps prevent this. Another option is to add a fuel stabilizer to your tank.
Next, clean your mower thoroughly. This will help prevent the accumulated grime from damaging the exterior. Finally, find a good location to store your mower. Try to pick a spot that will be protected from the elements, such as a garage or shed. If this isn't an option, use a breathable cover to protect your machine.
We hope this guide was useful! If you want more zero-turn mower maintenance advice, head over to Boehm Tractor Sales in Shiner, TX. Our team of courteous professionals will be happy to assist you with whatever you need, from repairing your equipment to helping you find a new model that suits your budget. We proudly serve all those in Seguin and Austin.