How to Start and Drive a Zero Turn Lawn Mower

Do you want to know how to start and operate a zero turn mower ? it’s ok, do not worry. We are here to guide you. Actually it requires some simple steps and procedures like starting the engine, cleaning the area, knowing the safety features, while running how to control  etc. In this guide we have covered some important steps and easy procedures which will guide you for an easy and smooth operation. Let’s discuss.

Starting Your Zero Turn Lawn Mower

Pre-Start Check

Before you start the mower first you make sure that there is no one nearby your mower. Otherwise while your mower moves, may some accidents happen. So ensure everything is safe and good. So a pre-start check is important.

Engaging Safety Features

While mowing safety is our first priority. Every zero turn mower model has safety features. Like the knob or lever which is called Power Take Off (PTO). Now push this PTO to turn off the blades from spinning. Now it is safe for mowing.

Setting up Steering

Sit on the mower and move both the steering control levers (to each side). Then it becomes neutral or middle position and your mower gets ready for driving.

Secure the Mower

Before starting, lock the wheels by pulling the parking brake lever which keeps the mower from rolling.

Cold Engine Start

If you find the engine has cold then pull up the choke knob before starting. It helps you to start the engine smoothly.Once the engine is running, you push the choke knob back down to let the engine run normally.

Adjust Throttle

For a gentle and controlled start set the throttle or engine speed to slow or turtle mode.

Turn On The Key

Insert the key and turn it to start the engine. Once it’s running, let go of the key. If it does not start then wait for 60 seconds and try again.

Release Parking Brake

Push the parking brake lever down to unlock it.

Driving Your Zero Turn Mower

Driving Forward

Now you can slowly push both the lap bars to go forward or for fast forward push them farther.

Slowing Down/Stopping

Pull the lap bars back to the neutral position to slow and stop. There are no separate brake pedals.

Turning

If you want to go right move the lap bar to left and move it to right forward to go left. 

Reverse

Carefully pull the lap bars evenly back to go in reverse.

Changing Directions

Make a three-point turn by driving forward, stopping, backing up, and then going on again. 

Cutting Height

To adjust the grass cutting height use the pedal to raise or lower the deck.

Finishing Up

Before getting off the mower, disengage the blades and set the parking brake.

Now you know how to start and drive zero turn lawn mower. You may also like to read our other article comprehensive buyer’s guide for zero turn lawn mower.

End thought

These are the easy steps to start and operate the zero turn mower. Knowing the safety features of every model is very important. Before starting a zero turn mower these are common to know like how to turn in a smooth way,deck height adjustment, the lap bar used for controlling speed etc. So we covered all the steps which will help you to get an efficient mowing. 

FAQs: 

How do I start a zero-turn lawn mower?

To start a zero-turn lawn mower, ensure the parking brake is engaged, set both control levers to the neutral position, turn the ignition key, and engage the mower blades if necessary. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for your specific model in the operator’s manual.

How do I operate a zero-turn lawn mower efficiently?

The efficient operation involves using the control levers independently to manoeuvre. Push both levers forward for forward movement, pull them back for reverse, and move one lever forward while pulling the other back for zero-turning—practice in an open area to get comfortable with the controls and maximize efficiency.

What safety precautions should I take when driving a zero-turn lawn mower?

Prioritize the safety by wearing appropriate protective gear, such as eye and ear protection. Always mow on a dry surface and avoid steep slopes. Keep bystanders away, and be cautious when reversing. Familiarize yourself with the mower’s controls and features before an operation to ensure a safe and smooth mowing experience.