Riding mowers are useful pieces of lawn equipment, especially if you have a large landscape to cover. Unfortunately, like many landscaping appliances, these mowers can experience common issues. However, knowing what to do will keep your equipment in top shape for longer. Below are five of the most common problems to watch for.

5 Riding Mower Issues

1. Starter Problems 

One of the most common issues with a riding mower is that the engine won’t crank or turn on. Anything from needing more fuel to a broken crank can be behind the trouble. In some cases, lubrication in the engine will also help engine turnover. If filling the tank and applying grease will not resolve the problem, bring your mower in for repairs. You may have a faulty starter or spark plug issue that is interfering with the startup.

2. Noisy Engine

Lubrication in the oil inlet tube is a necessary step, but if it is skipped, your engine may become noisy. Loose or broken components vibrating in the engine may also lead to loud clanking sounds. Try tightening everything and make sure your machine gets a regular tune-up.

3. Battery Trouble

If you notice that your engine seems to lose power quickly as you ride, your battery may be to blame. Ensure that it is fully charged, but if it drains automatically, replace it altogether. Also, check the electrical connections inside your mower, and make sure to inspect your battery system every few weeks to avoid a shortage. 

4. Smoking Equipment

When the air filter gets clogged, your riding mower may start spewing smoke as the engine pulls oil past the pistons. Replacing the air filter regularly should solve the problem. The smoke may also be the result of the carburetor not receiving enough air. While this issue can be the result of a clog, it can also mean an issue with the carburetor itself.

5. Overheating

Grass, leaves, and other lawn debris can lead to clogs, particularly in the cooling fins of your engine’s cylinder head. Not clearing out the area, especially after heavy use, will lead to your mower overheating. Stay on top of clearing away landscaping waste so that repeated overheating doesn’t lead to motor damage.

For more information on riding mowers, trust Gene & Matt Tractor Sales Inc. Located in Winder, GA, the dealership offers lawn equipment, tractors, backhoes, and more from top brands such as Kubota®. They also provide special financing through the Kubota Credit Corporation. In addition, their team is available for service and repairs, and with a full stock of parts, you can rely on quick and efficient turnaround times. Call (770) 867-3179 for questions about their inventory or visit them online for a look at their products.