Fixed. The Other Side Of A Zero Turn Mower Not Working Reasons & Solutions
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A zero-turn mower is a great tool for maintaining your lawn. What if the one side of your zero-turn mower stops working?
Our engineers can help you fix the problem by explaining the causes.
Overview Of Possible Causes And Corresponding Solutions
9 Reasons Your Mower Doesn’t Work On One Side
Reason #1: Tire Compression On Either Side Is Unmatched
Most mowers use a single-cylinder engine. This means that the right side of your mower has more resistance and weight.
This can lead to unmatched compression in your mower’s tires and wheels. It is important to ensure that your mower functions properly in order to avoid any potential hazards while you are mowing.
How to Fix
Tire pressures on one side may be different, which can lead to the mower’s ability to engage less. You can fix this problem by checking that both tires have the exact same pressure with a tire gauge.
After you have verified that the tires are not matched, inflate them with the required pressure.
Reason #2: The Freewheeling Rod Overrides
You will find the freewheeling rod near the blade control lever. This allows you to remove the blade from the engine without turning it off. It also works seamlessly when the rod has been properly inserted.
This rod can damage or bend your mower’s function.
How to Fix
You should check if your lawn mower’s freewheeling rod is bending or damaged. It could also be bent or damaged.
The first step is to check the level of the fluid. Next, you need to inspect the filter on the weaker side. You should replace any obvious issues immediately if they are found. You can also adjust it to ensure it doesn’t override.
Reason #3: Dragging Brake
When you start your mower, the brake holds the blade in its place. This brake can cause your mower to drag if it isn’t working correctly.
The piston could also get stuck in the brake pads and cause them to misalign or seize. This issue can also cause single-piston brake calipers to seize.
How to Fix
You can do this by removing the tire. To release the pads for sliding pins and seized caliper pistons, use a single-C clamp.
It is possible for a brake to seize again even if it has been freed. It is likely that corrosion caused it to become stuck. It will take some time to get it out.
Alternativly, adjust the tension of your brake cables to fix a dragging stopper. Instructions on how to do it can be found in the manual of your mower.
Reason #4: Striped Spline
The spline, a small metal piece connecting your mower’s shaft to the blade, is what you need. The spline can cause your blade’s wobble if it is removed.
The condition of the pulley can be affected by the speed and torque of the zero-turn mower. These little parts will eventually be removed. A worn-out or weak spline could prevent the zero-turn one from functioning properly.
How to Fix
You can change the spindles by removing the three-bolt cover. Next, remove the cover from the socket using a -inch wrench.
Use the same wrench to remove the belt. Next, loosen the pulley by using the same wrench. Finally, lower the belt with a socket wrench and cheater bar. Finally, you can use a 1 inch wrench to remove the nut from the top of the spindles.
Reason #5: Adjustment To The Traction
The traction adjustment on one side is wrong, which causes the blade to stop spinning when it is engaged. If both the throttles are moved forward simultaneously, one wheel can transfer more power to the other. This causes the mower to push toward the weaker side.
How to Fix
The traction may need to be adjusted if the mower’s one side is slipping. For more information on your particular model, you will need to consult the user manual. This can be a complex process so it is best to consult an expert or guide.
Tip: Lowering tire pressure can improve traction. To avoid abrupt turns or rapid stops on a hill, you can use larger tires.
Reason #6: Old Or Bad Dampers
These dampeners reduce excessive load on the pumps and increase the mower’s efficiency. The springs pull the control arms back when the units are in neutral.
Your lawn mower will therefore pull to one side while you accelerate.
How to Fix
As the easiest solution, you will need to replace your dampers with brand new ones. We recommend that you also change the springs. The reason is that the steering arms may not be properly pushed back after they have been replaced.
Reason #7: Hydrostatic Motor Air Pressure
Cavitation can occur in your hydrostatic system when you use your lawnmower. This happens when the hydrostatic system is flooded with air, creating a fluid that allows for an air pocket. Your mower will become weaker on one side.
- The hydro can be removed. Pull or push the rods of both drives to disengage them.
- You can take a seat on the mower, and then increase the throttle to maximum speed.
- You should ensure that the hydros have been properly disconnected. Once you are ready, turn off the mower.
- Hold the forward drive for a few seconds after activating it. Next, turn the engine off and reverse the forward and reverse movements several times. This will remove any air buildup from the motors. Turn off the engine after that.
- After you have lowered the jack, brake the mower and it will return to the ground. Next, turn on the hydros and take out the chocks.
- Check your hydro fluid levels. Add hydro fluid to any level that is low.
- Do a final test run to verify that it works.
Reason #8: Deck Belt Issues
The deck belt is another issue that could cause lawn mowers to stop working properly. The deck belt is essential for rotating the blades. If it fails, your mower could stall or give way to one side.
How to Fix
Deck belts can become loosen over time, which is a common problem. You can fix this problem by tightening the deck belt. You can adjust the tension of your drive belt or idler pulley depending on your model.
If the drive belt is worn out or old, it may be necessary to replace it.
Reason #9: Broken Or Dull Blade
A dull or damaged blade is another issue that could cause lawn mower problems. A damaged or dull blade can cause your lawn mower to stop working properly. If one blade is worn, it’s likely that the grass you mow will pile up on the other side of your mower.
How to Fix
One of the most common issues with lawnmowers is a dull or broken blade. This problem can be fixed by replacing the blade.
Are Zero-Turn Mowers Beneficial?
The blade speed of zero-turn mowers is faster, making them great for cutting grass and leaves. They mulch at a much faster rate than a riding mower.
Conclusion
If one side of your zero turn mower isn’t working, it won’t be a problem.
It is possible for your mower to become damaged from many reasons. Regular maintenance will help you prevent such problems. These machines are great and allow you to manage your lawn easily. However, it is important to keep them in good condition.
