So, even though Zero Turn Mowers (just like their name suggests) are amazing at sharp turning, as well as being able to maneuver around curbs and edges; they are not as good dealing with rough or undulating terrain.
In fact, Zero Turn Mowers are really made for more detailed work – hills and inclines can really be a challenge for Zero Turn Mowers!
If you are dealing with rough terrain then you may want to consider a high-wheel mower, keep reading to learn more!
Do Zero Turns Do Well On Hills?
Typically, Zero Turn mowers won’t be able to handle hills higher than a 15-degree incline.
Instead, the blade could hit the ground, and make a heavy stop.
If you want a lawnmower that’s capable of going up hills, a high wheel lawnmower would be a better fit!
About Your Zero Turn Mower
Zero turn mowers are designed low to the ground.
When it comes to mowing in a standard mow, or doing detail-work, then using a zero turn mower could not be any easier.
To move forward, you simply push on two levers to go forward and to pull-back to reverse!
Most zero turn mowers are also defined by having two small wheels that are on the front of any zero turn mower.
These give the mower – as well as the person mowing – so much freedom!
So, while zero turn mowers are nice and convenient to use, they are designed for a purpose.
From steep terrain or hills – which can prove problematic for zero turn mowers (if you are approaching inclines or 15 degrees or more); the best use for these are detail work.
You usually will want a high-wheel mower for true rough lawnmowing – if it is really gardening or landscaping, and is preferable.
Which is why: if it can be done, many want to have one of each (zero turn and high wheel) mower!
Are Zero Turn Lawn Mowers Good On Rough Terrain?
Generally speaking, zero turn lawn mowers aren’t equipped for rough terrain.
Zero-turn mowers are meant to provide a precise cut with all the angle turns needed.
This is what allows for edging and detail work to be done. Again, you may not need a new mower.
Zero turn lawn mowers can do small inclines, up to 15 degrees.
But if you have a very hilly lawn, you may also want to consider using a high-wheel lawnmower!
Although you may be able to use a zero turn mower on rough terrain, using a high-wheel lawn mower might be a bit easier!
That’s what high-wheel zero turn mowers are for, whereas zero turns are meant strictly for level lawns – and not detail work!
How Do You Use a Zero Turn Mower?
Now that you’re somewhat familiar with Zero Turn Mowers (and versus high-wheel mowers), you might be eager to learn more about this detail-oriented lawnmower.
Check it out below!
Basics Steps for Using a Zero Turn Mower
You are probably aware that Zero Turn Mowers are made to be ridden on, with the motor in the back out of the way and for better visibility (since most mowers have the engine on the front, the Zero Turn Mower is an exception).
In summary, a Zero Turn Mower offers a comfortable, convenient and, some would argue luxurious, way to mow!
So, how do you operate a Zero Turn Mower?
It couldn’t be any simpler!
Start the Mower
Good news, starting a Zero Turn mower is pretty straightforward.
This mower is all about speed, responsiveness and the ability to work with sharp turns (as well as other detail-work).
To start the Zero Turn Mower, you only have to follow 3 steps:
- Put the key into the ignition. This starts the engine.
- If the choke is on, push the choke inward.
- Pushing both levers inward to move forward or pull both to move backward.
- That should really be it!
What to Mow
At the end of the day, the biggest advantage of a Zero Turn Mower is both speed and accuracy.
These mowers will get you as close as possible to an object while providing a nice finish.
This means any brick edging you might have around your garden, trees, etc., detailed work can be achieved.
(While you don’t want to nail the brick, or whatever you have an edge, there’s only so much you can do with a Zero Turn Mower).
If you’re looking make the lawn look fresh, and just jump on your own Zero Turn Mower, and you should be just fine!
What Not to Mow
So, Zero Turn Mowers are quite useful – we have established that.
They are all about detail-work. What are things you shouldn’t do with a Zero Turn Mower?
First, hills over 15 degrees.
Zero Turns can mow tall grass, but like any mower, they would really prefer you to keep the grass mowed regularly!
How Do Zero Turn Mowers Work?
So how do Zero Turn Mowers operate exactly?
Zero Turn Mowers, get the job done with their super-sharp blades along with a ground-hugging frame. They cut quickly and can tackle grass (as well as some weeds, in moderation).
Each wheel acts independently (thanks to hydraulic motors on each axle), depending on its lever, allowing you to turn on a dime and turn freely!
Just remember, when operating a Zero Turn mower, diesel and non-diesel gas don’t mix.
Also, no outdoor equipment should ever get gas that exceeds 10% ethanol.
And lastly, it’s best to store any lawnmower with still-fuelled, this will help to ensure the mower doesn’t dry out, and to prevent rust from forming in the tank!
What You Can Do With Your Zero Turn Mower
Zero Turn lawn mowers are not only great at turning pretty easily,
This kind of lawn mower also gets you moving pretty fast. Most lawn mowers are at 4 MPH as the maximum. A Zero Turn Mower can go serious fast up to 8 MPH, to get your lawn mow done, cheap and fast!
All you need to do is adjust the choke and press the level forward to get juice to the motor, and you got potential fast speeds for edges, curves, and open fields.
This is why a Zero Turn Mower is robust to grass areas too.
If your yard is mostly smooth with objects around that you want to mow around (decor, sprinklers, garden plots, etc.) a Zero Turn mower can work for that too!
Maintaining Your Zero Turn Lawnmower
Obviously, it’s the half the job with any outdoor stuff… maintenance.
Few things you can do to keep your Zero Turn lawnmower running smoothly:
- Store correctly. Make sure your mower is stored in a cool area and not in the sun, keep it full of fuel.
- Keep the blades sharp. After you use your Zero Turn mower for a bit, you will want to check the blades and check to see if they’re sharp. This is important to check for any lawnmower!
- Check the air filter.
- Clean the mower deck.
- Make sure the tires have the correct air pressure.
Final Words
Next up, the actual boundaries of what Zero Turn Mowers can tackle: Zero Turns have, at minimum, a restriction of 15-degree slopes.
First and foremost, Zero Turn lawnmowers are highly capable mowers, but they are designed for speed and maneuverability – enter the ZTR.
Not only is the Zero Turn mower a blast to mow and navigate around your lawn, but it also allows you to handle the majority of larger areas of lawn at 8 MPH!