How To Turn On A Gasoline Lawn Mower

Petrol self-propelled lawn mower make work easier on the site How to choose a petrol self-propelled lawn mower for a suburban area. In the article we will compare different brands and tell you which one is better. Professional lawn mower work

How is a self-propelled lawn mower different from a conventional

No matter how well-groomed the site is, its natural or artificial landscape will still never be completely flat, with the exception of concrete-filled areas. As a consequence, any wheeled device designed for mowing grass must have, in addition to productivity, at least also maneuverability. However, even in this case, the usual carriage version of the mower on the broken terrain is quite difficult to control, especially with a significant mass. Therefore, it is much more convenient to choose a trimmer and a manual gasoline or electric scythe, or, if productivity is needed, a self-propelled mower.

The main difference between a self-propelled unit and a bogie unit is that the drive from the motor is connected not only to the knives, but is also separately conducted to the wheel pair, front or rear. Thus, the mower begins to move itself when starting, which greatly simplifies the work, since you do not need to make efforts to push the unit, as is the case with the simplest trolley models. Devices with a wide range of functions have a speed changeover, knife speed adjustment. A self-propelled gasoline mower with a limited set of functions moves at a predetermined speed, which is far from always convenient, especially for women and children.

The main criteria for choosing a self-propelled mower

Like any other motorized units, wheel-driven mowers differ in power supply and, accordingly, in the type of engine. They are gasoline and electric. The latter are also divided into two groups, namely wired and battery models. Mowers operating from the mains are of little interest to us now, so we just note that wired options work longer than battery ones, but they are less mobile due to the cable and, of course, are not autonomous, they need an outlet. Gasoline engines can be two- or four-stroke, the former have higher power and, as a result, noise, and the latter are distinguished by their reliability and fuel economy.

Like other mowers, self-propelled mowers can be large, medium or small, while compactness is far from an advantage, since the smaller the unit, the lower its power. It is logical that in tall grass with stiff stems a small and even very maneuverable mower will get stuck, not coping with the load. The optimal solution in terms of price and efficiency is a unit with average parameters in terms of dimensions and motor power, it is suitable both for a small summer cottage, and for a large-scale farm. The garden helpers with the most horsepower in the engine are usually very expensive and consume a lot of fuel, which can only be justified on large farmlands.

Self-propelled gasoline lawn mower

Before choosing a gasoline lawn mower, especially a self-propelled one, it is important to consider the material from which the casing is made. For this purpose, metal and plastic are used, which determines the durability of the device. However, each type of housing, be it steel or polymer, has disadvantages. So, the plastic case will lighten the unit, but at the same time it will become its vulnerable part due to its low resistance to shock. The metal casing is very durable, but will make a gasoline lawnmower quite heavier, which already has a massive engine along with the fuel tank and the fuel itself. Many people choose plastic, forgetting that a self-propelled mower does not need muscular strength to move.

And finally, the units have different types of knives. Rotary ones with a shaft with a knife with two blades (like a two-blade helicopter propeller) are quite popular. This is the simplest option to deal with almost any type of weed. Another type is cylindrical, with a shaft equipped with several rows of short blades, more suitable for cutting grass. There are also differences in the width of the mowing, the working sector of the knives can be narrow, within 25-30 centimeters, and quite wide, from 40 or more. The optimal strip is considered to be 40 centimeters wide.

Self-propelled gasoline rotary mower

Varieties of self-propelled mowers and their features

Although above we drew a line between units driven by a motor on wheels and trolley models that need to be pushed by the operator, self-propelled mowers still differ little from the latter, at least externally. But there are models that look and work completely different Raiders, which are more like a mini tractor. On such devices, the operator can freely move around the site, regardless of the unevenness of the terrain, and operate the knives in relatively comfortable conditions. It is necessary to distinguish between raiders and conventional cart self-propelled mowers, which have to be operated on the go.

To the lawn raider

Of course, a raider is practically useless at the dacha, so choosing it for a small decorative lawn is far from the best solution. The first thing to think about is the extremely high cost. Some models are much more expensive than mini tractors, even though the latter are much more functional. The second determining factor is the turning radius, which is too large for a small area for a raider. And, of course, there are some difficulties in mastering the controls for those who have never encountered anything more difficult than a trimmer before. Therefore, for a summer residence, it is better to choose a cart version, which is much more maneuverable and cheaper.

Mini lawn tractor

Much more interesting is a self-propelled robotic lawnmower that is smart enough to handle unattended lawn mowing. It costs, of course, also not cheap, but it completely eliminates the need to spend time mowing the grass. These agile and nimble robots have many sensors that determine both the height of vegetation in the area allocated to them for work, and the boundaries set using a special cord, infrared or laser beams. An automatic lawn mower is more often electric, but a gasoline mower can also be purchased, however, the former has more advantages, it finds a base for recharging itself. You can also control such units using the remote control.

The petrol powered lawn mower makes field work easier

A wheel-driven mower compares favorably with one that has to be pushed by hand in that much less effort is spent on mowing the lawn. Let’s figure out how to choose a self-propelled gun.

A small overview of famous models of lawn mowers

For Makita petrol lawn mower

And finally, consider the Husqvarna brand, which is quite often purchased by novice summer residents. It causes more dissatisfaction than previous companies, since it is very difficult to change the oil in a gasoline lawn mower of almost any model. The fact is that the plug for many lines is located under the engine, and you have to remove it to open the oil reservoir. This picture is observed in the Husqvarna J 55S 9612100-18 models, as well as R 145 SV 9614101-31, which is already an indicator.

Husqvarna petrol lawn mower

How to choose a petrol lawn mower (trimmer)?

When we have to choose a gasoline lawn mower (trimmer) for our site, then first of all we pay attention to such parameters as maneuverability and lightness. There are a great many lawn mowers today, but it is gasoline trimmers that are in greatest demand, thanks to several advantages over analogues, for example, electric mowers. They are autonomous and powerful and require only a certain level of fuel to operate.

Selection features

So, let’s figure it out all the same, how to choose a gasoline lawn mower, what should you pay attention to when buying?

The main features of this type of device:

Do not require connection to power supplies;
A short period of time for processing a large area;
Intended for a plot of more than 3 acres;
Work with ease even on an area with difficult soil relief;
Have high power;
Can not only mow lawns, but also mow.

All gasoline mowers can be divided into several types depending on their adaptability to a particular area, more precisely, to its landscape, the size and type of grass planted on it.

So, household lawn mowers are the best suited for small areas up to eight acres, their power reaches five horsepower, the maximum resource is about 500 hours.

At the same time, you need to know that, as a rule, companies that produce this kind of equipment do not manufacture engines themselves, but install ready-made ones, such as Tecumseh, Subaru, Briggs Stratton. The only exception is the Honda brand.

Lawn mowers also differ in such parameters as the width of the cut grass and the equipment with the functions of collecting grass and its discharge. The first parameter can be:

From 42 to 48 centimeters, such devices process small areas;

The second parameter may (or may not) include the ability to collect the cut grass in special containers, grass collectors; ejecting it (usually from the side); mulching. All these functions are mandatory only in combination devices.

Choosing a petrol-powered manual (trimmer) or self-propelled lawn mower

Is determined by several more aspects:

In particular, different models also differ in the volumes and types of containers of the collectors.
So, fabric containers are very spacious, therefore they are suitable for processing large areas, but they are difficult to wash.
The plastic grass catcher, on the other hand, is easy to clean or wash, but if it is installed on a mower that collects more than 50 liters, filling can be difficult.
The most optimal version of the grass catcher can be called the so-called combined type, where the side surfaces are made of fabric, and the bottom (or top) is made of plastic. This type is usually installed on mowers with a large filling capacity, which are of the premium class.

Directly about work

Now a few words about the process of lawn mowers, more precisely, about some of their features in this regard.

Depending on how the height of the mowed grass is adjusted for each of the devices, they can be divided into several types:

Screw-adjustable lawn mowers are the cheapest; the specified type of adjustment is presented in the form of several holes of different height, where the axle with wheels is rearranged to change the height of the bevel;

Safety when working with a lawn mower

All lawn mowers also move differently due to the difference in drives. When thinking about how to choose a self-propelled gasoline lawnmower, you need to pay special attention to this aspect:

If the machine is front-wheel drive it will be very manoeuvrable, but the front wheels may slip when filling the cutter box as the center of gravity is then shifted back.
Rear-wheel drive is more convenient, here the main load falls on the rear wheels.

About safety

When purchasing a lawn mower, it is important to remember that in inept hands it can become a dangerous device, despite its seeming harmlessness. After all, gasoline is an explosive substance, the mower knife rotates quickly enough, and from under it any objects can fly apart. Therefore, you should carefully read the instructions supplied with the device, and follow the safety rules strictly. In addition, do not forget about the timely maintenance of the mower, changing the oil, candles, observe the rules of personal safety when working on the site.

CHAMPION LM4627

A domestically produced lawn mower allows mulching the grass, turning it into fertilizer and throwing it out through the side opening directly onto the ground. In addition, a combined grass catcher is installed here with the ability to monitor the amount of cut vegetation. The bag itself is designed for 60 liters of mowing. The device is equipped with a 3.5 hp four-stroke engine. With a volume of 139 cm 3. Even thick grass passes with a bang, therefore it is suitable for both soft lawns and hard weeds.

7-step mowing height adjustment allows you to set the desired level in the range from 25 to 75 mm. A 1 liter fuel tank is sufficient for approximately 30 to 40 minutes of mowing. The oil sump here has a volume of 0.6 liters. The handle here can be adjusted in height for yourself so as not to bend over during operation and not to hold it too high. The motor is protected by a metal casing. For the price, this is a great mulching device. We also note that there will be no problems with the components, since they are sold throughout Russia.

Huter GLM-5.0S

The German lawn mower is powered by a 5 hp single-cylinder four-stroke engine. A 1.5 liter fuel tank is enough for about 40 minutes of work or for mowing 10 acres of low grass. In this model, the 50 liter rigid grass catcher is the average for self-propelled devices. Note that the older version of the Huter GLM-5.0ST has a soft rag grass catcher, which is 10 liters larger. If you want the maximum size of the grass catcher, then go for the older model (the price difference is small).

The device mows grass in height within the range of 25 to 75 mm and at the same time passes a strip of width 460 mm. The cutting height is adjusted using a 5-position adjuster. The body of the device is almost entirely made of metal, with the exception of the side protection of the motor. There is also a motor brake system that shuts off the motor immediately after the power is turned off, so that the cutting blade stops rotating immediately.

The best gasoline lawn mowers of 2019

In this rating you will see the best in price / quality ratio gasoline self-propelled models with and without mulching function.

With or without mulching?

Mulching is the grinding of cut grass in order to further use it as fertilizer. The device in the process of work processes the cut grass and gently scatters the mulch behind (or to the side) of itself. Thanks to this, the soil receives natural fertilization, and with it useful substances. However, the mulch will remain on the surface of the ground after mowing, so if you want to get a clean lawn, then you should take a model without this function.

Note that devices with a mulching function are somewhat more expensive than lawn mowers without it, so you should only buy them if you are going to do mulch often. Mulching devices are also included in our ranking of gasoline lawn mowers.

Bagging herbs or throwing them on the ground?

If you are not going to leave cut grass on the lawn, then you will need a grass catcher, which is equipped with a gasoline lawnmower. The best models usually have both side discharge and the ability to connect a grass catcher. Most often, a bag of a certain volume acts as such a collector, into which the cut grass flies out. Grass bag devices are usually rear discharge. Note that small bags will need to be emptied more often, but are light in weight. A large bag will allow you to go through the entire section, but it will be very heavy and you may have to carry it together. Choose the best one for yourself.

Some models, in addition to the grass catcher, can be equipped with a side discharge (left or right), through which the cut vegetation in transit goes directly to the ground. This is convenient when you need to cut grass quickly without emptying the grass catcher constantly. If you plan to mow weeds and mulch them immediately, then you will need a self-propelled gasoline lawn mower with side discharge (rating). The best side discharge models in our ranking.

How to choose a gasoline lawn mower and forget about wires

Self-propelled lawn mowers allow you to mow lawns and weeds evenly and accurately. Which model to choose: with or without mulching? The rating of the best models of both types in our article.

Gas-powered lawn mowers allow you to cut grass where there is no power outlet nearby, eliminate the need to lug around a power cord, and are in most cases more powerful than electric units. There are self-propelled models that allow you to additionally mulch the grass and fertilize the soil with it, or throw the cut grass into a bag. There are also those that allow you to automatically adjust the mowing height and turn in place 360 degrees thanks to the piano wheels. We have already written about how to choose a trimmer for a summer residence. In the same article, you will see the rating of gasoline self-propelled lawn mowers 2019.

Mower selection criteria

Before the final choice, you should find out some facts about the site for which the purchase is made, and about the mower itself:

Grass characteristics: You can use a lower power for mowing lawn grass than for mowing field grass and bushes.
Lawn slope: A wheeled unit is suitable for an area with a slight slope, but on a lawn with a large slope it is better to use a petrol trimmer.
Plot size: The larger the area, the more powerful the mower should be. The same applies to the volume of the fuel tank and the grass catcher.

Ideal model specifications

According to the power source, grass clippers are divided into electric, petrol and diesel. Gasoline models are the most popular on the market due to the maximum set of advantages in comparison with analogues. They are divided into self-propelled and non-self-propelled.

One of the main advantages of a gasoline unit is the ability to work for a long time and handle large areas. This is beyond the power of electric models.

You can read here on how to choose a self-propelled electric lawn mower for your garden.

Gasoline-powered appliances are characterized by high power. You can choose a lawn mower with two-stroke or four-stroke engine. Cycle is the movement of the working piston in one direction.

For two-stroke models, this movement is down or up. At this time, compression and expansion occurs. At the same time, fuel is injected and exhaust gases are discharged.

Four-stroke models use a separate measure for each of these actions. The main differences are expressed in the fact that two-stroke engines have a liter and specific power more than four-stroke engines. Wherein the fuel consumption of the second option is more economical up to 30%.

In addition, such a design will reduce the noise level from the device, improve environmental friendliness and extend the life of the device. Two-stroke models are much easier to maintain due to their simple design.

The engine on the mower can be located at the front or rear. The rear engine position will provide the device with greater maneuverability.

Self-propelled mower means that there is a drive on the wheels and the operator only needs to direct the machine in the right direction to achieve the result. These models are usually equipped with a gearbox that allows you to control the driving speed.

If the device is not self-propelled, then you need to make some effort to move it around the site. In this case, the cutting mechanism is powered by the engine. The advantage of such a mower is that all the motor power is spent on the main task of cutting grass. It is better to purchase such a device for small areas.

If you take a closer look at how to choose a self-propelled gasoline lawn mower, you can determine that they are divided into rear-wheel drive and front-wheel drive. For areas with a flat surface and lack of pronounced relief, rear-wheel drive mowers are perfect.

Front-wheel drive is more maneuverable. Therefore, they are used in areas with a lot of interference and unevenness.

Manufacturers use fuel tanks of various sizes for their products. When choosing this indicator, you should also take into account fuel consumption. Then it will be possible to pick up exactly the device that can process the customer’s site without refueling.

The easiest way is to use mowers with an automatic start system. It is enough to press the button, and the engine is started, and the device is ready to work.

Mowing width depends on the size of the mower. The wider it is, the faster you can process the entire area. Such a machine is deprived of the ability to cut grass in narrow places, on paths between flower beds and in aisles.

Therefore, it is worth choosing a wide model if the site is flat, without such obstacles. A mower with a medium cutting width will be universal.

A lawn mower equipped with sharp blades will provide the best view of your lawn. This machine will neatly trim the plants, leaving the lawn green and tidy.

After such treatment, the lawn may turn yellow and the lawn will lose its fresh appearance.

How to choose a gasoline lawn mower: criteria, brands, prices

A good way to simplify work on a plot of land is to use garden equipment. Hand tools have already exhausted their capabilities, and a lot of multifunctional devices are being produced for owners of gardens and vegetable gardens.

In maintaining a well-groomed appearance of any plot of land provided for a lawn, it will help lawn mower. There are several factors to consider to get the right machine.

User comfort

For the convenience of work, it is better to choose a lawn mower model equipped with soft grips. This feature greatly reduces stress on the hands by minimizing vibration.

Using such a device, you can not feel fatigue in your hands for a long time.

Manufacturers use different systems to adjust the cutting height. It is better to choose a device with central adjustment. This saves the operator from having to adjust each wheel separately.

The handle of such a system is usually easily accessible on the panel.

Noise reduction systems, which are equipped with many models, will also allow you to work in a larger room and not annoy others with loud sounds.

The additional function of a garden vacuum cleaner is inherent in many types of lawn mowers, thanks to the special design of the cutting knives and the deck.

The rapid movement of the knives creates a powerful stream of air that lifts cut grass, small twigs and fallen leaves from the lawn into the collector.

Models with large rear wheels have improved cross-country ability. This feature allows them to overcome small obstacles on the way. It is better if these wheels are made on the basis of ball bearings. This design is the most durable, and its course is smooth and soft.

When the operator releases the throttle grip, the engine stops immediately. This will prevent injury or damage to the device in an emergency.

Disposal of clipped grass

Many modern models combine several uses for cut grass. The simplest is dumping waste directly onto the lawn. This is done backward or sideways. This procedure allows you to mow the entire lawn without stopping.

To get a neat lawn, the waste will have to be removed with a hand tool.

The second option is grass catcher application. It is made from plastic, soft durable nylon, or a combination of soft and hard materials.

It is more practical to use a plastic container. It can be easily drained and cleaned with a water jet from a hose.

Third option using the mulching function. The process consists in the use of additional equipment provided with the lawn mower.

By installing a plug in the vent hole, you can use the grass as a natural fertilizer.

Mulching knives will grind the cuttings to a state of dust and bring them into the soil right in the direction of travel. This procedure will heal your lawn in a natural way, without the use of chemical fertilizers.

In combination with mulching, it is better to use aerators and scarifiers. In this way, you can achieve the best nutrition for the roots of the plants and in the future get an ideal green lawn.

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