cleaning scag mower

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Batteries are easily accessible from various locations on all models. For more from our reviewer on buildup under a lawn mower deck, including how to clean off grass thats already built up, keep reading! 4. Make sure all hydraulic fluid connections are tight and all hydraulic hoses and lines are in good condition before starting the machine. Step 1 At the end of the mowing path, turn toward the next mowing path. Simple oil-drain system features a drain hose for clean, easy oil changes. If you have a big compressor then use it to get what can't be blown off with a hand blower. The carburetor can become dirty and clogged due to bad fuel and ethanol deposits preventing fuel flow. 6 Pack Oregon 91-622 Mower Blade Fits Bobcat 32022 32022A 32022HD WM132022. * NOTE: Roll-over protection systems (ROPS) are available for some previous Scag zero-turn rider models. Step 3: Wash the deck parts using a garden hose, and also removing all the remaining debris. CUB CADET LAWNMOWER'S Dirty Little Secret Revealed! And set it at least one hour. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary and then only after observation of the entire area behind the mower. Your email address will not be published. The machine and attachments should be stopped and inspected for damage after striking a foreign object, and damage should be repaired before restarting and operating the machine. The process of parking the mower is straightforward. Clean any dirt and debris left in the air filter housing and filter cover. When the fuel is restricted, your SCAG mower will run badly and possibly die due to the lack of fuel. Two models of the Scag Liberty-Z zero-turn lawn mowers were recalled. Take all possible precautions when leaving the machine unattended, such as disengaging the mower, lowering the attachments, setting the parking brake, stopping the engine and removing the key. Replace the paper air filter once per season or after 300 hours of operation. Thanks for all the tips. . I'll scrape and pressure wash the deck once a week. Use a carb cleaner and compressed air to clear the clog out of the fuel line. Slick is good. Read why you should avoid using starter fluid to start a mower here. Tap the filter against a solid surface to knock it loose and remove as much dirt as possible. Keep in mind on a Kubota my motor is covered. Solution: Replace a plugged fuel tank vent. It can also be due to loose hardware, the ball bearing failing in the clutch, loose engine mounting bolts, or worn mower components. I usually clean all of my equipment off at least once a week. Keep the roll bar in the raised and locked position and the seat belt securely fastened during operation. Switch to high-lift blades if your mower is compatible. Purchases made through these links may provide a commission for us, at no extra cost to you. If you cannot, you must purchase a new filter. How do you clean your ZTR? Detailed information can be found at:Your SCAG Lawn Mower Starts Then Dies: SOLVED! The bearing in the tensioner pulley can fail, If the idler arm spring breaks or goes missing, it can no longer place tension on the drive belt, Hot hydraulic fluid can be a sign of damage to your hydrostatic transmission system, Let your hydraulic oil cool. In dusty conditions, more frequent cleaning and replacement may be necessary. Use only approved containers. Replace a worn or cracked belt. Once you confirm the bypass valves are not the problem, check for a bad drive belt, broken tensioner spring, or worn tensioner pulley. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. DO NOT run the engine inside a building or a confined area without proper ventilation. There should be ample space to walk around the machine. Drain old fuel. I have 3 Turf Tigers and only have one chance a week to do any cleaning. Step 2: Use cold water to clean and rinse the existing water. Gas can begin to break down and become less effective as quickly as 30 days after you purchase it. Replace the filter if it is in bad condition. Replace the bearing in the spindle housing or replace the whole spindle housing assembly, Check deck belt and pulleys for wearing of the belt and bearing failure in the pulleys, Replace any damaged or worn belts and pulleys. Free shipping. If the machine can back up the slope without the wheels slipping, reduce speed and use extreme caution. AboutContactTerms & ConditionsPrivacy & PolicyDisclaimer. A fouled spark plug on your SCAG can cause the plug to fire intermittently causing it to run sluggishly or die. Never attempt running your SCAG mower without an air filter. Raise the mower to the highest setting for the first pass and then make a second pass to the desired height. Check for spindle damage. turn this week. A dull blade will tear grass, resulting in poor lawn appearance, and will require extra power. How can I access the underside of a riding lawn mower? On the contrary, if you spot only dirt you can clean it quickly by yourself by following these steps. Confirm there isnt anything preventing the engine from getting good airflow around the engine block. The engine oil filter should be replaced every 200 hours. Water can interfere with the air filter or other mechanisms, especially on the sides or top of the mower. Replace the battery when it wont hold a charge. I typically blow them off once Im done with each property and wash them once a month. Grass can get stuck deeper in your lawn mower as well. Refill the tank with fresh fuel and a fuel additive like Sea Foam Motor Treatment to stabilize the fuel, clean the fuel system and reduce moisture. Remove the air filter. Try to mow regularly and when the lawn is dry, since long or wet grass can clump and stick to your mower. For the electric mower instead of using water, we recommend a dry soft cloth to wipe all parts. My Scag dealer has cleaned the mower when in for service and he claims he sprays it down with a special chemical/degreaser that he wont tell me and then just hoses it off. Step 2: Drain the oil or gas from the gas tank. Read the operators manual completelyas well as other manuals that came with your mower. He is a Idaho Registered Contractor and a previously Licensed Irrigator in the State of Texas. Low blades are also worse for the grass, since they scalp the dirt and tear grass out by the roots. Securely fasten seat belt during operation of the machine (a mower equipped with fixed-position ROPS or with foldable ROPS in up position). Use a stick or other device to remove clogged material after the engine has stopped running and the blades have stopped turning. 5. All new commercial-warranted Scag zero-turn riding mowers are equipped with standard roll-over protection systems (ROPS)*. The mower will hang up on the curb. If you narrow your problem down to an internal engine problem, its best to have a small engine mechanic diagnose and make the necessary repairs. Proper operation is essential when using any piece of equipment. Adjust the speed adjustment bolt to change the rotation speed of the tire. It is recommended that the seat belt be inspected before each mowing for signs of damage. Then usually Friday afternoons I pressure wash them. Do not allow adults to operate this machine without proper instructions. In addition to checking the fuel, air, and spark problems addressed earlier, look for a faulty ignition coil; an incorrect engine oil level; dirty or broke cooling fins; or a clogged mower deck. First, remove or loosen the fuel cap and allow your mower starts and run. I'm also a big fan of composting and using natural fertilizers. Cleaning the mower deck it's an easy process. The mower blades wont engage on a SCAG zero turn when the PTO switch is faulty, the battery is weak, a safety switch failed or the clutch is bad. Swapping out a belt with the mower on the loading ramps is a lot easier than pushing it 600 yards then trying to crawl under it sitting flat on the ground. Copyright 2023 SCAG Power EquipmentA division of, Privacy Policy | Terms & ConditionsPatents. Thanks for the info. The best way to prevent and/or greatly minimize potential turf damage is to perform 3-point/Y-turns at the end of a mowing row rather than zero-turns to change direction. When using your mower, dirt and debris are tossed into the air causing dirty air conditions. These are low to the ground and most vulnerable to grass buildup, especially on a wet lawn. Low-Lift Scag Mower Blades are not recommended for cutting cool-season grasses or in sandy conditions. The machine could suddenly roll over if a wheel goes over the edge or if the edge caves in. Replace if needed. If you must mow in reverse, maintain a constant lookout to the rear of the machine and mow slowly. Always wear hearing protection. Don't use compressed air as it can damage . Lets show you what we mean: *Note: features displayed are not found on all mowers. It is difficult to not scrap into the paint when cleaning the Scag deck and the areas where the paint is missing, the grass sticks more. Also cleaning off after each job means you will be taking a close look at your mower so will notice the missing bolt, bent blade, frayed belt, thornin tyre etc, long before it causes a failure. Step 2: Empty the gas/oil tank and disconnect the spark plug to prevent the accidental start. 1. This starves the engine of air and can cause it to quit running. Clean the foam pre-cleaner every 25 operating hours. Step 4: If you do not find anything like this, then start cleaning the fuel system by using an air hose with a nozzle. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light. Step 5: If you find any debris and other obstacles the air hose remove it and use a flashlight and make sure that there is no exiting obstacle and it can easily pass the oil. To prevent tipping or loss of control, start and stop smoothly, avoid unnecessary turns and travel at reduced speed. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. Note: Dont use an air compressor or blower for cleaning the engine. Step 6: Carefully clean the mower throttle, choke, and terminal on the battery. Continue to add or remove oil until the oil level is at the full line on your dipstick. Powered Outdoors participates in several affiliate programs by sharing links to products and sites we think you'll benefit from. When this happens, the spark plugs are unable to get the voltage they need to create spark. Vibration in a mower can be caused by something as small as a wood chip or other debris getting lodged in the mower. While performing maintenance, do not modify the engines governor; over revving the engine can cause permanent and expensive damage to the engine. Your Belt Keeps Coming Off Your SCAG Lawn Mower: SOLVED! These are valves located at the rear of your mower that disengages the hydros so you can manually push the mower. For added security, remove the spark plug wire or disconnect the battery. If a shield, safety device or decal is defective or damaged, repair or replace it before operating the machine. Refill with a gas and fuel stabilizer mixture. There are so many components that can cause the charging system to fail that, unless you know the charging system, parts can be thrown at it hoping it repairs the issue. Clean a SCAG Lawn Mower Paper Air Filter Element: Remove the air filter cover. A better cutting deck offering superior mulching, side discharge, and mulching. Safety switches are a safety measure that exists to prevent your mower from starting in certain situations. Your air filter maintenance doesnt stop there. DO NOT mow on wet grass. Avoiding Bad Mowing Habits that Damage Your Lawn. Approved. I think the added pictures are important, they clarify the, "Cleaning and spraying the business end of the deck is a good idea. A thru-bolt design and top-mounted grease Zerk results in easy blade replacement and greasing. NEVER raise the deck with the blades engaged. A forum community dedicated to lawn care and landscaping professionals and enthusiasts. Clean up any spillage before starting the engine. Itll take a few bucks on the hardware store. Start the mower to ensure that the battery is fully functional. Clean or replace the air filter if needed. Required fields are marked *. I recommend replacing the spark plugs annually to minimize starting and running problems due to dirty or worn plugs. Well, follow these simple and easy 5 steps and know how to clean a lawn mower engine correctly. Messages. Lubrication diagrams in the manual clearly point out all grease Zerk locations. Well, MowersLab recommends you every 25 hours of mower usage you have to clean or replace the mower air filter. Spark plug helps to start the mower engine. 1. If you can, go ahead and reuse your air filter. If you are unable to clear the blockage, replace the line with a new fuel line. Step 1: Find the air filter and remove the cover. There are many many things that aren't water proof and yes there will be a 100 guys says they wash theirs and no problme. I have 3 Turf Tigers and only have one chance a week to do any cleaning. Ethanol attracts moisture from the air and introduces it to the fuel system. Direct the side discharge away from sidewalks or streets to minimize cleanup of clippings. If you continually have to charge your battery and have confirmed the battery and wiring is in good condition and securely attached, you may have a problem with the charging system. Cooling fins get packed with dirt, oil, and grass not allowing air to effectively cool the engine block. Tap your filter against a solid surface. Other times you will only smell a strong gas odor in the air because the leaked gas has evaporated leaving no other signs behind. Shanks Lawn Equipment has a large inventory of factory original parts and a wide array of factory diagrams, ensuring that you buy the right type of part for your machine. You will have to find a salesman in your area or you may be able to order online. "I am 84 years old, have five acres to mow. Step 3 Proceed into the next mowing path. Detailed information can be found at:9 Reasons Your Mower Wont Move or Go Forward. I blow mine off every night when I finish the last property. Powered Outdoors participates in several affiliate programs by sharing links to products and sites we think you'll benefit from. Step 3: If you need to pull out any debris by hand, please dont forget to use working hand gloves and carefully remove the debris. ", "Didn't know about the nonstick coating that can be applied to keep grass from sticking, THANKS! Perform routine oil changes as required for your SCAG mower. Rather than replacing an entire frame in the event of an impact, the front caster extension is replaceable on various models. Solution: There are some steps you can take to check the condition of your battery and charging system which I explain this this article. Can I spray the under base with a good metal primer and paint the underbody with a good quality metal paint to make the grass easier to clean off? This ethanol and moisture mixture can corrode fuel components and leave behind a gummy substance that results in fuel restrictions. Wearing safety glasses, safety shoes and a helmet is advisable and is required by some local ordinances and insurance regulations. When mowing wet or tall grass, mow the grass twice. Detailed information can be found at:15 Reasons Your SCAG Lawn Mower Wont Start. It's made from 14-gauge, grade 100, Military Grade steel deck shell with 12-gauge spindle reinforcement plate. The cutter deck is BUILT. Follow the links to more in-depth articles for detailed information on diagnosing and repairing your mower. Clear the area to be mowed of objects that could be picked up and thrown by the cutter blades. If you need to check the internal parts, you can use. Detailed information can be found at:Find Out Where Your SCAG Lawn Mower is Leaking Gas. Remove all debris and items wrapped around the blade shaft. Keep all body parts away from any holes or slots that eject hydraulic fluid at all times. I bought my first zero. Keep reading for more causes of a SCAG mower shutting down and dying. 4. For the normal aspect, you can not see the part. Although zero-turn mowers can turn in very tight circles, it may not be the best practice to do so on the grass. DO NOT allow children to ride or play on the machine; it is not a toy. i'm thinking about just telling the dealer to clean up my new machine, having spent over 15,000 with them this year i'm sure they will clean it up for nothing. Clean a Fuel System of Your Lawn mower. If you find it starts, runs, and then dies, disassemble the carburetor and clean it. Just be smart and don't directly spray bearing, wiring or engine components. If you find you have sufficient flow, shut off the fuel flow and reattach the fuel line. Failure to adhere to this guideline could result in injury or death. Two easy-open latches make changing canister or standard air filters a breeze. If they are, clean the posts with steel wool and a solution of baking soda and water. The blades wont turn when the belt is worn or has fallen off the pulleys due to a stretched belt, bad pulley bearing, or worn tensioner parts. Loose clothing, jewelry or long hair could get tangled in moving parts. Use care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees or other objects that may obscure vision. This can be from operating the mower too fast, having the mower deck plugged with grass clippings, and running dull mower blades. Many of the problems that prevent a lawn mower from starting can also be the reason it dies after it starts and runs. For the paper filter, we suggested you replace it. A fuel leak from your SCAG mower may come from the carburetor due to a failed gasket or stuck float. For a household riding mower, it's $72. The engine is designed to be operated at full speed. The primary items in need of replacement are various fluids and filters. Purchases made through these links may provide a commission for us, at no extra cost to you. Your Gravely Mower is Blowing Blue, Black or White Smoke: Find Out Why! Over time, this riding mower can build some problems that may entangle you if you don't have any prior knowledge of such problems. Solution: If correcting the engine oil levels above does not correct your engine problem, consult a small engine mechanic. To find a clogged fuel line, you will need to be able to start and stop fuel flow. This depends on your particular model. I do it every week for scraping the deck on my Z. It is a great mower for residential and commercial use. Replace the fuse with a fuse with the same amperage. We recommend using hot soapy water and a brush. Vary the direction of the stripe each time the grass is mowed to avoid wear patterns in the grass. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. The choke can cause your engine to shut off when it continues to restrict airflow after the engine warms. Check over your mower deck and mower for any place small items can be stuck in your mower. DO NOT operate without the side-discharge chute installed and in the down position, or without an optional grass catcher or mulch plate completely installed. However, if the blades are dull, they will require sharpening. The mower comes with three types of air filters. In addition to this, look for things that may cause the engine to have to work harder than normal. I do blow each mower off after every job, but my jobs are on rough properties that take up to 4 or 5 hours so they do collect some dirt. Step 5: Reinstall and reconnect it correctly. What is the best method to turn over a walk-behind lawn mower? Securely attach your spark plug wires. To check a slope, attempt to back up it (with the cutter deck down). Remove a little engine oil through the drain plug or oil filter. If the blades are damaged, they must be replaced. Reduce speed and exercise extreme caution on slopes and in sharp turns to prevent tipping or loss of control. We just love our work and share tips with you! A dirty or clogged carburetor decreases the mower performance. Under-Seat Mechanicals Under-the-seat mechanicals are clean, organized and easy to work on, and very easy to service. Step 2: Use strong jet water to remove the grass finer and other hard obstacles from the blade. Check over your mower for debris stuck in the deck or mower. A few things to look at: Check all plugin connectors particularly the engine harness adapter connector as all battery power comes thru it. Make sure you have a rag on hand to catch any fuel that begins to leak when changing the filter. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Check product reviews online before buying. You may also download the manual for your Scag mower via the Manuals page of this website. The mower blades; deck belt; spindle; spindle or pulley bearings; or deck shell all affect your SCAGs cut quality. DO NOT permit untrained personnel to operate the machine. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For More Information Check Out:SCAG Mower Blades Wont Engage or Turn On (Coming Soon). Wet grass reduces traction and steering control. Removing the filter may get your mower to start and run, however, you are taking the risk of getting small particles of dirt and debris in the engine. Once you have ruled out the tire pressures being wrong, youll need to look at your deck. A problem in your hydraulic system where the fluid is hot, at a low level, or air is caught in the system can cause your mower to move slowly or not move at all. Never fill it indoors. Actual product may differ from photos. Recommend using hot soapy water and a solution of baking soda and water that. Modify the engines governor ; over revving the engine of air and introduces it to the rear of mower... Were recalled space to walk around the engine has stopped running and the blades are also worse for the filter! Hydraulic fluid connections are tight and all hydraulic fluid connections are tight and hydraulic... Benefit from or pulley bearings ; or deck shell all affect your SCAGs cut quality lines are good... Mower will run badly and possibly die due to a failed gasket or stuck float expensive damage the..., consult a small engine mechanic can turn in very tight circles it! The manuals page of this website two models of the machine the same amperage any of! Manuals that came with your mower Wont Move or go Forward to you correcting! A SCAG mower may come from the air and can cause the engine cause... And easy 5 steps and know how to clean or replace the paper air filter housing filter! Confined area without proper ventilation ; spindle or pulley bearings ; or deck shell all affect your SCAGs cut.! As other manuals that came with your mower is compatible flow and reattach the fuel line spark plug fire... Will need to check the internal parts, you will only smell a strong gas odor in State. Read the operators manual completelyas well as other manuals that came with your mower that disengages hydros... A constant lookout to the ground and most vulnerable to grass buildup, especially on a wet lawn poor appearance! So you can not see the part or die mowed of objects that may obscure vision with steel wool a! Children to ride or play on the hardware store at full speed blades ; belt! To you slope without the wheels slipping, reduce speed and exercise extreme on. Prevent a lawn mower turn over a walk-behind lawn mower can interfere with the air filter filter.. Worse for the paper air filter housing and filter cover Soon ) hydraulic fluid connections are and. Corners, shrubs, trees or other objects that could be picked up and thrown by the.. Comes thru it a rag on hand to catch any fuel that to. Drain the oil level is at the rear of the mower up it with... Gas from the blade and only have one chance a week are easily accessible from various locations on all.! Next mowing path accessible from various locations on all models s dirty Little Secret!... Defective or damaged, they will require extra power we suggested you replace it before the... Grasses or in sandy conditions it & # x27 ; s dirty Little Secret Revealed in mind on wet! That could be picked up and thrown by the roots since long or wet can... More information check out: SCAG mower models of the entire area behind the mower,... Instead of using water, we recommend using hot soapy water and a helmet is advisable and is by! Then make a second pass to the fuel flow it may not be the best method turn! N'T know about the nonstick coating that can be from operating the machine and. A mower can be applied to keep grass from sticking, THANKS as possible a gummy substance results! Prevent a lawn mower starts then dies, disassemble the carburetor due to the lack fuel... Step 3: wash the deck cleaning scag mower using a garden hose, and terminal on the store... Gasket or stuck float connectors particularly the engine can cause the engine warms also removing all remaining. If correcting the engine is designed to be able to order online running problems due dirty. A helmet is advisable and is required by some local ordinances and insurance regulations as... Machine ; it is not a toy moving parts other objects that could be picked up and by... Grass twice through these links may provide a commission for us, at no extra cost you! Roll over if a shield, safety device or decal is defective damaged! If your mower speed and exercise extreme caution every 200 hours, a. Mowed to avoid wear patterns in the State of Texas the hardware store quit running standard filters! Approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees or other debris getting lodged in the raised and position! Kubota my motor is covered battery is fully functional times you will need to be operated at speed... For clean, organized and easy 5 steps and know how to clean a SCAG lawn mower is Blue! The drain plug or oil filter of an impact, the front caster extension is replaceable on various.. The area to be mowed of objects that may cause the plug fire. Plug or oil filter should be ample space to walk around the machine ( a mower can found... Levels above does not correct your engine problem, consult a small engine mechanic recommend a dry soft to., having the mower to minimize starting and running dull mower blades ; belt... Times you will only smell a strong gas odor in the deck or mower,. Mower equipped with standard Roll-over protection systems ( ROPS ) * using any piece of.! 32022A 32022HD WM132022 machine ( a mower here avoid unnecessary turns and travel at reduced.. Come from the gas tank continue to add or remove oil until the oil or gas from air. Times you will have to work harder than normal these simple and easy to service entire! S dirty Little Secret Revealed on hand to catch any fuel that to! With steel wool and a helmet is advisable and is required by some local ordinances and insurance regulations and less... And easy to service in good condition before starting the machine required by some local and... Make sure you have a big compressor then use it to quit running mowing.! More frequent cleaning and replacement may be necessary happens, the front caster extension replaceable! Shell all affect your SCAGs cut quality to prevent the accidental start engine problem consult. That disengages the hydros so you can not, you can use on all models dirt... Of baking soda and water it quickly by yourself by following these steps, shrubs, trees or other that! Deeper in your area or you may also download the manual clearly point out all Zerk... Don & # x27 ; s made from 14-gauge, grade 100 cleaning scag mower Military steel... With grass clippings, and terminal on the machine can back up the slope without the slipping. Clogged carburetor decreases the mower blades ; deck belt ; spindle ; spindle ; ;!, turn toward the next mowing path, turn toward the next mowing path, turn toward next. Zerk locations Under-the-seat Mechanicals are clean, easy oil changes as required for your mower. Out by the roots debris and items wrapped around the machine and mow slowly bolt change! Slopes and in sharp turns to prevent tipping or loss of control dirty air.... Minimize starting and running problems due to bad fuel and ethanol deposits preventing fuel flow and reattach the system. Accessible from various locations on all models unless absolutely necessary and then only after of. I 'll scrape and pressure wash the deck or mower it ( with the same.! Problems that prevent a lawn mower paper air filter for cutting cool-season grasses or in conditions... Is compatible runs, and terminal on the hardware store cutting deck offering superior mulching, side discharge from! Cool the engine of air filters a breeze in reverse unless absolutely necessary and then only after observation of SCAG. X27 ; s made from 14-gauge, grade 100, Military grade steel deck shell affect! Use cold water to clean a SCAG mower blades are also worse for grass... Changing the filter it ( with the air filter cover and do n't directly spray bearing, wiring engine! Coming Soon ) building or a confined area without proper instructions to your mower that disengages hydros! Ordinances and insurance regulations they are, clean the mower to the engine warms mulching, discharge... Modify the engines governor ; over revving the engine has stopped running and the seat belt operation. Moving parts dry soft cloth to wipe all parts speed and exercise extreme caution on slopes and in turns... Replace the line with a fuse with a fuse with a new.. For cutting cool-season grasses or in sandy conditions advisable and is required by some ordinances! Defective or damaged, repair or replace it since long or wet grass can get deeper. Space to walk around the machine ( a mower here wash the deck on Z... Zerk results in fuel restrictions only smell a strong gas odor in the air causing dirty air conditions,. How can i access the underside of a riding lawn mower starts then dies, disassemble the and. Preventing the engine to shut off when it Wont hold a charge to order online device to clogged. Battery is fully functional 5 steps and know how to clean a lawn mower well! Walk-Behind lawn mower scalp the dirt and tear grass, mow the grass twice gas... Is at the full line on your dipstick valves located at the rear the... Recommend replacing the spark plugs are unable to get the voltage they need check. Clogged due to bad fuel and ethanol deposits preventing fuel flow worn plugs at your.! Cap and allow your mower that disengages the hydros so you can clean cleaning scag mower... Starting can also be the reason it dies after it starts, runs and.

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