Simplicity lawn mower troubleshooting. Fix Your Hydrostatic Transmission Problems Fast

Starting a Riding Lawn Mower

If you have a wide lawn, using a riding lawn mower is much preferred than using a conventional mower. The reason behind this is that it is easier to mow a wide lawn using this type of mower. To get the most out of your riding lawn mower, you need to choose the one that suits your needs and maintain the unit properly.

It is important to note that riding lawn mowers are more expensive compared to traditional mowers because of several advantages that they offer. Even when you are just starting out, there are several options that you can choose from. You can either go for a zero turning mower or the tractor type, both of which have different pros and cons. Regardless of the riding mower type you select, you can ensure that it is a lot better than using a push mower.

Benefits of Riding Lawn Mowers

Riding lawn mowers are recommended to people who have a wide lawn to mow. This type of lawn mower comes with different sets of features. There are models that come with attachments designed to catch grass clippings while others have mulching capabilities. However, there are also models that come with both features.

Another notable thing about riding mowers is that they are capable of storing larger quantities of fuel and features an electric startup. Additionally, this type of mower is also easy to handle when it comes with cutting decks. Therefore, you would be able to adjust the mower based on your specific needs. Also, finding parts in case of replacement is easier with riding mowers compared to traditional ones.

Riding Mower Quick Start Guide

Since most riding mowers come with electric, all you need to do is to turn the key. It is a lot better than traditional mowers in which you need pull a cord in order to crank the mower. This section will discuss the things that you need to check prior to starting the machine.

Electric Start Troubleshooting

It is imperative that you double-check the battery when using an electric start mower. Along with the mower’s battery, the machine’s ignition system highly relies on a starter and solenoid switch. If you have issues starting the mower and the battery is not the problem, the next possible culprit would be the solenoid switch. In the event that the problem is with the starter, this can be a complex issue as you need to disconnect some of the mower’s wires and take off the started. Preferably, it needs to be done by a profession or an auto parts store.

Check the machine’s oil level

Although this part is already given, there are some users who forget to check the oil level of the machine before starting it up. Running a driving mower with low oil can damage the machine. You can check the oil level by using a dipstick. This process does not take more than ten seconds to do. Ten seconds is just a short amount of time to endure than spending thousands of dollars replacing your mower’s engines.

Check if the safety is on

Usually, safety-related issues are the culprit if most mower start-up issues. Similar to walk behind mowers, riding lawn mowers also comes with safety switches. Generally, a riding mower comes with a switch that turns off the engine if you are not sitting firmly on the machine’s seat. This feature ensures the safety of the driver in case he or she should fall off the machine. Also, there are mowers that come with a switch that hinders the mower from cranking of the blades are engaged. This type of feature helps the machine in protecting its engine from wear and tear.

Starting a Riding Mower

Riding lawn mowers are known for their notoriety in cutting wide lawns in a short amount of time. Starting a riding mower can take some time especially if the engine is cold. It will take some extra cranking time to ensure that the machine’s fuel travels to the engine. Riding mowers that are frequently used with start without any issues. When starting a riding mower, make sure that you allow the machine’s starter to crank for more than 15 seconds. Listed below are the steps on how to start a riding mower.

Take a seat on the machine and press the clutch/brake lever located on the left side of the riding mower using your left foot. Set the machine’s parking brake using the lever or knob to the right side of the mower.

Move the mower’s gear shift lever into “N” or neutral position.

Position the mower’s throttle lever between the slow and fast position. Most models feature a turtle icon for slow and a rabbit icon for fast.

Insert the machine’s ignition key into the ignition switch. Then, turn the key to the right. This time around, you need to ensure that the starter cranks the engine for at least 15 seconds. If the machine does not start right away, continue cranking the starter until the engine starts up.

Gradually push the machine’s choke knob back right after the engine has started. Raise the throttle to faster position and let the engine warm up before installing any mower attachment or driving the mower around your lawn.

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

A smoking lawn mower is never a good sign. Whether the smoke is blue, white, or black, here’s how to identity and address the issue without the help of a professional.

By Glenda Taylor and Bob Vila | Updated Sep 24, 2020 1:40 PM

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Q: Recently, my mower started billowing smoke when I powered it up, so I shut it off immediately. Why is my lawn mower smoking? And is it a fire hazard? I want to know how to proceed so I don’t harm the machine.

A: Your lawn mower can emit smoke for numerous reasons—many of which don’t require the services of an expert. A homeowner can usually identify the reason for a smoking lawn mower by gauging the color of the Cloud coming around the engine, then fix it accordingly before lasting damage occurs. Keep in mind that all mowers with internal combustion engines contain the same basic parts, but the configuration of those parts varies widely, depending on manufacturer and model. Consult your owner’s manual if you’re unsure how to access a specific part of your lawn mower’s engine.

White or blue smoke may indicate an oil spill on the engine.

If you’ve recently changed the oil in your mower and the engine is emitting white or blue smoke, it’s possible that some of the oil spilled onto the engine. Similarly, you could’ve spilled oil on the engine by mowing on a slope greater than 15 degrees or tipping the mower on its side. The smoke may look disconcerting, but it’s completely harmless. Solve the problem by restarting the mower and allowing the spilled oil to burn off. If you tip the mower often for cleaning or maintenance, check your owner’s manual to determine the best way to reduce the risk of oil leaks.

An overfull oil reservoir may also cause white or blue smoke.

Ensure you didn’t overfill the mower by checking the oil level with the dipstick located on the reservoir. To do this, remove the dipstick cap, wipe off the stick with a rag, and reinsert it into the reservoir. Then remove the dipstick once again and determine the oil level in comparison to the recommended “fill” line on the stick. If the level is too high, drain the oil (consult your owner’s manual for instructions), then refill the reservoir with it. Start checking the oil level with the dipstick after you’ve added about ¾ of the amount recommended in the manual. Continue to add small amounts of oil until the level matches the recommended “fill” line. Also note that using the wrong grade of engine oil may cause blue or white smoke. Consult the owner’s manual for the exact type of oil recommended for your mower.

Black smoke may indicate that the mower is “running rich,” or burning too much gasoline.

Your lawn mower’s carburetor regulates the ratio of gasoline to air mixture. If the carburetor isn’t getting enough air, the mixture has a higher percentage of gasoline, which can create black exhaust smoke. It’s possible that a dirty or clogged air filter is preventing sufficient airflow into the carburetor. Try replacing the air filter. (Note: air filters vary by mower model; view example air filter on Amazon.) Next, run your lawn mower for a few minutes. If the black smoke still appears, the carburetor might need to be adjusted in order to increase airflow. Either take the mower to a professional or adjust the carburetor yourself with instructions in your owner’s manual.

Take your mower to a repair shop if necessary.

If the previous steps don’t correct blue or white smoke, your mower could have a more serious problem, such as an air leak in the crankshaft (the cast iron or cast aluminum case that protects the moving parts of a mower’s engine). Continuing blue or white smoke could also indicate that some of the engine’s components or seals are worn out and need replacement. Similarly, if black smoking still persists after you’ve replaced the air filter and adjusted the carburetor, you could be facing a more serious mechanical issue. All of these problems require the help of a professional. If your mower is still under warranty, check with the manufacturer for the location of the nearest servicing dealer; problems stemming from a factory defect or poor workmanship may garner free repairs. If your mower is not covered under warranty, a reputable small-engine repair shop should also be sufficient to get the job done.

Starting a Riding Lawn Mower

If you have a wide lawn, using a riding lawn mower is much preferred than using a conventional mower. The reason behind this is that it is easier to mow a wide lawn using this type of mower. To get the most out of your riding lawn mower, you need to choose the one that suits your needs and maintain the unit properly.

It is important to note that riding lawn mowers are more expensive compared to traditional mowers because of several advantages that they offer. Even when you are just starting out, there are several options that you can choose from. You can either go for a zero turning mower or the tractor type, both of which have different pros and cons. Regardless of the riding mower type you select, you can ensure that it is a lot better than using a push mower.

Benefits of Riding Lawn Mowers

Riding lawn mowers are recommended to people who have a wide lawn to mow. This type of lawn mower comes with different sets of features. There are models that come with attachments designed to catch grass clippings while others have mulching capabilities. However, there are also models that come with both features.

Another notable thing about riding mowers is that they are capable of storing larger quantities of fuel and features an electric startup. Additionally, this type of mower is also easy to handle when it comes with cutting decks. Therefore, you would be able to adjust the mower based on your specific needs. Also, finding parts in case of replacement is easier with riding mowers compared to traditional ones.

Riding Mower Quick Start Guide

Since most riding mowers come with electric, all you need to do is to turn the key. It is a lot better than traditional mowers in which you need pull a cord in order to crank the mower. This section will discuss the things that you need to check prior to starting the machine.

Electric Start Troubleshooting

It is imperative that you double-check the battery when using an electric start mower. Along with the mower’s battery, the machine’s ignition system highly relies on a starter and solenoid switch. If you have issues starting the mower and the battery is not the problem, the next possible culprit would be the solenoid switch. In the event that the problem is with the starter, this can be a complex issue as you need to disconnect some of the mower’s wires and take off the started. Preferably, it needs to be done by a profession or an auto parts store.

Check the machine’s oil level

Although this part is already given, there are some users who forget to check the oil level of the machine before starting it up. Running a driving mower with low oil can damage the machine. You can check the oil level by using a dipstick. This process does not take more than ten seconds to do. Ten seconds is just a short amount of time to endure than spending thousands of dollars replacing your mower’s engines.

Check if the safety is on

Usually, safety-related issues are the culprit if most mower start-up issues. Similar to walk behind mowers, riding lawn mowers also comes with safety switches. Generally, a riding mower comes with a switch that turns off the engine if you are not sitting firmly on the machine’s seat. This feature ensures the safety of the driver in case he or she should fall off the machine. Also, there are mowers that come with a switch that hinders the mower from cranking of the blades are engaged. This type of feature helps the machine in protecting its engine from wear and tear.

Starting a Riding Mower

Riding lawn mowers are known for their notoriety in cutting wide lawns in a short amount of time. Starting a riding mower can take some time especially if the engine is cold. It will take some extra cranking time to ensure that the machine’s fuel travels to the engine. Riding mowers that are frequently used with start without any issues. When starting a riding mower, make sure that you allow the machine’s starter to crank for more than 15 seconds. Listed below are the steps on how to start a riding mower.

Take a seat on the machine and press the clutch/brake lever located on the left side of the riding mower using your left foot. Set the machine’s parking brake using the lever or knob to the right side of the mower.

Move the mower’s gear shift lever into “N” or neutral position.

Position the mower’s throttle lever between the slow and fast position. Most models feature a turtle icon for slow and a rabbit icon for fast.

Insert the machine’s ignition key into the ignition switch. Then, turn the key to the right. This time around, you need to ensure that the starter cranks the engine for at least 15 seconds. If the machine does not start right away, continue cranking the starter until the engine starts up.

Gradually push the machine’s choke knob back right after the engine has started. Raise the throttle to faster position and let the engine warm up before installing any mower attachment or driving the mower around your lawn.