How Does Self Propelled Mower Work
Self-propelled mowers are some of the a-must-own products at home. They perform a critical role in landscaping and keeping the compound clean. While most people know how to use them with a lot of experience, others do have a challenge with it. In most instances, almost half of the world’s population does not know how a self-propelled mower works. A large number of them have never even seen one in action.
It is against the backdrop of this challenge that we came up with this article to guide you on the operation. The document has all information you need for running the machine. Read on for more.
How does a self-propelled mower work?
There are a few things to check before using the lawn mower. Check the following items as you intend to cut the grass:
The gas level and its quality
Ensure that the gas tank has enough fuel. It should also be fresh and of the best quality. When you park the mower for a long, the gas in the tank wears out and loses quality with time. It can damage the engine the moment you use it.
If it has been in the tank for more than two months, drain it away and replace it with a new one. Using a half-empty gas tank can lead to interruptions as it may run dry in the middle of the task.
The oil level and its quality
Just like fuel, oil also needs some special consideration. Check the level by using a dipstick. Pull it out from the compartment, wipe using a towel, and dip it into the oil tank. Remove it again to check on the amount present. If your model has a small glass window, you can peep through the same to find out how much is in there.
Check on the quality. Most manufacturers provide a precise timeline for changing the oil. It usually depends on the amount of work done, or a specific period, whichever comes first. Do not exceed the two conditions because you may damage your engine.
Find the recommended type of oil for replacement. However, if it is fresh, top up with the new one to the desired levels.
The blades
Blades undergo a lot of stress from the work it performs. Sometimes, it can bend, break, and go blunt. Using such cutters will result in waste. Their effectiveness reduces, and too much effort goes into cutting the grass. The direct outcome is that you waste a lot of fuel.
Sharp blades hasten the process because it faces less resistance under the grass. You complete your tasks in the shortest time possible and with fewer resources.
Start the engine
A series of activities here. Locate the primer bulb and depress it. Do it a few times to help get the fuel to the engine. Sometimes, it stays dry, especially when the mower has been inactive for a long. The primer bulb helps in priming it in readiness for ignition.
Put the throttle in the start position as you engage the choke. Some models might not have you. Use it where appropriate.
Find the power switch and place it in the “On” position. Locate the starter cord and pull it. The engine should start.
However, should it fail to ignite, repeat the process by pulling the starter code once more. Once the engine is up and running, disengage the power switch.
Activate the self-propel feature
Now that the engine is running well, the machine should be ready to mow. Look for a lever on the handle, and turn it to activate the self-propel feature. By pushing it forward, the activation happens. The mower will start moving forward.
You can stop it by releasing the lever handle. Push the handle in the desired direction to turn the mower appropriately!
The clipping bag
Some models use this feature to store cut grass. Make sure that it is empty before starting the task. When it is full of grass, stop the mower, drain the contents, or replace it with a new one before continuing with the work.
Move to the desired location
You are ready to start mowing, except that you could be in the wrong position. Move the self-propelled mower to the exact location before engaging or activating the self-propel feature. Ensure the terrain is flat, as it might not maneuver around obstacles. However, you can always guide it through such rough terrain.
Adjust the cutter deck
As a general rule, do not immerse the blades deep into the feet of the grass. Cut one-third of the length at any given time. Repeat the process until you are through with the activities.
If you cut deep, the grass will hold the blade.
Set the throttle to the low position. Disengage the choke. Set the cutter to the correct height. Set the wheels to motion by using the squeeze bar.
Adjust the height of the grass cutter and the speed as you proceed with your tasks.
Mow the grass in straight lines to avoid leaving behind uncut patches. Remember to move in the recommended direction. If your garden is slant, move from the lowest part to the highest and vice versa. Never go across as you risk tipping off. On the other hand, if the land is sloped by more than 15⁰, discard the riding or self-propelling mowers. Use a push mower instead.
Push mowers are safe to use on any terrains, as they are slow-moving and very stable.
Switch off the mower
Once through with the work, it is time to turn off the engine. Turn the power switch to the “Off” position. It will shut down.
Maintenance
Perform some inspections, do repairs, clean the mower, and store it for future use. Maintenance ensures that your machine will serve for ages. Failure to do so is akin to reducing the value and the useful life of your equipment.
Read more: Best Self Propelled Lawn Mower Under 300
Conclusion
How does a self-propelled mower work? Many people do not have an idea of how this machine works. After going through this document, you will not encounter trouble operating it.
