February 01, 2015

When to maintain a zero-turn lawn tractor

When to maintain a zero-turn lawn tractor.
When to maintain a zero-turn lawn tractor.

Taking care of your zero turn lawn tractor is the easiest way to get a good cut and avoid costly repairs.

Knowing what you should check–and when–helps you set a schedule for routine maintenance that keeps your zero-turn riding mower working well. 

  • Before each use, check the condition and air pressure of the tires. Visually inspect the belts for cracks or nicks. Inspect the blades and tighten as needed.

  • After each use, clean debris and clippings from the deck and exhaust areas. Lubricate critical wear points, such as the mower lift brackets.

  • Once a month, clean the spindle bearings and the V-belt.

  • After every 25 hours of use, grease the spindle bearings. After every 50 hours, lubricate all wear points and grease fittings. After every 100 hours of use, remove and clean the cooling shrouds and check and secure all fasteners.

  • At the end of the season–before storing the mower–lubricate all pivot points, the control handle and the extension spring.

Repair guides for rear-engine riding mowers

How to adjust the neutral control on a zero-turn riding mower

How to adjust the neutral control on a zero-turn riding mower

Adjust the neutral control if your zero-turn riding mower creeps forward or backward while both steering lap bars are in...

Repair difficulty
Time required
45 minutes or less
How to remove the mower deck on a zero-turn riding mower

How to remove the mower deck on a zero-turn riding mower

Follow the steps in this guide to remove the mower deck for cleaning or inspection....

Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less
How to replace a cutting blade on a zero-turn riding mower

How to replace a cutting blade on a zero-turn riding mower

Replace a bent or dull cutting blade in 30 minutes or less. ...

Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less

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