Replace the clutch. The owner/user can prevent and is responsible for accidents or injuries occurring to themselves, other people or property. However, sometimes they use water for cleaning the machine and damage the mower engine. NEVER leave the machine running unattended. Stop the fuel flow. When you find the mower starts to sputter and shut off after a while, you may have a clogged fuel tank vent. Anthony "TC" Williams is a Professional Landscaper in Idaho. Use a slow travel speed for trimming purposes. Having a clean mower is part of general maintenance in order to inspect for busted welds or any other deck damage. If the mower is driven on public roads, it must comply with state and local ordinances as well as SAE J137 and/or ANSI/ASAE S279 requirements. While smoke coming from your SCAG mower can indicate you have a significant problem with your mower, it may also not be too bad. Vary the direction of the stripe each time the grass is mowed to avoid wear patterns in the grass. Sooo nice verses that other orange thing I use to use. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary and then only after observation of the entire area behind the mower. It will get the grime out of the hard to reach areas, that's why people use it on motorcycles. 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. Each week I jack them up with the mow jack clean under the deck and on top and here's the twenty year old secret my Dad used, I spray the deck with Pam cooking spray after it is clean. Spray carburetor cleaner into the line to help loosen the blockage. Replace a worn or cracked belt. Scag Power Equipment is represented across the globe by a network of authorized dealers. Repeat as necessary. . Grass can get stuck deeper in your lawn mower as well. Before you check anything on your SCAG mower, first check to drive bypass valves are not the cause of your moving problem. Remove the belt guards at the top of the mower occasionally and blow away grass with a leaf blower or air compressor. Lubrication diagrams in the manual clearly point out all grease Zerk locations. The degreaser sounds alot better of an idea and will probably not get the I want to kill you look from my employees. When mowing wet or tall grass, mow the grass twice. Summer Lawn Dormancy: What Causes it, and How Can You Prevent It? I think the added pictures are important, they clarify the, "Cleaning and spraying the business end of the deck is a good idea. The heat can be so hot, your internal engine parts will start to melt. The EVZ gives more people the chance to see why Scag machines are Simply the Best. Dont allow your mower to idle for long periods of time. Most areas that involve some metal to metal contact will require attention. These are more serious problems that require a small engine mechanic to perform tests to accurately diagnose and perform necessary repairs. Safety switches are a safety measure that exists to prevent your mower from starting in certain situations. Owners should change the hydraulic oil, the hydraulic oil filter, and the fuel filter at least once a year or after 500 hours of operation. Remove the air filter. Owners should consult their manual for a diagram of which lubricant to apply to which area. 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. Hold the filter up to a light source to check if you can see light shine through the filter. Remove any debris around your engine and engine shroud. Cold galvanization compound is a highly water resistant treatment for unpainted metal surfaces. I'll scrape and pressure wash the deck once a week. SCAG mower runs rough To keep your mower running at its best, regularly clean your mower, check the engine oil and hydraulic oil, clean the air filter, sharpen the blades and scrape the deck. Also, it helps to better maintain your mower. Actual product may differ from photos. Easy Access to Batteries Batteries are easily accessible from various locations on all models. Cleaning the lawn mower is not a hard or annoying task, its tricky work. Wet the underside of the deck if the grass is difficult to scrape off. Raise the mower to the highest setting for the first pass and then make a second pass to the desired height. Be sure the interlock switches are functioning correctly. Step 6: Carefully clean the mower throttle, choke, and terminal on the battery. Well, in this guide we are going to show you a step-by-step process of how to clean your mower the right way. References I usually clean all of my equipment off at least once a week. Allow extra distance to stop. A hinged floor plate for easy access to the cutter-deck mechanisms for cleaning, etc., means quick maintenance. Most people know problems can develop when your engine oil becomes too low, but dont know you can also have problems if there is too much oil in the crankcase. First, park your mower on a level surface and set the parking brake. Clean all components making up the carburetor. Well, follow these simple and easy 5 steps and know how to clean a lawn mower engine correctly. Switch to high-lift blades if your mower is compatible. Check tire pressures and keep them filled to the manufacturers spec. Because gasoline begins to break down rather quickly, always purchase fresh gas and use it within 30 days. Engine bolts are used to reduce the vibration of the mower when the engine is running, Secure engine bolts and replace any missing bolts. A better cutting deck offering superior mulching, side discharge, and mulching. Perform routine oil changes as required for your SCAG mower. The Scag SFC30 Walk behind Mower features a 30 inch Cutter deck. One of the main reasons you invested in your SCAG mower is for its nice cut. This is Why Your Shindaiwa String Trimmer Runs Rough: SOLVED! 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. Once that is confirmed, remove your air filter and spray carburetor cleaner into the air intake. You don't want to knock any dirt into the air intake. And you think its unnecessary to clean it. If you found it is helpful for your friend and other family member dont forget to share. Avoid mowing in wet conditions as wet grass clumps and sticks to your mower deck. 6 Pack Oregon 91-622 Mower Blade Fits Bobcat 32022 32022A 32022HD WM132022. When you find the charging system isnt working right, I highly recommend having an experienced mechanic diagnose and repair the problem. I buy a commercial degreaser from Malco and it works great. If you have an air hose, use it again to speed up the drying process. ), open flames and sparks away from the fuel tank and fuel container. I've used Pam, wd40, oil or whatever I could spray under deckafter 5 minutes it's gone. Hazard control and accident prevention are dependent upon the awareness, concern, prudence and proper training of the personnel involved in the operation, transport, maintenance and storage of the equipment. Several items can affect your SCAG mowers steering including incorrect tire pressures and worn steering dampers. Something as simple as a low tire will give you a bad cut because the deck will no longer sit level. NEVER tow on slopes. Step 4: Rinse the water and dry the air filter. Spray the underside with non-stick cooking spray, graphite or silicone lubricant, or a rust protectant to coat your mower. A few things to look at: Check all plugin connectors particularly the engine harness adapter connector as all battery power comes thru it. Too much engine oil in your SCAG lawn mower can cause it to shut down. Tap your filter against a solid surface. Step 1: Separate all the parts of the carburetor and put them in a plastic bag with a carburetor cleaner. For those using degreasers, how does the paint hold up to using it over time? Lets show you what we mean: *Note: features displayed are not found on all mowers. Replace the clogged vent. Follow SCAGs procedures for changing the hydraulic fluid and bleeding air from the system as outlined in your owners manual. I'm a lawn mowing expert and gardening enthusiast. Make sure the belt is securely around the pulleys. Solution: Remove and check the air filters condition by following these steps: Clean a SCAG Lawn Mower Paper Air Filter Element: The fuel filter is used to strain fuel as it comes out of the fuel tank to keep dirt out of the fuel system. Sep 7, 2012. A choke is used for cold starts. Did you enjoy our step-by-step guide on how to clean your mower? Step 1: Remove the spark plug and set it into the socket Electrode ends up. The drive-release arms must be in the operating position. Varnish and deposits left behind by old gas can interfere with the carburetors function. Some people swear by it, but others find that grass sticks even more to this coat. Tip Thanks for the info. I scrape the deck when needed. Check product reviews online before buying. In addition to a fouled plug, a spark plug can cause running problems when it is not properly gapped, it is damaged, or the spark plug wire isnt securely connected. Read more about why I choose to use Sea Foam in Use Sea Foam Fuel Additive in a Lawn Mower to Stabilize Your Fuel. If after performing these tests, you find you have a bad battery, replace your battery. Messages. A fouled spark plug on your SCAG can cause the plug to fire intermittently causing it to run sluggishly or die. This can cause significant engine damage resulting in a large repair expense. Oftentimes, you notice you have a fuel leak when you see a small puddle on the ground. 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. 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. Gas Tank Leak. Stay away from fuels with higher ethanol contents than this like those sold as E15, E30, or E85. The choke reduces the amount of air the engine receives. Follow all safety instructions provided in your equipment operators manual prior to diagnosing, repairing, or operating. He is the President and Founder of Aqua Conservation Landscape & Irrigation, an Idaho Registered Landscape Business Entity. These are valves located at the rear of your mower that disengages the hydros so you can manually push the mower. Purchases made through these links may provide a commission for us, at no extra cost to you. DO NOT use your hand to dislodge the clogged discharge chute. Beware of overhead obstructions (low limbs, etc. Throw that information away cause somewhere along the way it will bite you. By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube. My Z weighs roughly 650 lbs, and I can do it myself easily. Inspecting the battery in a Scag mower requires removing the battery cell cap to inspect the electrolyte level, so this step should be done carefully; wear eye protection and gloves while working on the battery and do not perform this procedure near any open flames. Raise the deck and travel backwards over the curb at a 45-degree angle. Ultimately it's whatever works best for you. Failure to do so could cause serious injury or loss of life. If you are in the Waterfall PA or Wells Tannery PA, area please stop by to visit with an expert or just to say hi. To the side, from front to back, or back to front? The carburetor can collect a buildup of substances remaining from old gas that can cause blockages or parts failures resulting in a leak, Clean the carburetor and replace any damaged parts, Filter can become soft and degrade from old fuel, The pump can wear and deteriorate over time and may begin leaking at the seams, A poly tank can leak at the seams of the tank, Shut-off valves are prone to leaking with time. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. If it is below this amount, fill it with distilled water until the battery is at this level. Replace a gas cap that no longer allows the fuel tank to vent. Drain the fuel tank and fill it with fresh fuel. Disengage power to the cutter deck before crossing roads, walks or gravel drives. Select models feature a rear engine guard like shown. Wear heavy gloves while working around the blades; if inspecting the blades will not be a part of the maintenance, sheathe the blades while you work on the machine. I always get my backpack blowers and blow them off clean then I run the mowers for about a minute or so with the blades on to air dry the spindles. Just had to clean all the connectors on my 2008 Tiger Cub to include the connectors on the PTO switch and key switch. The potential exposure of the seat belt to severe environmental conditions make it crucial to inspect the seat-belt system regularly. Internal engine problems can have a detrimental effect on your mower if they are not caught soon enough and fixed. This might be a good choice in wet climates, but dirt and debris may still wear it down much sooner than the label suggests. Disengage power to the cutter deck before backing up. When you dont have enough oil to keep the internal engine parts sufficiently lubricated, friction starts to build creating heat. It's usually best to empty the gas tank before you begin. Other more serious items to look for are a low engine oil level or internal engine problems. Bring to a small engine repair shop to inspect engine damage. Your email address will not be published. If you are unable to clear the blockage, replace the line with a new fuel line. Blow off grass with an air hose. Remove the carburetor to clean it. There is no roll-over protection when the roll bar is in the down position. Install the air filter and reinstall the cap on the filter housing. Adjust the speed adjustment bolt to change the rotation speed of the tire. Replace the ignition coil if you find there is a break. If you have a big compressor then use it to get what can't be blown off with a hand blower. 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. Gas can begin to break down and become less effective as quickly as 30 days after you purchase it. What Causes Gas to Get in Oil in Lawn Mower? Other times you will only smell a strong gas odor in the air because the leaked gas has evaporated leaving no other signs behind. In addition to this, look for things that may cause the engine to have to work harder than normal. Rather than replacing an entire frame in the event of an impact, the front caster extension is replaceable on various models. ALWAYS wear seat belt when roll bar is in the up position. Continue to add or remove oil until the oil level is at the full line on your dipstick. Step 7: Refill the fuel tank and connect the spark plug. If you cannot, you must purchase a new filter. Do not cut grass too short (cut off 1/3 or less of existing grass for best results). Itll take a few bucks on the hardware store. Check out This is the Type of Gas SCAG Lawn Mowers Use for more information. Make sure this arrow is pointed in the direction of the mowers fuel flow. Use a carb cleaner and compressed air to clear the clog out of the fuel line. Replace the line if necessary. Scag also advises that all maintenance on the hydraulic system be performed by an authorized Scag dealer. Contact a small engine mechanic when this doesnt correct your problem. So the time gained from quick turning and faster ground speed while mowing is more than lost when it comes to deck cleaning time unfortunately. A fuel leak from your SCAG mower may come from the carburetor due to a failed gasket or stuck float. 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. Use a fuel additive like Sea Foam to stabilize the fuel and assist with cleaning the fuel system. Damaged and unbalanced blades can send a vibration through your mower. Replace broken fins and clean the cooling fins. In dusty conditions, more frequent cleaning and replacement may be necessary. When the vents get plugged, the fuel tank will cause fuel restrictions. I get my guys on a slow day to spend a few hours with scrub brushes soap powder and tooth brushes. Step 1: Turn off the mower and make sure all the moving parts are stopped and the engine is cold before starting the operation. When mowing wet or tall grass, mow the grass twice. This starves the engine of air and can cause it to quit running. However, if the blades are dull, they will require sharpening. On its website, The Mower Shop of Fishers, Indiana, says the minimum fee for repairing a household walk-behind mower at its location is $36. Step 4: If you do not find anything like this, then start cleaning the fuel system by using an air hose with a nozzle. Remove the caps and check the electrolyte level. Raise the mower to the highest setting for the first pass and then make a second pass to the desired height. I have 3 Turf Tigers and only have one chance a week to do any cleaning. Do this using the fuel shut-off valve. I blow mine off every night when I finish the last property. Then, I have a little 1700 psi electric pressure washer I use to clean it off about once a week. Your mower requires a specific amount of engine oil in the crankcase for the engine to run at its best. Every few weeks I'll hose the dust/ mud/ grass off of it. Find a buddy and each of you lift on one of the front caster wheels to get the mower in mid air, then slide the tip of sawhorse under it where the board sticks out. I have been mowing with a 54 inch lawn tractor. Step 2: Clean the dust around the air filter. Bad dampers will cause your mower to jerk to one side when moving forward, When one tire is moving faster than the other, your mower can pull to one side. Test the battery and place it on a charger if the reading is less than 12.7 volts for a 12-volt battery. Be alert and turn the machine off if a child enters the area. Disclaimer | Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy | About Us | Contact Us, This is the Type of Gas SCAG Lawn Mowers Use, Use Sea Foam Fuel Additive in a Lawn Mower to Stabilize Your Fuel, avoid using starter fluid to start a mower here, check the condition of your battery and charging system which I explain this this article, Common SCAG Lawn Mower Problems & Solutions. Pull the two lock pins out of the outside of the bar. 4. Step 3: Inspect the gas tank and if you spot any little hole or damage then dont attempt to repair or clean it. Ddon't ever wash a mower simply blow em off. I blow mine off every couple of lawns if the grass is still wet and its early in the morning. Keep hands and feet away from cutter blades and moving parts. If the blades are damaged, they must be replaced. 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? Replace a stretch mower deck belt. Replace if needed. The air filter must be checked and cleaned regularly or it may become so plugged that sufficient air isnt able to pass through the filter. Next, locate the blade bolts and use a wrench to loosen them. When you can get to a store, buy a graphite, silicone, or Teflon spray, and apply it to the underside. Replace if needed. DO NOT contact any overhead object with the roll bar. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. 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. Visit our Lawn Striping page to learn more about how to create great-looking lawn-stripe patterns in your lawn. Step #2: Check The Air Filter Check the mower air filter and ensure that the filter is completely free of dirt and debris. Use a fuel additive like. Step 3 Proceed into the next mowing path. Step 5:Using an air compressor or a blower with a bristle brush to clean the radiator cooling fans, the flywheel fins. * NOTE: Roll-over protection systems (ROPS) are available for some previous Scag zero-turn rider models. Clean the foam pre-cleaner every 25 operating hours. In addition to LLD cleaning, a cover sheet may be used as a physical barrier between the keyboard/console and the operator. Remove all debris and items wrapped around the blade shaft. Replace the paper air filter once per season or after 300 hours of operation. Even products marketed for lawn mowers often due a poor job of long-term protection. The mower comes with three types of air filters. Before performing any maintenance on any machine, ensure that the machine is not running. DO NOT wear loose-fitting clothing. It will force the small pieces of debris into the inaccessible parts of the engine. Keep others off the tractor (only one person at a time). Step 2: Empty the gas/oil tank and disconnect the spark plug to prevent the accidental start. For best results, use an air hose with a nozzle or wand to blow away loose grass after scraping. AboutContactTerms & ConditionsPrivacy & PolicyDisclaimer. This is an alternative fuel made of corn or other high-starch plants. Disengage power to the attachments when transporting or when not in use. Replace the fuse with a fuse with the same amperage. Even if you choose the right gas for your SCAG mower, you must properly store and use that gas timely. How To Clean Lawn Mower (Step-by-Step Guide), How to Sharpen a Reel Mower Step-by-Step Guide, Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action Review: 2022, 4 Signs that Indicate Your Lawn Mower Is Low on Oil. Heres the bad news: If your engine shuts down because of a lack of engine oil, chances are significant damage was done. DO NOT add fuel to a running or hot engine. Never fuel indoors or in enclosed trailers. Consult a professional if you dont have the skills, or knowledge or are not in the condition to perform the repair safely. This includes checking for plugged or broken cooling fins. Over time, this riding mower can build some problems that may entangle you if you don't have any prior knowledge of such problems. If you are unsure how to perform diagnostics and repairs on your SCAG lawn mower safely, its best to have a professional complete the repairs. Keep children out of the mowing area and in the watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator. A Scag riding mower has four tie-down points for additional stability. Make sure all hydraulic fluid connections are tight and all hydraulic hoses and lines are in good condition before starting the machine. If you find the tip of your spark plug is very dark, has a burnt electrode, or is damaged, replace your spark plug. Replaces: Carlisle 30-43790, Wright Mfg. You can also use an oil evacuator or turkey baster to suck oil through the engine oil fill area. Solution: If correcting the engine oil levels above does not correct your engine problem, consult a small engine mechanic. Securely attach your spark plug wires. How do you clean your ZTR? Just be smart and don't directly spray bearing, wiring or engine components. This post may include affiliate links. However, caution must be used when traveling on slopes, especially when the grass is wet. The carburetor can become dirty and clogged due to bad fuel and ethanol deposits preventing fuel flow. Every other year I sandblast and paint the deck. Avoiding Bad Mowing Habits that Damage Your Lawn. What method do you use? These are low to the ground and most vulnerable to grass buildup, especially on a wet lawn. Solution: Clean your spark plug tip. The discharge chute must not be removed and must be kept in the lowest position to deflect grass clippings and thrown objects downward. Stop running the mower once you see smoke and try to find the cause. The choke can cause your engine to shut off when it continues to restrict airflow after the engine warms. Any or all parts of the ROPS MUST NOT be removed. Ensure your heat shield is attached securely. If you find anything, then bring out the air filter and clean it. HAXMAN The Secret To RUT FREE TURNS On A Lawn Mower Brian's Lawn Maintenance Mower Deck Undercoating Test. Solution: Identify a bad ignition coil using an ohmmeter to check for a break in continuity. Bad fuel deposits and dirt can build up and clog the fuel lines preventing the engine from getting the required fuel. 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. Exhaust fumes are hazardous and contain carbon monoxide which can cause brain injury and death. Operate the engine at full throttle for best cutting. Step 1: Park the Mower. If a mechanism becomes clogged, stop the engine before cleaning. Make sure you are running your SCAG at a high engine speed. Remove any dirt remaining in the housing with a dry clean cloth. If the operator(s) or mechanic(s) cannot read English or Spanish, it is the owners responsibility to explain the contents of the owners manual to them. While SCAG manufactures top-of-the-line lawn mowers, just like any other brand mower, they will develop problems over time. Come join the discussion about performance, modifications, classifieds, troubleshooting, maintenance, and more! To do the job correctly you need a garden hose reel, engine degreaser (Remove the excess grease), cold water, and brush. Scag dealers are your best source for obtaining timely sales assistance, reliable technical service, as well as Genuine Scag Parts. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Expert Tip: Please dont run your mower without an air filter. Refill with a gas and fuel stabilizer mixture. When the crankshaft and rod have to push through this extra oil, the engine can overheat and die. Note: Dont use an air compressor or blower for cleaning the engine. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/24\/Stop-Grass-Buildup-Under-Any-Lawn-Mower-Deck-Step-1-Version-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Stop-Grass-Buildup-Under-Any-Lawn-Mower-Deck-Step-1-Version-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/24\/Stop-Grass-Buildup-Under-Any-Lawn-Mower-Deck-Step-1-Version-5.jpg\/aid687408-v4-728px-Stop-Grass-Buildup-Under-Any-Lawn-Mower-Deck-Step-1-Version-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"