What Is a Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower?

A zero turn riding lawn mower is a complete departure from previous mower designs. This more efficient lawn machine is steered by rear wheels and requires less physical effort from the operator.

Design

Zero turn mowers pivot around a point located in the center of each rear wheel. The mower turns right or left when one or both rear wheels rotate.

Features

The pivoting action of the mower allows it to get so close to lawn obstacles that additional trimming is rarely needed. The pivot can move the mower through 180 degrees without missing any grass.

Transmission

Each rear wheel is connected to a hydrostatic transmission, which creates wheel rotation with pressurized fluid. When you steer, you control the amount of fluid flowing that is available for the rotation.

Considerations

For commercial operators or residential consumers with big yards, a zero turn mower can substantially reduce cutting time.

Seating

Depending on model, zero turn riding mowers allow the operator to ride the mower, stand and ride behind, or push like a traditional hand mower.

References

• Popular Mechanics