8 Tips To Start A Gravely Zero Turn Mower Easier
Gravely zero turn mowers are getting more and more popular among the homeowners because they are easy to use, maintenance-free and cuts very close to the grass without leaving a mess behind. The only problem with them is that most of the time, they are not used properly. Therefore, if you are using a gravely zero turn mower for the first time then you should read this article completely. After reading this article you will be able to use your mower in an effective way and it will last longer. So let’s start.
Adjust your seat height
Most of the time people adjust the height of their seat when they buy a new lawnmower, but this is not necessary. You should adjust the height of your seat only if it is uncomfortable for you. If you are sitting on the ground then your feet should be flat on the ground and if you are sitting on a stool then the seat height should be comfortable for you. The ideal height of the seat is such that your knees are almost at the level of your hips. This will make your mowing experience more comfortable and less strenuous.
Tie down your grass clippings
Grass clippings can get everywhere. If you don’t tie them down then they will be blown away by the wind and you will have a clean yard with no grass clippings. Therefore, it is always a good idea to tie down the grass clippings. You can use the twine or even a plastic bag to do this. Make sure you tie the twine or the plastic bag tightly so that the wind doesn’t blow it away.
Don’t overdo it
When you are mowing the lawn for the first time then you should mow only half of the lawn. This will help you to learn how the mower works and also to avoid overloading the engine. If you are using a zero turn mower then the overload protection will kick in automatically and will stop the engine. Therefore, you should not overload your mower intentionally.
Keep your fingers outside the metal guard
The metal guard on the handlebars is there to protect your hands from getting hurt, but if you keep your fingers inside the metal guard then you will not be able to feel the blades of the grass and this may lead to you cutting the grass too short or even severing a finger. So always keep your fingers outside the metal guard.
Turn the mower off if you are not using it
Most people leave the mower running all the time even when they are not using it. This is a big mistake. This increases the wear and tear on the engine and it also increases the noise level of the mower. So always turn the mower off when you are not using it. You can use the switch on the handlebars or even use the foot pedal.
Don’t try to go uphill with the mower
This is one of the biggest mistakes that people make while using a zero turn mower. When you are going uphill then the weight of the mower is on the front tires and this puts a lot of stress on them. And this causes the mower to jerk and throws you off balance. So always go up the hill with the engine off. This will help you to learn how to use your mower in an effective way.
Conclusion
So these were the 8 tips to use a gravely zero turn mower. These tips will ensure that your mower lasts longer, cuts close to the grass and also reduces the strain on your body. So, follow these tips and enjoy using your new mower. I am sure after reading this article you will be able to use your mower for many years to come.