Page Contents
- 1 Quick Answer
- 2 Differences Between Self-Propelled and Push Mowers
- 3 Using a Self-Propelled Mower as a Push Mower
- 4 Reasons to Use Self-Propelled Mower as Push Mower
- 5 Tips for Using Self-Propelled Mower as Push Mower
- 6 Self-Propelled Mower Brands
- 7 Self-Propulsion Mechanisms
- 8 Drive Control Types
- 9 Maintenance for Self-Propelled Mowers
- 10 Self-Propelled vs Push Mower Cost
- 11 Should I Choose Self-Propelled or Push Mower?
- 12 Conclusion
Quick Answer
Yes, you can use a self-propelled lawn mower as a push mower. Self-propelled mowers have a drive system that engages the wheels to power the mower forward, but also have the capability to disengage the drive system and operate the mower as a standard push mower. All you need to do is locate the drive control lever or switch and move it to the “disengaged” position. This will allow you to push the mower like a manual walk-behind model.
Differences Between Self-Propelled and Push Mowers
Self-propelled and push mowers share many similarities, but have a few key differences:
Drive System
The main difference is that self-propelled mowers have a drive system that powers the wheels to move the mower forward. Push mowers do not have a drive system and must be pushed by hand.
Drive Engagement
Self-propelled mowers allow you to engage and disengage the drive system. Engaging the drive allows the mower to self-propel, while disengaging lets you use it as a push mower. Push mowers do not have this capability.
Speed Control
Many self-propelled mowers allow you to vary the speed by adjusting the drive control. This allows you to mow at your own pace. Push mowers rely solely on your walking speed to control pace.
Maneuverability
Push mowers give you complete control over the mower’s direction and maneuverability. Self-propelled mowers can be slightly harder to maneuver in tight spaces with the drive engaged.
Slope Handling
Self-propelled mowers excel on slopes and hills because the drive system powers the mower uphill. Push mowers require more physical effort on inclines.
Using a Self-Propelled Mower as a Push Mower
The process for converting a self-propelled mower to push mode is quick and easy:
Step 1: Locate the Drive Control
There will be a lever, switch, or button on the mower’s handlebars or controls that is used to engage and disengage the drive system. Common names for this control include “variable speed control”, “drive control lever”, “shift lever”, etc. Consult your owner’s manual if you cannot find it.
Step 2: Disengage the Drive
With the mower off, move the drive control to the “disengaged” or “push” position. This will release the traction drive and allow you to push the mower freely. The wheels will spin independently instead of being powered.
Step 3: Push the Mower
With the drive disengaged, you can now push and maneuver the mower like a standard walk-behind model using the handlebars. Go at your own pace by pushing, stopping, and turning the mower as needed.
Step 4: Re-engage the Drive When Done
When finished mowing in push mode, simply move the drive control back to the “engaged” position to reactivate the self-propelled system. The drive will re-engage when the mower is turned on again.
Reasons to Use Self-Propelled Mower as Push Mower
Here are some common reasons you may want to disable the drive on a self-propelled mower and use it manually:
- Mowing small areas – Disengaging the drive improves maneuverability in tight spaces.
- New or uneven turf – Pushing the mower allows you to go slower over rough terrain.
- Mower drive is broken – Lets you continue mowing if the drive stops working.
- Save drive for hills – Push mow on the flat part, engage drive for inclines.
- Exercise benefit – Pushing the mower increases exertion and calories burned.
- Prefer walking pace – Go your own speed by manually pushing the mower.
- Thicker grass – Pushing may provide more power for cutting thicker grass.
In any situation where you want more control over the mower, turning off the drive allows you to push it like a manual model.
Tips for Using Self-Propelled Mower as Push Mower
Follow these tips when converting your self-propelled mower to push mode:
- Locate the owner’s manual – Consult the manual if you can’t find the drive control.
- Release parking brake – The mower may have a brake that needs to be disengaged.
- Adjust cutting height – Raise the deck for easier pushing through thick grass.
- Clear debris – Remove sticks/rocks from the lawn that could impede pushing.
- Watch the slope – Don’t disengage the drive on very steep hills.
- Re-engage drive slowly – Gradually reactivate the drive to avoid lurching.
- Check belt tension – Loose drive belts can affect self-propelled function.
- Let engine warm up – Give the engine a few minutes to warm before mowing.
Taking it slowly and gently when transitioning between self-propelled and push mode will allow the mower to function at its best in either capacity.
Self-Propelled Mower Brands
Most major lawn mower brands offer self-propelled mower models that can also be used manually:
| Brand | Self-Propelled Models |
|---|---|
| Toro | Super Recycler, Timemaster, Personal Pace |
| Honda | HRX, HRR, HRC self-propelled series |
| Troy-Bilt | TB110, TB200, TB230, Pony |
| Husqvarna | LC221RH, LB155SPH, LB175SPH |
| Craftsman | 37037, 37115, 37140 self-propelled models |
| Greenworks | 25302, 25322, 60V 21” self-propelled |
| Ego | 21” LM2100SP, LM2101SP, LM2102SP |
| Snapper | SP60V, SP80V, NAXV20380 |
| Ariens | 969152, 969003, 937037 |
| Lawn-Boy | 10739, 17739 self-propelled models |
Check your mower model against this list to see if it has push capability. Most reputable self-propelled brands enable the drive to be disengaged.
Self-Propulsion Mechanisms
Self-propelled lawn mowers use three main mechanisms to power the drive:
Front Wheel Drive
A transmission and gearbox transfer power from the engine to the front wheels. The front wheels pull the mower forward. Common on lower-cost and smaller self-propelled mowers.
Rear Wheel Drive
The rear wheels are driven via a transmission, belts, or gears connected to the engine. Provides more traction and power on inclines. Typically seen on larger, premium self-propelled mowers.
All Wheel Drive
Power is supplied to all four mower wheels. Provides maximum traction and handling, especially on uneven or hilly terrain. Found on high-end self-propelled models.
Disengaging the drive disconnects the transmission or gearbox from the wheels, allowing them to freewheel manually. The specific method depends on the type of drive system.
Drive Control Types
Self-propelled mowers use various types of controls to engage and disengage the traction drive:
Shift Lever
A pivoting lever with settings for neutral, engage, and reverse. Shifting the lever disengages and engages the drive.
Deadman Control
Squeezing a bail-type lever on the handlebar engages the drive. Releasing the lever stops the drive.
Variable Speed Control
A sliding lever or rotating dial lets you vary the speed from 0 mph up to the mower’s maximum speed.
Electric Switch
An on/off toggle switch activates and deactivates the electric drive on electric self-propelled models.
The owner’s manual will explain how to operate the specific drive control on your mower. Locate this control and move it to the “disengaged” position to disable the self-propulsion.
Maintenance for Self-Propelled Mowers
To keep a self-propelled mower’s drive system running smoothly:
- Check drive belts – Replace worn or cracked belts.
- Lubricate drive gears – Keep gears properly oiled.
- Check wheel traction – Clean or replace bald wheels.
- Check control cable – Adjust or change damaged control cables.
- Change transmission oil – Drain and replace old oil.
- Replace fuel filter – Stop debris from clogging carburetor.
- Check blade brake clutch – Fix clutch if drive engages with blade engaged.
Performing regular maintenance will prevent many issues with the self-propelled drive and keep the mower running optimally as both a self-propelled and push unit.
Self-Propelled vs Push Mower Cost
Self-propelled mowers typically cost $100-$300+ more than a comparable push mower:
| Mower Type | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Gas push mower | $150-$300 |
| Gas self-propelled mower | $250-$500+ |
| Electric push mower | $200-$400 |
| Electric self-propelled mower | $300-$600+ |
The self-propulsion drive system parts like transmissions, gears, and controls add cost compared to a standard push mower. However, the ability to disengage the drive on self-propelled models gives you capabilities of both mower types.
Should I Choose Self-Propelled or Push Mower?
Consider the following factors when deciding between self-propelled and push mowers:
- Yard terrain – Self-propelled excels on hills, push offers maximum maneuverability.
- Yard size – Self-propelled saves time on large properties.
- User mobility – Self-propelled helps users with mobility issues.
- Grass thickness – Self-propelled powers through thick overgrown grass.
- Budget – Push mowers carry a lower purchase price.
- Maintenance – Self-propelled has more parts to maintain.
- Availability of self-propelled option – Lets you have the benefits of both mower types.
If your yard is hilly or over half an acre, a self-propelled mower can save time and effort. For smaller flat yards, a push mower may meet your needs. Self-propelled models with push capability offer versatility to handle any mowing conditions.
Conclusion
The ability to disengage the drive on self-propelled mowers allows them to function as standard push mowers. Locating the shift lever or control and moving it to the “push” or “disengaged” mode lets you manually push the mower at your own pace. Reasons to use self-propelled mowers in push mode include increased maneuverability, exercising, and saving the drive for slopes. With proper maintenance, a self-propelled mower can provide both the convenience of power assistance and complete manual control when needed. Considering your yard terrain and mowing preferences will help determine if a self-propelled model with push capability is the right choice for your lawn care needs.
