Zero turn tricks/tips

[Ryan_V]

Dad bought a new zero turn that we share. I can operate it just fine, but does anyone have any tricks or tips for not digging up the yard when you do a 180? Anything other handy tricks you pro lawn guys would like to share?

[MuleShack]

Yup, dont do a 180.

Do a 3 point turn...roll into a sweeping 90 degree turn, back up another 90 careful not to pivot and take off the other way. This takes a little longer, but doesn't create holes at the end of each run in the yard.

Also dont force the inside wheel. If your making a left hand 180, let the left (handle) wheel float and push with the right. This way the left wheel will actually roll a little instead of staying stationary and digging (pivoting) in the turn.

3pt turn is the best option though.

[MuleShack]

Tip: When coming up to a tree (with mulch or rock around it) in the yard or any real obstacle, go close to the edge and go 90 degrees around 1/4, back up and keep going straight. On the next pass you will get the other side and wrap around another 90 to get the back side, back up a little and continue on. This eliminates the big circles around obstacles in the yard.

[LwnmwnMan2]

Muleshack nailed it.

Don't driveall the way around trees as eventually you'll tear out the grass in a circle around the obstacle.

It's like 4 wheel drive on drive pavement. You're always slightly dragging that inside tire.

Make a picture frame around your yard two mower widths wide, blowing the grass towards the middle. Then make passes back and forth across the yard, alternating patterns weekly, or as you mow.

[LightningBG]

One simple key is to always keep that inside wheel turning, never let it sit still and pivot.