Restoring Your Zero-Turn Mower

From landscapers to yard work enthusiasts, zero-turn mowers make lawn care easy for a lot of people. But these machines still age, rust, and break down over time, so it can be useful to learn how to get it back in working shape. We here at Burrows Tractor want to help you get your money’s worth from your tools, so we’ve put together some tips on restoring your zero-turn mower below. To learn more, or to see the zero-turn mowers we have for sale, contact our stores throughout Oregon and Washington, today!

Gather Supplies

Step one in any heavy-duty maintenance procedure is to make sure you have all the right supplies. For repairs, you’ll need:

• Continuity tester.
• Voltmeter.
• Welder.
• Screwdrivers.
• Wrenches.
• Pliers.
• Wire cutters.
• Sockets.
• Jacks (either motorcycle or scissor).

Then to touch up the appearance you’ll want:

• Rust-resistant primer.
• Paint.
• Brushes.
• Wire scrapers or sandpaper.
• Lubricants.

Electronics

First, check out your electrical systems. The spark plugs should be your first priority, so check if they need cleaning or replacing. Next, ensure the ignition switch is intact and functioning properly. If you need a replacement, you’ll have to wire it in yourself, making sure not to bypass any safety switches in the process. Finally, check all wires and terminals for damage or corrosion. Replace what needs to be, clean what you can, and you’re set.

Fuel System

Next, the fuel system. Check the lines from the tank to the engine for loose connections and damage. Replace any damaged ones, then clean out the tank and lines to flush out any buildup. Verify that the carburetor is still good and replace it is it’s not.

Any time you have to disassemble something complicated, take pictures or videos of the process so you know how to rebuild it.

Cutting Deck

It’s time to break out the jacks! Lift your mower and remove the cutting deck entirely by pulling the pins that hold it on. Check the belt driver’s condition, and if all is well there, move on to the blades. Remove and sharpen them to ensure efficient and clean cuts, then check the deck itself for any tears or holes. Weld any you find closed to prevent escalating issues.

Freshen Up

That’s all the heavy stuff, so now all you need to do is help your mower look as good as it now runs. Remove any rust buildup with the wire brushes or sandpaper carefully, so as not to damage the metal beneath it. Apply rust-resistant primer and let it dry, then repaint the mower and let it dry again. Just like that, you’re restored your mower!

We hope these tips get your restoration journey off on the right foot.Contact us at Burrows Tractor for more information, if you need maintenance assistance, or you just want to see our selection of lawn mowers. We proudly serve Oregon and Washington—let us serve you today!