Lawn mower rear end. 2012 Hydrostatic Lawn Tractor Recall

12 Hydrostatic Lawn Tractor Recall

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission – Recall Alert

Recall Date: March, 13, 2012

Recall Number:

Hydrostatic Lawn Tractors Recalled by Hydro-Gear Due to Crash Hazard (Recall Alert)

Recall Summary

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.

Name of Product: Lawn Tractors

Hazard: A drive gear in the lawn tractor’s hydrostatic transaxle can fail, posing a crash hazard to consumers.

Remedy:

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled lawn tractors and contact the toll-free Hotline for instructions on obtaining a repair from an authorized service provider.

Consumer Contact:

For additional information, please contact Cub Cadet toll-free at (888) 848-6038 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firms’ website at www.cubcadet.com. Consumers can also visit Hydro-Gear’s website at www.hydro-gear.com.

Tractor Idenification Photo and Sample DOM label:

(Located under seat)

Transaxle Idenification Photo and Sample Transaxle label:

Recall Details

Units: About 2,200

Description:

This recall involves Cub Cadet lawn tractors sold with Hydro-Gear model 618-0319 and 618-04270B transaxles. Lawn tractors included in this recall have dates of manufacture (DOM) ranging from January 2011 through March 2011. The DOM can be found on a label on the underside of the seat. Affected transaxles have serial numbers whose first four digits range between 0333 and 0348. Transaxle model and serial numbers are printed on a label on the transaxle.

Cub Cadet lawn tractors with the recalled transaxles are:

Incidents/Injuries:None reported.

Sold At: Lawn and Garden retailers nationwide from January 2011 through January 2012 for about 1900. 2800.

Manufacturer: Hydro-Gear Limited Partnership, of Sullivan, Ill.

Manufactured in: U.S.A.

Cub Cadet Tractor Identification Photo and Sample DOM Label:

Transaxle Identification Photo and Sample Transaxle Label:

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is still interested in receiving incident or injury reports that are either directly related to this product recall or involve a different hazard with the same product. Please tell us about your experience with the product on SaferProducts.gov.

About U.S. CPSC: The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death associated with the use of thousands of types of consumer products under the agency’s jurisdiction. Deaths, injuries, and property damage from consumer product incidents cost the nation more than 1 trillion annually. CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical or mechanical hazard. CPSC’s work to ensure the safety of consumer products. such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters and household chemicals – contributed to a decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 40 years.

Federal law bars any person from selling products subject to a publicly-announced voluntary recall by a manufacturer or a mandatory recall ordered by the Commission.

For more lifesaving information, follow us on. Instagram @USCPSC and @USCPSC or sign up to receive our e-mail alerts. To report a dangerous product or a product-related injury go online to www.SaferProducts.gov or call CPSC’s Hotline at 800-638-2772 or teletypewriter at 301-595-7054 for the hearing impaired.

CPSC Consumer Information Hotline

Contact us at this toll-free number if you have questions about a recall: 800-638-2772 (TTY 301-595-7054) Times: 8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. ET; Messages can be left anytime Call to get product safety and other agency information and to report unsafe products.

Media Contact

Please use the phone numbers below for all media requests. Phone: 301-504-7908 Spanish: 301-504-7800

Customer Service

We are experiencing high call volumes.

We are available Monday. Friday, 8:30 am. 5:00 pm EST. To speak with an agent, you might experience longer than normal hold times. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Helpful links.

Global Sites

If you experience any problems accessing this website, please call us at 1-877-428-2349 for assistance.

WARRANTY ADDENDUM. IMPORTANT: This addendum defines the start of the warranty period. The applicable Warranty Period will begin on the original date of purchase of the Product or on the date of delivery of the Product, whichever is later. Engine Disclaimer: The engine horsepower information is provided by the engine manufacturer to be used for comparison purposes only. See your local Cub Cadet Dealer for warranty details.Pricing Disclaimer: Posted price is in USD Dollars and is manufacturer’s suggested sale price. Models and pricing may vary by location. Taxes, freight, set-up and delivery not included. Optional equipment, accessories and attachments sold separately. See your retailer for details. Image Disclaimer: Products may vary from depicted model image in design, required attachments, safety features and non-functional appearance, and may not reflect dealer inventory or unit specifications. Specifications Disclaimer: Specifications subject to change without notice. Images may not reflect retailer inventory and/or unit specifications. Operator’s Manual Disclaimer: The operator’s manual posted is for general information and use. To ensure the download of the operator’s manual specific to your unit, we require a model and serial number. Speed Disclaimer: Actual vehicle speed varies based on load, use and environmental conditions. Battery Disclaimer: Battery and battery powered product performance varies with load, use and environmental conditions. Software Disclaimer: Software available on Company websites is provided on an as is basis without any warranty of any kind, either express or implied. The download and use of any software is done at the user’s own risk. Professional Products: Cub Cadet commercial products are intended for professional use. UTV: Cub Cadet Utility Vehicles (UTV) are intended for off-road use by adults only. Please see the operator’s manual and the warning labels posted on the vehicle itself for more details. Email disclaimer: Sign up to receive communication on services, products and special offers. You may unsubscribe at any time. Please refer to our Privacy Policy.

Common Bad Boy Mower Transaxle Problems and How to Fix Them!

One of the most common Bad Boy mower issues is the transaxle problem or failure. However, do you know what the Transaxle system does?

This system mainly transfers the engine power to the wheels and allows the mower to run move smoothly. But what causes this system to fail?

The most common reasons for Transaxle problems are:

• Improper maintenance
• Low or incorrect Trans fluid levels,
• Insufficient lubrication,
• Dirt or buildup debris inside the Transaxle system/assembly,
• Damaged or worn-out Transaxle components.

Keep reading the following article to discover the seven most common Bad Boy mower Transaxle problems and learn how to resolve them_

Signs You Have a Bad Boy Mower Transaxle Problem

Check out these four signs that indicate when something goes wrong with the Transaxle system_

• Oil or fluid leaking from the transaxle.
• Unusual excess noise or vibration coming from the mower while running.
• While mowing, you will notice difficulty operating the mower and bumpy rides.
• The mower will fail to deliver even cuts and might even start to damage the grass during mowing.

Common Bad Boy Mower Transaxle Problems How to Fix Them?

The best approach is to inspect each potential area first and perform the required service_

Leaking of Hydraulic Oil or Fluid

If you notice any sign of Hydraulic oil or fluid leaking on your Bad Boy mower, there must be something wrong with the Transaxle system.

Such a fluid leaking issue may arise due to a broken or worn seal or gasket.

The Solution

First, take the clutch and pulleys off to inspect the seal.

If it looks old or damaged, pry out the seal to take it off and replace it with a new seal kit.

Then, change or refill the Hydraulic fluid on your mower.

A defective Charge Pump or Hydraulic System

There are two main issues with the transaxle system:

One is the Hydraulic fluid leakage mentioned earlier, and another is a defective charge pump or damaged Hydraulic system.

The Solution:

Get access to your mower charging pump inside the transmission assembly (get directional help from your mower’s user manual).

Inspect the seals underneath the charging pump. If the seals are damaged, replace them.

But if the actual pump has failed, you need to replace the charge pump.

The best solution to deal with a failed Hydro system is to get professional help from experts.

Left Transaxle Lacks Torque

You might notice that the left transaxle on your Bad Boy seems to lack enough torque. It could be due to a stuck drive belt or bracket.

Even if the drive belt on your mower transmission becomes loose or the piston inside the belt does not make a proper connection with the plate, you might also notice a similar problem.

The Solution:

Get internal access to your mower’s drive belt and check whether the piston inside the belt has a good connection or not with the plate where it sits.

If the piston does not, lubricate the piston properly to reduce the friction between the two components or adjust the tension of your drive belt.

If the ground drive belt or transaxle belt in your mower has come loose or got stuck inside, the easiest solution is to replace it.

The following step-by-step drive belt replacement tutorial might help guide you on that:

Note the following tips to protect your mower from potential Transaxle issues:

• Regularly check the oil levels in your Bad Boy mower. Refill with fresh SAE 90 gear oil whenever the level looks in the margin or below the margin level.
• Do not forget to perform scheduled maintenance of your mower to keep all the parts components in a good state.
• Avoid overloading your mower or putting too much strain on it to prevent excessive wear on transaxle components.
• Keep an eye on the linkage rods and bushings for any early signs of wear or damage.
• Only use recommended lubricants for your mower. Always keep your internal transaxle components lubricated with that.

Frequently Asked Queries (FAQs)

What type of oil is used in a Bad Boy transaxle?

All Bad Boy engines use 10W-30 engine oil.

Is there a difference between gear oil and transaxle oil?

Yes. Gear oil is used in manual transmissions as a lubricant, while transaxle oil works as a lubricant for automatic transmissions.

Why is my Bad Boy mower pulling to one side?

Your Bad Boy might be dragging like that due to its underinflated wheels.

What causes my Bad Boy mower to not move?

It might occur due to a loose/ defective spark plug, dirty filter, or battery problems.

s:

Fix Your Hydrostatic Transmission Problems Fast

Combustion engines, like those found in most cars, transfer power to the vehicle’s axle, which turns the wheels. Hydrostatic transmissions found in most modern tractors and zero-turn mowers, work by transferring power from the engine to hydraulic pumps which use liquid pressure to move the wheels. There’s no need for gears, and changing speed is smooth and efficient.

With any transmission, things can go wrong. The first step is to read your Operator’s Manual. There are many different types of equipment with hydrostatic transmissions, and we can only offer general advice. Your tractor operator’s manual will have information specific to your make and model, and will offer helpful information about where to find filters and other parts that might require servicing are located on your tractor or lawn equipment.

Where to find more information:

Hydrostatic transmissions include mechanical parts such as a differential and a drive axle, plus rubber or metal hoses the liquid is pushed through. Failure of any mechanical component, a broken hose, or clogged filter will cause tractor hydrostatic transmission problems. But the most common issue will be the oil itself.

In the transmission section of your operator’s manual, you’ll find a section that covers oil viscosity. Here’s an example from a John Deere manual. Note that, while temperature affects viscosity, the right oil has enough range to operate in any reasonable weather.

Here are some basic troubleshooting tips to fix your hydrostatic transmission lawn tractor problem fast!

Zero-Turn Mowers: Purge Your Hydraulic Drive System

Zero turn hydrostatic transmission problems can start with air in the system, a condition known as cavitation. When the pump is full of air instead of oil, it can’t generate the pressure needed to provide power. This is pretty common in zero-turn mower transmissions. After your mower has been stored for the winter, it’s a good idea to purge the transmission before use. It’s also a good first step if your motor is sluggish or slow.

NOTE: If your mower or tractor has a transmission that must be removed for service, be sure to purge after it is serviced and before you use it.

• Park the mower on level ground, set the parking brake, and put the rear on jackstands.
• Make sure the oil reservoir is properly filled according to specs.
• Disengage the transmission (check your operators manual to see how this is done).
• Sit in the operators seat and start the engine.
• With the engine running, move throttle control to slow position. Position the motion control levers in neutral (N) and disengage clutch/brake pedal.
• Push motion control levers forward all the way and hold for five seconds.
• Pull motion control levers to full reverse position and hold for five seconds.
• Repeat steps 6 and 7 three times. This purges any air from the hydraulic transmission system.
• Put the control levers in neutral (N). Shut the engine off and set the parking brake.
• Check the oil and top off if necessary.
• Engage transmission.
• Remove from jackstands, start the engine, and disengage the brake.
• Move control levers forward and roll about 5 feet. Then slowly reverse about the same distance. Return the levers to neutral and repeat this steps three times.

You’re done! The air is purged from your system and your zero-turn mower is ready for action.

Check The System

If your system is purged and you still have a problem, it’s time to do a little basic troubleshooting. Start with a complete visual check of the hydraulic system.

• Check the oil level and add oil if needed.
• Inspect the hoses and connections for damage or signs of leaks.
• Clean pump cooling fins with a rag, brush, or compressed air, and check for damage.

Change Your Hydraulic and Steering Fluids

Sluggish operation is often due to old or overused fluids. If there are no signs of fluid leaks or damage, it may be time to change your hydraulic and steering fluids.

Hire An Expert Troubleshooter

If you need help troubleshooting your tractor’s hydraulic system, call your dealer. Their service department should be able to ask the right questions, give suggestions, and you can make an appointment for service if necessary.

Blairsville, GA: 706-745-2148

Some things are beyond DIY. When it’s time to call in an expert, don’t hesitate. Your tractor represents a significant investment in terms of both money and delay. It’s one of those farm equipment essentials you simply can’t do without. When it needs to be fixed fast and done right, call an expert!

Image source: Z915E ZTrak Zero-Turn mower with hydrostatic drive train, deere.com

The best riding mowers: Mow your lawn faster

Up your summer lawn care game with a riding mower that makes for a faster, more eco-friendly mowing experience.

Taylor Clemons is a tech writer and reviewer based near Cleveland, OH. After graduating from Tiffin University in 2011, they spent several years in lawn and garden manufacturing before working on their own (now defunct) game review site, Steam Shovel.

Taylor Clemons is a tech writer and reviewer based near Cleveland, OH. After graduating from Tiffin University in 2011, they spent several years in lawn and garden manufacturing before working on their own (now defunct) game review site, Steam Shovel.

Riding mowers are a popular mower choice for homeowners, especially if you have a big property to maintain every summer. They have cutting decks measuring from 42 to 72 inches, so you can make short work of everything from typical lawns to large properties, like sports complexes and golf courses.

Unlike their push mower counterparts, riding mowers have more features to consider in order to find the right fit for your yard. You can choose either a manual or hydrostatic transmission, so you can set and forget your speed or operate your mower like a car. You can even get riding mowers with cruise control or all-wheel drive for better traction.

While gas engines are far more common among riding mowers, there is a wide selection of battery-powered models if you’re looking for a more eco-friendly solution for lawn care. My pick for the best overall riding mower is the Troy-Bilt Super Bronco XP for its 24HP engine, 54-inch cutting deck, and ability to mow up to four acres with a full gas tank. You can keep reading below to find out more about the Troy-Bilt Super Bronco XP as well as our other top picks.

Troy-Bilt Super Bronco XP

Best riding mower overall

• 24HP engine
• 54-inch cutting deck
• Automatic transmission
• Attachments and accessories available

Troy-Bilt Super Bronco XP tech specs: Engine: 24HP Kohler | Cutting width: 54 inches | Transmission: Hydrostatic/Automatic | Max yard size: 4 acres

The Troy-Bilt Super Bronco XP riding mower is an excellent choice for a variety of lawns. It’s built with a 24HP Kohler engine and a 54-inch cutting deck to let you handle inclines and rough terrain or haul tools, mulch, and potting soil around your property.

The hydrostatic, automatic transmission makes operation similar to a typical car, so you can spend more time actually cutting your grass and less time learning how to drive your mower. With a 3-gallon tank, you’ll be able to mow up to 4 acres at a time.

Ryobi 80V electric riding lawn tractor

Best electric riding mower

• 2.5 acre max range
• Quick-charge batteries
• LCD heads-up display
• USB charging ports

Ryobi 80V electric lawn tractor tech specs: Engine: 80V brushless electric | Cutting width: 46 inches | Transmission: Hydrostatic/Automatic | Max yard size: 2.5 acres

Electric riding mowers have become more popular in recent years as homeowners and landscaping professionals look for ways to make lawn care more eco-friendly. The Ryobi 80V electric lawn tractor features a 46-inch cutting deck and enough power to let you mow up to 2.5 acres on a single charge, and you can recharge your mower batteries in as little as 2.5 hours.

This means you can take care of other tasks, like weeding or landscaping, while you’re waiting for your mower to recharge. An LCD screen gives you a heads-up display of run time, battery levels, and reminders to inspect and sharpen your mower blades. It even has two USB ports for charging your phone while you mow.

Toro Titan Max

Best zero-turn riding mower

• Mows up to 7 acres at once
• Highly maneuverable
• 10-gauge steel construction
• Tool-free air filters

Toro Titan Max tech specs: Engine: 26HP Kohler 7000 | Cutting width: 60 inches | Transmission: Dual hydrostatic/automatic | Max yard size: 7 acres

Zero-turn riding mowers are popular with homeowners who have larger properties or lots of obstacles like trees or specialized landscaping. The Toro Titan Max’s exceptional maneuverability and larger cutting decks make quick work of yards up to 7 acres in size, while the 26HP Kohler 7000 engine uses a dual hydrostatic drive for smooth, intuitive operation.

Toro also made regular maintenance a bit more streamlined with tool-free air filters. The deck and mower body are made from tough, 10-gauge steel to stand up to dings, rocks, run-ins, and anything else your lawn can throw at it.

Cub Cadet CC30E

Best compact riding mower

• Battery-powered
• Great for yards up to 1 acre
• Compact design great for small storage areas and narrow spaces
• Push-button cruise control

Cub Cadet CC30E tech specs: Engine: 56V electric | Cutting width: 30 inches | Transmission: Hydrostatic/Automatic | Max yard size: 1 acre

Compact riding mowers like the Cub Caded CC30E are great for suburban lawns on the smaller side. The CC30E features a smaller design that is perfect for storing in multi-use sheds and garages or maneuvering through gates and narrow spaces. The 30-inch cutting deck and 56V battery let you mow up to 1 acre (or one hour) at once.

It uses a hydrostatic drive for smooth, intuitive driving while the 18-inch turning radius lets you easily mow around trees and other obstacles. It even features a push-button cruise control, so you can set-and-forget your forward speed and concentrate on mowing around obstacles, as well as staying aware of your surroundings.

DeWALT Z160 Commercial

Best riding mower for large properties

• Mow up to 10 acres
• 5.5 gallon gas tank
• Dual hydrostatic drive
• Great for hills and inclines

DeWALT Z160 Commercial tech specs: Engine: 24HP Kawasaki V-Twin | Cutting width: 60 inches | Transmission: Dual hydrostatic/automatic | Max yard size: 10 acres

The DeWALT Z160 Commercial zero-turn riding mower is designed from the ground up to handle large properties. The 60-inch cutting deck and 24HP Kawasaki V-Twin engine let you mow up to 10 acres at once, making it an almost perfect choice for rural properties or landscaping professionals. The dual hydrostatic drive makes operation smoother, though the twin-stick steering does take some getting used to.

With 22-inch rear wheels, you can easily take on inclines and rolling hills that may be on your property. A 5.5-gallon fuel tank means you’ll spend more time actually mowing and less time refueling. And if you opt for the bagger attachment, you’ll be able to gather up to 11 bushels of clippings before you need to empty.

What is the best riding mower?

I chose the Troy-Bilt Super Bronco XP as the best riding mower you can buy. It features a 54-inch cutting deck and 3-gallon fuel tank, letting you mow up to 4 acres in a single go. The 24 horsepower engine also lets you take on steeper inclines and rough terrain or haul tools and gardening supplies around your property. The hydrostatic drive makes operation similar to a typical car, while an LED display gives you accurate usage hours for streamlined maintenance.

Best riding mower

Cutting width

Transmission type

Ryobi 80V electric riding lawn tractor

Which is the right riding mower for you?

Other than your budget, there are a lot of features and scenarios you have to consider while shopping for a new riding mower. The size of your yard will determine how wide the cutting deck should be, though either a 42 or 46-inch version will be more than enough for most yards.

You can choose either a manual or hydrostatic transmission. A manual model lets you set and forget your speed so you can FOCUS, while hydrostatic models operate more like cars, going faster the harder you press the pedal. This makes them more intuitive to operate but also more expensive.

Zero-turn mowers are designed for mowing in oddly-shaped areas or around lots of obstacles like trees, lamp posts, and lawn ornaments. They’re called zero-turn because they have a zero-inch turn radius; you pivot around either rear wheel for ultra-tight turning.

Buy this best riding mower.

If you need.

A well-rounded riding mower. The 54-inch cutting deck and 24HP engine let you mow up to 4 acres at a time.

Ryobi 80V electric riding lawn tractor

An all-electric riding mower. The electric engine requires less maintenance than gas models, making your lawn-care routine more eco-friendly.

An excellent zero-turn riding mower. Precision maneuvering lets you mow around trees, landscaping, and other obstacles with ease.

A compact riding mower. The 30-inch deck and smaller build make this riding mower perfect for smaller suburban lawns.

A riding mower that can handle larger properties. This commercial-grade, zero-turn riding mower lets you cut up to 10 acres at once.

How did we choose these riding mowers?

I used to work for MTD Products (now owned by BlackDecker), which assembles a variety of lawn mowers, snow blowers, and other powered lawn equipment. Using the expertise and knowledge I gained during my time there, I looked for riding mowers with these qualities:

• Motor size: You’ll want a riding mower with at least a 10HP engine to give you enough power to handle minor inclines and lawns up to half an acre. Larger riding mowers like the John Deere Z530M have more powerful engines, often topping out over 20HP to let you tackle rough terrain and even haul equipment.
• Cutting width: Many riding mowers have either a 42 or 46-inch cutting deck, which is great for lawns between.5 and 1.5 acres. However, if you have a large, multi-acre property, you’ll want to choose a larger cutting deck. Many brands have options between 50 and 72-inch cutting decks.
• Transmission type: The less expensive riding mowers will have either a 6 or 7-speed manual transmission. This means you will use a dedicated lever to set your engine’s forward and reverse speeds, with a single brake pedal for stop control. The more expensive models feature a hydrostatic drive, which operates in a similar way to an automatic transmission in a typical car or truck.
• Accessories: Lawn care goes beyond regular mowing. I chose riding mowers that have the ability to hitch small trailers or wagons for hauling tools, mulch, or potting soil. I also chose mowers from brands that make after-market add-ons, like rear bagging units for collecting grass clippings, mulching kits for re-feeding lawns, and snow plows for year-round use.

How do you decide which riding mower to buy?

Assuming you have a budget in mind, the first thing you need to do is find out how big your lawn is. You can either find your lot size on your memorandum deeds if you’ve bought your house, or you can check your city’s website to see if you can request lot measurements if you’re renting. If your lot measures about an acre, you’ll be able to use a 30 or 42-inch cutting deck without any issues. For lawns up to two acres, a 42 or 46-inch deck is ideal. And if your lot is over two acres, you can get a mower with up to a 72-inch cutting deck to handle larger areas.

The transmission type is also important. Many newer models have what is known as a hydrostatic drive. This means that they operate similarly to how a car drives: You push the pedal and it moves forward or backward. And the harder you push, the faster you go. This makes it easier to learn how to drive, but that also makes the mower more expensive. stripped-back models have variable speed manual transmissions, which allow you to set and forget your speed so you can FOCUS on paying attention to obstacles and people who may be nearby.

And finally, you’ll want to consider the power source for your new riding mower. Gasoline engines are far more common, but there is now a wider variety of battery-powered models to choose from. The perks of a gas engine are that you’ll get near-infinite run times (as long as you have enough fuel to keep the engine going) and a bit more power for handling steep inclines and rough terrain. The downsides are dealing with exhaust emissions and maintenance that can be a time and money sink. Electric models don’t need engine maintenance, so you save a bit of money in the long run. But they usually have a maximum run time of about an hour, which means that you may have to plan your mowing over several days if you have a larger yard.

How big of a yard do I need for a riding mower?

Riding mowers are best suited for yards measuring one acre or larger. A model with a 42-inch cutting deck is great for mowing up to two acres, so if you have more land than that, you’ll want to spring for a 46, 54, 60, or 72-inch cutting deck.

If you’re right on the threshold, you can get what’s known as a mini rider. They usually have compact bodies for easier storage and 30-inch cutting decks to make short work of lawns that are just a touch too large for a push mower.

How long should a riding mower last?

No matter if you choose a gas or battery-powered riding mower, proper maintenance is key to extending the life of your mower. For gas engines, you should change the oil and filters, clean the spark plugs, and sharpen the blades before you mow for the first time in the spring. And you should use fuel treatments like STA-BIL to prevent gas in the tank or extra jerry cans from going bad from moisture contamination. This prevents buildup of gunk that can ruin your engine, improves engine performance, and gives you a cleaner cut for a healthier lawn.

Electric mowers don’t need engine maintenance, but you should perform thorough inspections at the start of mowing season to check for battery damage, corrosion on battery contacts, damage to the battery housing, and also to sharpen the blades. If you do regular maintenance, not only will you save money by avoiding big repairs from worn-out parts, but you can also expect your riding mower to last 10 years or more.- which is great news, since they can be an expensive investment.

What is the cheapest riding mower?

Unfortunately, riding mowers aren’t ever really what we consider budget-friendly. However, there are models like the Murray MT100 that retail for less than 2000 without sacrificing power or cutting width.

Are there alternative riding mowers worth considering?

Whether you’re shopping at a big-name DIY store like Lowe’s, a local hardware store, or an authorized brand dealer, there are tons of options for a new riding mower. You can choose either gas or battery-powered models, cutting deck widths from as small as 30 inches to as wide as six feet.

Here’s a short list of other riding mowers I thought were great choices:

John Deere Z530M

The John Deere Z530M features a 60-inch cutting deck for making quick work of large properties. Exceptional maneuverability lets you mow around trees, lawn decor, and other obstacles with ease.

Husqvarna YTH1942

The Husqvarna YTH1942 features an updated, 19 horsepower engine and 42-inch cutting deck to take on inclines and haul dirt, mulch, and gardening equipment.

Murray MT100

For under 2000, you’ll get a 13.5 horsepower engine, a 42-inch cutting deck, and a 6-speed manual transmission with the Murray MT100.

Which Riding Mower Transmission is Right for You?

In this day and age, buyers have more options than ever before when shopping for a riding lawn mower transmission. While it is true that there are technically several different varieties on the market, three categories are most common: manual, automatic, and hydrostatic. The exact type that you choose depends on the layout of your lawn, the frequency with which you mow, and your proficiency behind the wheel of the riding lawn mower. Below, we discuss the characteristics associated with each variety, allowing you to make a well-reasoned decision for which transmission is best for you.

Which Transmission is Best for Your Lawn?

Manual Transmission

Manual transmission is the most basic of the transmission categories. With a manual riding mower, you will need to conduct all of your gear shifting yourself. As a result, manual riding mowers are problematic for those who need to conduct substantial amounts of turning. If your lawn layout is filled with sharp turns (if you have trees, for example) or a steep gradient, you may find it necessary to look at an automatic or hydrostatic transmission. Despite its limitations, there are many lawn owners for whom it makes great sense to go with a manual mower. Not only are they cheaper by a significant margin (generally hundreds of dollars), but they work just fine for anyone with a wide lawn layout that requires little gear shifting.

Automatic Transmission

With automatic transmission, the driver is not tasked with shifting gears. This makes automatic riding mowers much easier for those with relatively little mowing experience. An advantage of automatic and hydrostatic mowers is that many of them come with optional cruise control, allowing the driving to travel in one speed for long stretches. Because automatic riding mowers require no gear shifting, they are much easier for switching speeds, and the added convenience makes it so that automatic mowers generally save quite a bit of time compared to manual mowers.

Hydrostatic Transmission

The most high-powered transmission is hydrostatic. With a hydrostatic mower, the driver does not need to use the pedal to shift, and there is also no belt. Instead, fluids are responsible for shifting power from the engine to the wheels, making for an exceptionally smooth ride and lengthier transmission duration. The added durability comes at a cost, though, as hydrostatic mowers are the most expensive. They are also less efficient and require more fuel and maintenance, so buyers will have to weigh the superior performance against the high cost required to purchase and maintain hydrostatic mowers.

While manual, automatic, and hydrostatic transmissions are most common, buyers should also look into electric mowers, which are more environmentally friendly and still offer strong performance. Whichever transmission variety you choose, pay close attention to the information discussed in this post, as the transmission you choose has a major impact on the mowing process.