What is the proper way to mow with a zero turn mower?

Mowing with a zero turn mower can seem intimidating at first, but with the right techniques and safety precautions, it can become second nature. A zero turn mower is able to make quick, tight turns and change directions instantly, which allows you to mow in less time. However, there are some key things you should know before getting started.

Choosing the Right Zero Turn Mower

Not all zero turn mowers are created equal. When selecting a zero turn mower, there are a few key factors to consider:

Cutting width – Zero turn mowers come in cutting widths ranging from 36 inches to 72 inches. Choose a wider cutting width if you have a large, open yard. Narrower widths are more maneuverable for intricate landscaping.

Engine power – More horsepower means a faster cutting speed, which is important for larger yards. Look for at least 20 hp.
Comfort features – Look for a comfortable seat, ergonomic controls, and smooth suspension for the best mowing experience.
Build quality – Commercial mowers have heavier deck gauges, stronger frames, and better components. Opt for commercial grade if mowing frequently.

Terrain – Certain zero turn mowers are designed to better handle hills, uneven terrain, or soft/wet grass.
Price – Zero turn mowers range from $2,000 to over $10,000. Set a realistic budget for your needs.

Take time to test drive different zero turn mowers to find the right balance of cutting width, power, comfort, and maneuverability for your yard.

Safety Tips

Zero turn mowers allow you to mow quickly and efficiently. However, they can be dangerous if not used properly. Follow these important safety tips:

Wear closed toe shoes and avoid loose clothing that could get caught in moving parts.
Clear the area of debris like sticks, rocks, toys, etc. that could be thrown by the blades.

Keep hands and feet away from the underside when engine is running.
Go slowly at first as you learn to maneuver. Accelerate carefully.
Use extreme caution on slopes, keeping blade speed slow.

Never allow extra riders, especially children.
Disengage blades when not mowing.
Shut off engine before making adjustments or maintenance.

Keep guards in place and watch for prompts to service safety features.

Always put safety first when operating a zero turn mower. Proper gear, precautions, and operation technique will allow you to mow safely.

Preparing to Mow

Part of mowing properly is setting yourself up for success in the mowing process. Here are some tips for preparing to mow with a zero turn mower:

Survey your yard and remove any debris, toys, hoses, etc. that could interfere with mowing.
Check and fill fuel and oil levels.
Examine blades for sharpness. Sharpen or replace per manufacturer guidelines.

Adjust cutting height if needed.
Make sure you’re wearing sturdy shoes, safety glasses, and hearing protection.
Have an emergency shut off plan in case you need to quickly power down.

Know the yard hazards – low hanging limbs, water features, slopes, etc.

Taking time to survey the area and get the mower ready will allow you to mow efficiently and without interruptions later.

Starting & Shutting Down

Zero turn mowers have a specific starting and shut down procedure for safe operation. Follow these steps:

Starting

Sit in operator seat.
Disengage blade control.
Engage parking brake.

Turn ignition key to start engine without engaging blades.
Allow engine to warm up for a few minutes before operating.
Release parking brake.

Gradually engage blade control to start mowing.

Shutting Down

Stop forward motion.
Disengage blade control.

Engage parking brake.
Let engine idle for 1-2 minutes to gradually cool down.
Turn ignition key to shut off engine.

Remove key and store safely until next use.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely for starting and shutting down your mower safely and properly.

Mowing Techniques

It takes practice to become skilled at maneuvering a zero turn mower. With experience, you’ll be mowing efficiently. Here are some key techniques:

Go Slow Until Skilled

Zero turn mowers can spin and turn quickly, so start slow. Get a feel for how your mower handles and accelerates before attempting tight turns at full speed.

Use Gradual Inputs

Avoid jerky movements of the control levers. Gentle, gradual lever inputs will allow smooth operation.

Keep Control Levers Even

Try to keep levers at an even level as you learn. If one lever is farther forward, it will cause you to turn tighter in that direction.

Practice Turning

Get experience making wide, gradual turns as well as quick, tight spins. Learn to operate and turn in all parts of the yard.

Watch Your Speed

Slow down before making a turn to avoid tipping. Control speed with the levers throughout the mowing process.

Mow in Circles

Mow in increasingly larger circles around the perimeter of your yard, then work from the outside in. This prevents you from getting trapped.

Alternate Direction

Change up your mowing direction each time to avoid creating ruts or a specific grain in the grass over time.

Overlap Slightly

Overlap each mowing pass slightly to ensure complete, even cutting across the yard.

Avoid Extreme Terrain

Use caution when mowing on slopes or other uneven terrain. Go slowly and avoid overly sharp turns.

With patience and regular practice, you will get comfortable with maneuvering the zero turn mower like a pro.

Mowing Patterns

In addition to proper techniques, following an efficient mowing pattern can produce professional results and allow you to mow your yard quickly. Here are some of the best mowing patterns to use with a zero turn mower:

Perimeter Mowing

Mow around the outer perimeter of the yard first.

Mow in an increasingly smaller rectangle until reaching the middle.
Great for detailed trimming and defining edges.

Diagonal Mowing

Mow diagonally across yard, overlapping slightly.

Make diagonals in opposite direction for second pass.
Alternate diagonal direction with each mowing.

Circle Mowing

Start mowing in increasingly larger circles around the edge of the yard.

Gradually work towards the middle.
Lets you gradually approach tighter spaces.

Section Mowing

Divide yard into sections and mow one at a time.

Can help when mowing specific features like gardens.
Eliminates crisscrossing and overlapping.

Try out different patterns and choose one that fits your yard best. Consistently following a mowing pattern will give you the cleanest cut.

Mowing Tips & Tricks

Follow these additional professional tips and tricks for the highest quality cut when mowing with a zero turn mower:

Always mow at full throttle for the best cutting power.
Engage the blades quickly for a clean cut rather than easing into the grass slowly.

For taller grass, mow once at a high cutting height, then again at desired height.
Mow when the grass is dry to prevent clumping and rust on the blades.
Mow frequently, removing only 1/3 of the grass blade per cut for a consistent look.

Vary your mowing direction and pattern to avoid matting and grain lines.
Keep blades sharp. Replace when bent, damaged, or severely worn.
Clean the underside of the deck after each use to prevent buildup.

Adjust cutting height for seasonal variation and grass type.

Using proper technique plus these tips will have your yard looking professionally maintained.

Common Mowing Mistakes

It’s also helpful to know the most common mowing mistakes, so you can be sure to avoid them:

Mowing while grass is wet – Clumps grass and dulls blades.
Cutting too low – Causes damage, heat stress, and weed growth.
Mowing in same pattern – Creates ruts and grainy appearance over time.

Forgetting to clean under deck – Lets clippings accumulate and decompose.
Not overlapping passes – Leaves uncut strips between passes.
Turning on a slope – Can cause dangerous sliding or tipping.

Hitting obstacles – Damages blades and deck.
Not monitoring air filter – Leads to poor engine performance.
Ignoring vibration – Indicates damaged or unbalanced blades.

Failing to sharpen blades – Requires more power and tears grass.

Being aware of common mistakes and making a point to avoid them will lead to your best results when mowing.

Maintaining Your Zero Turn Mower

Proper maintenance is crucial for keeping a zero turn mower running efficiently and lasting a long time. Here are key maintenance tips:

Regular Service

Check engine oil before each use. Change per manufacturer specification (usually every 50 hours).
Inspect air filter frequently. Replace when dirty.
Grease fittings and check tire pressure periodically.

Change fuel filter per manufacturer recommendation.
Check belts for cracks and tension. Adjust or replace when needed.

Daily Cleaning

Clear grass clippings and debris from under the deck daily.

Wash deck underside with a garden hose periodically.
Blow off engine compartment and vents with compressed air.
Check and clean radiator screen as needed.

Blade Care

Inspect blade condition before each mowing.
Sharpen blades 1-2 times per month or as needed.
Replace bent or damaged blades immediately.

Balance blades regularly for smooth operation.

Following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and your owner’s manual is key. Additional cleaning and observation will also help maximize your mower’s lifespan.

Winterizing Your Zero Turn Mower

Zero turn mowers require special winterization steps for storage during cold weather months. Here is how to winterize your mower properly:

Clean the mower thoroughly – remove all grass clippings, debris, grease, dirt, etc.
Change the engine oil and filter so fresh oil sits over winter.
Completely empty the fuel tank or add stabilizer to prevent deterioration.

Remove the spark plug and pour about an ounce of oil in the cylinder. Replace plug.
Lubricate linkages, pulleys, cables, and gears thoroughly.
Apply dielectric grease to any electrical connections to prevent corrosion.

Fully charge the battery. Consider removal if storing in extremely cold weather.
Inflate tires to maximum PSI rating.
Store mower in a protected area away from the elements all winter.

Taking time for proper winterization will ensure your zero turn mower starts right up again next spring.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of mowing with a zero turn mower takes some guidance and practice but is very rewarding. Follow the proper techniques and safety tips outlined here to get professional results from your zero turn mower. Take time to prepare the lawn and mower, go slow as you build skill, and stick to efficient mowing patterns. Avoid common mistakes, perform regular maintenance, and properly winterize your machine. With the right process, you’ll be mowing your yard smoothly and efficiently in no time.