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How to Safely Start a Zero-Turn Mower

Jul. 27 2021 Ownership Tips By Stoneham's Motorsports

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There are several perks that you’ll get to enjoy when you buy a zero-turn lawn mower. Most importantly, these machines make it easy for you to mow the grass and keep your yard in good shape. However, you’ll need to learn a few basics if this is your first time using a zero-turn mower, specifically when it comes to starting it safely. Fortunately, we’re here to help. The experts at Stoneham's Motorsports have provided some useful tips for this. Keep reading to learn more, and if you’ve any questions or you need assistance with service or repairs, get in touch with us at our dealership in Waynesboro and Everett, PA.

Before You Begin

The first thing you’ll want to do before starting the mower is to scan the area for any potential hazards. Remove any rocks, sticks, or other debris that could affect the performance of your machine. Also, check if the grass that you’re about to mow is wet or dry. Remember that wet grass can cause the wheels on your zero-turn lawn mower to slip so you’ll want to be extra careful.

Starting It Up

To ensure your safety when you start a zero-turn mower, you’ll want to follow the steps given below:

  • Once you’re comfortably seated on your zero-turn mower, check the fuel sector near the seat or the gasoline tank. If it’s in the off position, turn it to the left or right to activate the fuel supply. You’ll find the fuel sector near the seat or the gasoline tank.
  • Next, lift your mower’s parking brake and pull the brake to the vertical position.
  • Push the round handle (PTO switch) that you’ll find near the control panel.
  • Position the traction levers after steering into neutral and keep the throttle lever upward for high speed.
  • If your mower’s engine is warm, there’s no need to engage the choke. However, for a cold start, you’ll want to pull the choke button.
  • Next, release the brake, slowly push the choke and start the engine using the ignition key.
  • To engage the mower blades, pull the PTO switch upward. When you’re ready to move the mower forward, push the levers and use the motion bars.

Controlling a Zero-Turn Lawn Mower

Most zero-turn mowers can be controlled using two levers. Moving both levers forward will make the machine go in a straight line forward. Moving both levers backward will put the zero-turn mower in reverse. Moving just one lever will make the wheels on that side move forward or backward. Steering, acceleration, and braking are all controlled using the levers as opposed to the wheel, throttle, and brake pedals. This simplifies the zero-turn mower operating process.

We hope that these tips are helpful next time you start your zero-turn lawn mower. Visit us at Stoneham's Motorsports in Waynesboro and Everett, Pennsylvania, if you’d like to browse our selection of zero-turn mowers for sale. We welcome all those in Hagerstown, MD, and Bedford, PA.