10 Easy Ways to Maintain Your Zero-Turn Mower

Keep It Cutting Clean: 10 Easy Ways to Maintain Your Zero-Turn Mower

If you own a zero-turn mower, you already know it’s a serious machine for serious lawn care. These mowers are efficient, powerful, and built to handle big jobs quickly—but like any piece of equipment, they need regular TLC to keep running smoothly. Whether you’re mowing acres or just like a crisp cut on your yard, here are 10 key tips to help you maintain your zero-turn mower and extend its life.

1. 

Check the Oil Regularly

Your mower’s engine needs clean oil to perform its best. Check the oil before each use, and change it every 50 hours of operation or as recommended in your owner’s manual. Don’t forget to replace the oil filter too!

2. 

Keep the Blades Sharp

Dull blades tear grass rather than cut it, which stresses your lawn and your mower. Sharpen the blades every 25 hours of mowing or sooner if you hit rocks or debris. If sharpening isn’t your thing, swap them out for a new set.

3. 

Clean the Undercarriage

Grass clippings, mud, and debris can cake up under the deck and reduce your mower’s performance. Use a scraper or hose (if your mower has a washout port) to clean underneath the deck regularly.

4. 

Check the Air Filter

A dirty air filter can choke your engine. Check it after every few uses and replace it at least once per season—or more often if you’re mowing in dusty conditions.

5. 

Keep an Eye on Tire Pressure

Uneven tire pressure can lead to an uneven cut. Use a tire gauge to check the pressure and inflate to the recommended PSI listed in your manual.

6. 

Inspect the Belts

Belts drive your mower’s blades and help the machine move. Look for signs of cracking, fraying, or stretching, and replace worn belts before they break mid-mow.

7. 

Grease Moving Parts

Lubrication is key to preventing wear and tear. Apply grease to the spindles, caster wheels, and other pivot points as directed by your mower’s manual.

8. 

Clean the Mower After Use

After mowing, blow or brush off grass clippings from the deck, engine, and wheels. This prevents build-up that can cause rust and interfere with performance.

9. 

Store It Right

Keep your mower in a dry, sheltered area—preferably in a garage or shed. If you store it for winter, drain the fuel or add a stabilizer, remove the battery, and give it a good cleaning.

10. 

Schedule a Yearly Tune-Up

At least once a year, give your mower a full tune-up. That includes changing the oil and filters, checking spark plugs, sharpening blades, and inspecting belts and tires. Many local shops offer seasonal service packages if you’d rather leave it to the pros.

Final Cut

Regular maintenance isn’t just about keeping your zero-turn mower running—it’s about protecting your investment and making every mow as smooth and clean as the first. A little care goes a long way toward a perfect cut and a long-lasting machine.