Tips for the use of a using Lawn Mower to cut grass

A riding lawn mower can be a convenient way to trim grass over a large area. The machines combine cutting blades with a riding engine and steering column. The proper care and maintenance of the unit is essential for safety. It is also important to understand that using a self-propelled machine requires a high level of focus and more caution than using a manual model.

Inspect all Parts before Use

A riding lawn mower is a much more complex machine than other devices that are used to cut grass. There are many riding lawn mower parts that need to be inspected, changed and cared for each season and sometimes after every few uses. The spark plugs should be changed every spring. The lawn mower belt on the deck should be replaced whenever they start to become slack. The blades, cables and any gears should be well lubricated. The fluids like gasoline and oil need to be drained and refilled each season. The vehicle should not be used if there are any problems, large vibrations or if the engine is making odd sounds.

Clear the Area of Debris

Before starting to work on any area, it is important to walk through the grass and remove any debris. Riding mowers can make it difficult to see the ground immediately around the unit. Rocks, garden tools, toys and other debris can break the cutting blades or can jam the gears, causing damage to the engine or the lawn mower belts. The few minutes that are required to clear out an area are worth the effort.

Lawn & Garden Belt

Use a Half-Pass Style

One of the best ways to ensure a consistent and even cut with a riding lawn mower is to make half-passes on each row. This means that after a single row has been cut, the mower should move back along the edge of that row so that the blades are overlapping into the previously cut space. This prevents thin strips of uncut grass from being left behind. It also guarantees that weeds and other stems that might be hard to cut are actually fully severed. A half-pass style of mowing is very effective for machines that have mulching attachments.

Stay Hydrated

Unlike push or manual models, a riding lawn mower does not require a large amount of physical effort to use. The same issues that need to be addressed when working with a manual unit need to be carefully monitored while using a riding model. Strong sunlight, heat and the fumes from the engine can all combine to create conditions that are right for heat stroke, dehydration and exhaustion. It is important to stay hydrated by drinking water while working on the lawn. It is just as vital to take breaks on large properties so that fatigue does not set in.

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