Lawn mower steering upgrade. Lawn mower steering upgrade

Lawn mower steering upgrade

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Over time, your John Deere lawn tractor may become difficult to steer. This may be a result of a bolt that has come loose, or bushings that have become worn, preventing the gear engagement required for easy steering. Whether your steering is too loose or too tight, it can be fixed by identifying the problem area and replacing the right parts.

Sector gear steering is the style of steering control that is the most common on John Deere Lawn Tractors in the L Series, 100 Series, LA100 Series, D100 Series, Sabre and Scotts models.

The steering sector gear is matched to the pinion gear at the end of the steer wheel’s shaft. By turning the steering wheel, the pinion gear at the end allows you to turn the wheels from left to right by draft links attached to both sides of the half moon shaped sector gear.

Why is this happening? The two main steering gears above are held in positions by the combinations of the sector plate and bushings. Over time, the bushings that hold the pinion gear in place begin to wear, once this occurs there is no longer a perfect match between the two gears. This mismatch causes excessive frictions and the teeth begin to wear. This wear is noticed at play in the steering.

What do I do?

Use the chart below to find replacement parts for your lawn tractor.

Fort Wayne, IN 46818 (MAP) Phone: 844-756-6461 Hours: M-F 9:00AM-5:00PM Sat: Closed (Subject to Change)

Upgrading Your Home Lawn Mower

Taking care of a home lawn can be a point of pride for many a homeowner, and it’s easy to understand why. There’s a lot of work that goes into creating that pristine green from week to week. For those with larger lawns, this can seem impossible. If you’re spending more than an hour or so on your lawn every week, then it’s time to consider a time-saving upgrade to your push or walk-behind mower. Not only does that old mower take a lot of time to get everything done, it also leaves less-than-ideal results when working larger lawns. Keeping a straight line on that suburban lawn is easy compared to a veritable field of grass.

Here at Scott’s Power Equipment, we want our customers to have the best when it comes to their home lawn mower, whether that’s an affordable walk-behind or a powerful zero-turn mower. We’ve put together this quick guide with some of the reasons to go with one mower over another depending on your property and mowing needs. Read on for more information or head into one of our locations in Bridgeton, Arnold, and Wentzville, Missouri, as well as O’Fallon, Illinois.

Zero-Turn Mowers

You’d be surprised what two control levers, a wide cutting deck, and an effective turn radius of zero can do for your lawn. We’re talking zero-turn mowers! These riding mowers provide professional cuts every time. All you have to do is ride straight down your lawn and turn for another pass. You won’t miss any edges because you’ve turned exactly onto a perfect pass thanks to the zero-turn system. Zero-turn mowers are also fast, often with 5-8 mph cutting speeds, and the fastest models can turn that up to 13 mph. Be aware that zero-turn mowers aren’t brush clearing machines. If you’ve got grass above six inches, you’ll need something more specialized. Zero-turn mowers are best deployed on lawns and grass that sees regularly maintenance. Although zero-turn mowers are fast and powerful, easily able to maneuver around obstacles in a yard, they can’t avoid what you can’t see hidden beneath grass that’s been left to grow for too long.

Lawn Tractors

The noble lawn tractor is a standard solution to lawns and gardens too large for lesser equipment. You’ll find mowing takes far less time and isn’t the same fatiguing work while riding on a lawn tractor. They plod along in straight lines and don’t turn anywhere close to zero, but they make up for it in affordable and reliable results. Lawn tractors also offer easy controls, with just a familiar steering wheel, and added yard utility in the form of towing power. Like zero-turn mowers, a lawn tractor isn’t going to be able to handle brush or overgrown grass.

Pull Mowers

For real mowing work, you can pick up a pull mower and slap it on the back of a tractor or other tow vehicle. These mowers are certainly equipped to deal with overgrown grass, so they’re the alternative when you need something more powerful than a lawn tractor or zero-turn mower. Pull mowers usually have a set of spinning blades powered by PTO or an independent engine on the mowing deck. Speed and maneuverability are dependant on your tow vehicle, but generally you’re not aiming to save time in terms of quick passes and more in the ability to easily clear large areas of overgrown grass. here vary, but if you have a lot of property or a lot of lawn to mow and already have a suitable tow vehicle this might be your best option.

Mulching vs. Collection

You have two options when it comes to what to do with lawn clippings. Either you can collect and dispose of the clippings, or you can employ a mulcher to further cut up clippings to be deposited back on the lawn. Professional landscapers generally go for clipping collection systems so as to provide the most clean-looking cut possible. These manicured lawns are the envy of many a sportsman and lounging kid alike. This is great for landscaping that has its own irrigation systems, but if you’re not interested in a clean surface, then a mulching blade might be a better option. Mulching blades will shred clippings and put them back down while you continue mowing. This insulates turf from heat and sunlight while also getting composted back into the lawn, ensuring the recycling of important nutrients.

If you’re after professional quality in your home lawn, you’ll need professional equipment. That doesn’t mean breaking the bank, as there are affordable options, as well as plenty of room for stretching your mower muscles. When you’re ready to step up your lawn care game, head into Scott’s Power Equipment at one of our locations in Bridgeton, Arnold, and Wentzville, Missouri, as well as O’Fallon, Illinois. Come in today and let our team of pros answer all your questions and show you the true meaning of customer satisfaction.

What is the Best Zero Turn Mower with a Steering Wheel? (2023)

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Steering wheel-operated zero-turn mowers aren’t new, but they’re a huge time-saver when tackling a large lawn. But if you purchased the wrong model, it can break down in the middle of your task and cost you money for repairs.

To help you get the most out of your money, our lawn care experts have tested and evaluated the best zero-turn mowers with a steering wheel.

Reviews of the Top Zero Turn Mowers Equipped With a Steering Wheel

Cub Cadet Ultima ZTS2

When mowing in a straight line on inclines and declines of up to 20 degrees, the Ultima ZTS2’s Synchro-SteerTM technology comes into its own. It has high-performance power and quiet operation, owing to its 25 HP/725cc Kohler 7000 Series PRO V-twin OHV engine.

The premium 20-inch high-back seat is fully adjustable for added comfort, and the innovative polymer seat isolators make for a quieter, more comfortable ride over any surface.

All in all, the 7 mph forward and 3.5 mph reverse ground speeds made possible by its dual hydrostatic transmissions mean that your lawn will be left looking professionally manicured in no time.

What We Like

• Powerful engine
• Adjustable seat
• Synchro-steer technology
• Versatile
• 3-year no-hour limit warranty
• Limited frame and deck shell warranty

Cub Cadet Ultima ZTS1

Now that Stanley Black Decker owns Cub Cadet, the company has upgraded its Ultima ZTS Series Zero-turn mowers with Synchro-Steer technology.

With this, front wheels move more smoothly and less often than they would otherwise without damaging the grass. This is especially noticeable on inclines and slopes. An adjustable high-back premium cut-and-sewn seat and a flexible steering column add convenience.

The mower also performs well when you mow damp grass on an incline. While the front wheels of a lap bar system are only 360-degree swiveling casters, Synchro-Steer uses all four wheels to provide accurate steering.

What We Like

• Synchro-Steer
• 23 HP engine
• Provides a signature cut
• Good for mowing hills
• 3-year/unlimited hour warranty
• Limited lifetime warranty

Toro TimeCutter SWX5000

In terms of the operator’s comfort, MyRide is among the most significant innovations developed for the best zero-turn mowers.

MyRide, an innovative suspension technology first offered for the commercial operator two years ago, is now also available for the home TimeCutter MX and HD line of ZTRs. And now it’s within reach of even the most modest budget.

This mower has seven different cutting height settings ranging from 1-1/2 inches to 4-1/2 inches. It features the Smart Park brake system and the Key Selection system, which are very convenient for an affordable zero-turn mower.

What We Like

• 50-inch cutting width
• Hydrostatic transmission
• 3-year limited warranty with unlimited hours
• 3-bladed mowing system
• Affordable

Troy-Bilt XP Mustang

Powered by a 725cc V-twin cylinder Kohler engine, this lawn mower with steering wheels is among the best on the market. Its 25 HP engine is powerful enough to tackle even the steepest inclines and declines on your lawn without a hitch.

Fast mowing is crucial when you have a lawn that’s five acres or more, so you’ll be happy to know that this impressive zero-turn vehicle can travel as fast as 7 mph in a straight line and 2.5 mph in reverse. You won’t have to worry about keeping up with time.

As an added feature, you can precisely adjust the speed and direction with the steering wheels.

Buyer’s Guide for Zero Turn Mowers Equipped With a Steering Wheel

Size and Weight

The purchase of a lightweight unit will make mowing operations much easier. Mowing for lengthy periods can be exhausting, so choose a mower that is easy to maneuver while cutting grass or stowing away.

The type of zero-turn mower you need will change based on the dimensions of your lawn. All available mowers have a maximum recommended lot size. Even though it can be more cost-effective, you shouldn’t skimp on a lawnmower designed for a large lawn.

Lap Bar Steering or Traditional Steering?

A lap bar and a standard steering wheel are options for zero-turn mowers’ means of movement. The zero-turn mower’s steering mechanism is typically a lap bar.

Mowing around the edges of slopes and hills requires greater control over the front wheels, provided by the newer version with a more conventional steering wheel.

If you’re a novice and have never used a lap bar, the steering wheel will feel natural because it functions similarly to a car’s wheel.

Compared to a mower with a steering wheel, the one with a lap bar requires a different machine-directing method. Driving a lap bar mower is like riding a horse since you steer by pushing the bars forward to gain speed.

Mowing left requires pulling the left bar nearer you, while right requires pulling the right. Lap bar mowers, like shopping carts, have free-rolling caster wheels up front.

Due to the lack of front-wheel traction on a lap bar mower, “grass tear” can occur if you go down an incline.

As a result, lap bar mowers are acceptable if your lawn is extremely flat. However, a mower with a steering wheel may be more suitable if your lawn is slanted.

What to know before buying a riding lawn mower

Before you splurge on a new riding lawn mower, read this guide to figure out what type of machine is best for your needs.

Sean Jackson is a creative copywriter living in Florida. He’s had work published with Realtor.com, theScore, ESPN, and the San Francisco Chronicle. In his free time, Sean likes to play drums, fail miserably at improv and spend time at the beach.

Keeping your yard looking sharp is an important part of homeownership. A well-maintained lawn not only enhances your home’s curb appeal, it could also increase its value. That’s why it makes plenty of sense to invest in a decent lawn mower. With robot mowers still struggling to gain traction. your choices are mainly split between walking models and riding models.

A walking lawn mower is perfect if you have a small yard. However, if your yard exceeds a quarter of an acre, or you’re looking to spend less time mowing it, then it’s worth considering the upgrade to a riding lawn mower. This guide will help you find the right one by examining factors like your lawn size, type of terrain and special features to look for.

How big is your lawn?

The size of your lawn is a vital factor when you’re choosing a lawn mower. After all, if you’ve got a large lawn encompassing multiple acres, then your mower will need the chops to handle the job well while saving you time.

One effective way to measure a mower’s capabilities is its cut width, which tells you how wide a strip of grass it can clear in a single pass. The bigger the cut width, the more grass you’ll be able to mow at once.

A yard less than 1 acre would do well with a cutting width of 30 to 42 inches. Two popular models that fit the bill are the Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro and the Craftsman T210 Turn Tight. Both mowers have 18-horsepower gas engines, hydrostatic transmissions and a cutting width of 42 inches.

Lawns 5 or more acres in size will typically require a cutting width of at least 54 inches.- otherwise you’ll be out there mowing all day. One such model is the Troy-Bilt Super Bronco 54 XP. With a 24-HP gas engine and a broad, 54-inch cutting width, it should make fast work of big lawns.

Study your property’s terrain

Does your lawn have lots of obstacles to navigate? If it does, consider a riding mower with a tight turning radius, which is helpful for steering around tight spots and corners. A tighter turning radius makes for smoother handling, and it’ll help to ensure a uniform cut. A mower’s turn radius is usually listed in inches with smaller figures describing tighter turns.

Meanwhile, if your yard contains an abundance of items like flower beds or shrubs, then a zero-turn mower might be more your speed. With a zero-turn mower, you’ll use a pair of levers instead of a steering wheel to maneuver. Zero-turn mowers spin on a dime, with an effective turning radius of 0 inches. They have a high forward speed, too. That allows them to whip around tight edges while still providing a smooth cut.

One example of a zero-turn mower is the John Deere Z355R. It’s equipped with a 22-HP gas engine and has a top speed of 7 miles per hour.

Carts and attachments

Riding mowers can do more than just cut grass. For instance, some can haul extra items. You can hitch stuff like dump carts, giving you the option to move lawn debris and other items with ease. Other handy options include snow plows and even snowblower attachments to deal with tough winters.

Comfort options

There are comfort features you can look for in your next mower, too. Seating is a primary point of FOCUS, especially if you’ll be riding on your mower for hours at a time. If long rides like those are a concern, look for a mower with high-back seats, lumbar support and armrests, as they can help keep you comfortable for a longer ride.

Some riding mowers also include cup holders to keep you hydrated while you’re out mowing. There are also options for extended leg room, rubber foot pedals and much more.

Other features and capabilities

As you shop, be sure to factor in engine design, as well. Single engines tend to be the least expensive and are perfect for smaller yards. However, if you have a yard with multiple acres, then you should consider a V-twin engine. Not only does a V-twin provide faster mowing, it helps you navigate uneven terrain with ease.

Some riding lawn mowers can also mow in reverse.- a helpful feature if you need a different angle when cutting around obstacles. Additionally, cutting in reverse often helps to smooth out spots over hilly terrain.

Find the right balance

So now you know some of the key things to consider when choosing a lawn mower. The final step is to weigh the features you want against your budget. Also, keep in mind that some manufacturers such as John Deere offer financing incentives. Better yet, if you pay off the loan within the promotional period, you’re not on the hook for interest charges.

Financing like that could also give you the flexibility to purchase a more powerful lawn mower, or even the machine of your dreams. And with regular maintenance. your lawn mower could provide many years of valuable service.