Zero-turn lawn mowers usually struggling with the steering. It will give you some difficulties keeping the lawnmower in a straight path. Besides, Jerk can be a problem that you face while turning the lawnmower. In fact, you can do the reverse smoothly. These failures are clear signs that your lawnmower’s steering needs some adjustment.
This isn’t a problem. The below guides will help you adjust the steering wheel in just a few minutes. The steps can be applied to all models of lawnmowers that are available in the market. We will tell you the principle for a successful process.
Now, how to adjust steering on zero turn mower knowledge is shared with you!
A complete guide to adjust steering on zero turn mower
The necessary tool
This is a DIY method. Therefore the tools may be readily available in your home. These are:
- A socket wrench such as DEWALT socket set.
- A handheld wrench such as WORKPRO 3-piece adjustable set.
- A flashlight.
Besides, having some protection is recommended. You should wear a pair of gloves in case the sharp edge cuts your hand.
Step 1: Check the tire
If the four tires aren’t at the same pressure, they can cause the failure of the mower tracks. Let’s measure the four tires. If they are flat, pump them. If some tires are at different pressures, pump the needed ones. If they are bad, change new tires.
Recommendation: 3 Effective ways to break the bead on a lawn mower tire
Step 2: Check the performance of the lawnmower
Start the engine to check the performance. If it doesn’t run a straight line, you can try the below process:
- Identify the side that your lawnmower goes toward.
- Increase the pressure on the two tires in the side. Don’t pump them over the acceptable pressure. You can have some difficulty running the lawnmower, especially if the ground is slippery.
If these steps can’t help solve the problem, go on with the below instructions.
Step 3: Adjust the wheel speed
There is another common cause that leads to the problem. This is when the wheel on one side moves faster or slower than the other. If it is the case, the below simple process can help you:
- Identify the side that your lawnmower goes toward.
- Use the wrench to lose the but.
- Then you can decrease the steering lever travel by turning the bolt clockwise. Or increase the steering lever travel by turning the bolt counterclockwise.
- Put the nut in the proper position. Tighten it.
This process helps the lawnmower go straight, although both steerings lever forward.
Step 4: Adjust the steering levers
If it is an awkward two steering, you should take some minutes to repair it. To do this, you must extract the two arms. Then you can reach the steering lever and some alignment. Let’s make it work by following the below order:
#1: Check the height
- Extract the upper hardware securing.
- Move the handlebar to find the proper position.
- Reinstall the hardware securing.
#2: Check the width
- Extract the lower hardware securing.
- Loosen the nuts that help stabilize the spacer.
- Rotate the spacer to find the proper position.
- Reinstall all the parts.
#3: Check the reach
- Extract the upper hardware securing.
- Rotate the lever until you are comfortable with it forward/backward.
- Reinstall and tighten the parts.
Other methods to adjust steering on zero turn mower
Besides the main methods, there are some other remedies that you can apply to improve the steering performance.
The below remedies can’t become the main method. There are some reasons. First, it may be costly. Second, some methods need the mechanics’ consultancy.
Zero turn steering adjustment additional methods are ready for you:
Method 1: Replace your mower’s front axle
In some cases, although you complete the main method, the steering problem still exists. Let’s broaden your mind and think about other parts.
And the first part you should confirm is the unit’s front axle pivot. Look at the front wheels to check the problem. If it is pointing outward, this is a clear sign for the replacement needed. In fact, you can drive the lawnmower in a straight line under such conditions.
You must pay a big sum of money to purchase a new axle pivot. However, this is fair. After the replacement, you can find that your lawnmower is as perfect as a new one.
Method 2: Replace the tie rod
If the steering lever is wobbly, you may face the rod’s problem. In this case, you should have a check.
You can find the tie rod on the left side of the lawnmower. It is usually between the hand lever and the rear wheel.
To stabilize the steering, you can try pushing the lever forward. This helps enhance the balance.
Method 3: Change the wheel spindle
You should know that a worn or bent wheel spindle can destroy the balance of your steering. Let’s extract the housing, then have a look at the wheel spindle. If it is damaged or bent, it’s time to replace it.
Zero-turn steering adjustment – Bonus remedies for you
If you still don’t solve the problem, you can go ahead with the bonus remedies:
- Tighten the connection among the mower’s pump motor and transmission to other parts. If the linkages aren’t well, the motor will fail to rotate.
- Check the bearings of the wheel. If the tracking is flawless, change the bearings.
- Check the steering dampers. If they are worn or damaged, the lawnmower may move jerkily. In this case, changing is necessary.
FAQs on adjusting steering on zero turn mower
1. How often should I have a zero-turn steering adjustment?
It depends. It will directly relate to how often you run the lawnmower.
2. What is the maintenance for the lawnmower?
Check the bolts, the bearings, and tie rod regularly. If one of the mechanisms is worn, you repair or replace it. For more, you should read this post.
Final thoughts
There are some answers for how to adjust steering on zero turn mower questions. These are general guidelines and additional tips.
The methods can be widely applied, although the model is different.
Let’s go from the main method. If it doesn’t work, go on with the below methods. Let’s do it in order, you will complete the adjustment fastest and most effectively.