Troubleshooting Your Zero-Turn Mower

When it comes to zero-turn mower maintenance, your first step should always be to diagnose the problem. Unfortunately, many zero-turn mower owners do not know enough about their models to effectively troubleshoot. That is why the experts at PrairieLand Partners have created this guide to troubleshooting your zero-turn mower.

Problem One: Engine Won't Start

There are a number of reasons why your mower’s engine might not be starting. It could be as simple as you forgetting to engage the parking brake. It could also be that the blades are engaged, in which case you should turn the PTO off. Next, check the mower’s battery and spark plugs and make any necessary adjustments or replacements. Finally, check the fuel system to ensure that the fuel is clean and the fuel line flows as normal. 

Problem Two: Zero-Turn Mower Is Vibrating More Than It Should

While your zero-turn mower should experience some vibrating, too much vibration is a bad sign. Start by checking if the cutting blades are loose, dull, bent, or unbalanced. If you have made the necessary adjustments to the blades and are still experiencing problems, check the deck drive belts. They may need to be adjusted or replaced. 

Problem Three: Zero-Turn Mower Isn't Cutting the Grass Evenly

If your mower isn’t cutting the grass evenly, use the information in your owner’s manual to level the deck. If that doesn’t help, the problem might be underinflated tires or damaged cutting blades. Make the necessary adjustments and then see if your zero-turn mower is cutting evenly again. 

Problem Four: Zero-Turn Mower Isn't Mulching the Grass

If you are attempting to use your mower to mulch the grass but it isn’t working, it could be that the grass is simply too high or too wet. If the problem is that the engine isn’t going fast enough, simply put the throttle control into the fast position. 

Problem Five: Engine Is Overheating

If your zero-turn mower’s engine seems to overheat too easily, start by checking the air filter and swapping it out if necessary. Next, try cleaning out any debris that has built up around the engine. Finally, check the engine oil levels and fill it up if it is low.

For more information or to view our selection of zero-turn mowers, visit PrairieLand Partners at one of our sixteen locations throughout Kansas. We also offer financing, trade-ins, parts ordering, and servicing.