cleaning scag mower

A hydrostatic transmission on a SCAG lawn mower can feel weak from the use of a bad hydraulic belt or pulley. Part 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CaooqW0GJkc&t, Part 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Car5vamdGzE, Part 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8zjHi30bPu0&t, Part 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JOD0xI0qDG8&t, Copyright 2023 SCAG Power EquipmentA division of, Privacy Policy | Terms & ConditionsPatents, A video that outlines the safe and proper operation of your Scag mower is available. Repeat as necessary. Drive release lever in the wrong position, The drive release arms allow hydrostatic mowers to roll freely. Replace a stretch mower deck belt. It can also leak from a fuel filter, fuel shut-off valve, gas cap, fuel lines, or fuel pump. Although all our machines are dependable, built to last and built Scag tough, every mower needs to have work performed on it. If the blades appear to be fine and if you have not noticed any reduction in the effectiveness of the cut, the blades will not require further attention. A Scag riding mower has four tie-down points for additional stability. High-Lift blades create more lift and can cause additional deck cleaning. This can cause significant engine damage resulting in a large repair expense. I'm a lawn mowing expert and gardening enthusiast. Then, turn off the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent the engine from accidentally starting. Any seat-belt system that shows cuts, fraying, extreme or unusual wear, significant discoloration due to UV exposure, dirt or stiffness, abrasion to the seat-belt webbing, or damage to the buckle, latch plate, hardware or any other obvious problem should be replaced immediately. Lift the bar straight . If you narrow your problem down to an internal engine problem, its best to have a small engine mechanic diagnose and make the necessary repairs. NEVER allow children to operate this riding mower. Operate the engine at full throttle for best cutting. You can clean the spark plug quickly by using a wire brush. Brush will remove all grass debris easily. Stop the fuel flow. Step 2: Empty the gas/oil tank and disconnect the spark plug to prevent the accidental start. Well, MowersLab recommends you every 25 hours of mower usage you have to clean or replace the mower air filter. Detailed information can be found at:Your SCAG Lawn Mower Starts Then Dies: SOLVED! What Causes Gas to Get in Oil in Lawn Mower? DO NOT operate the machine under the influence of alcohol or drugs. % of people told us that this article helped them. The potential exposure of the seat belt to severe environmental conditions make it crucial to inspect the seat-belt system regularly. For best results, use an air hose with a nozzle or wand to blow away loose grass after scraping. It could also not move if the belt is worn. Wet grass reduces traction and steering control. POR-15 is one of the more popular options. Next, locate the blade bolts and use a wrench to loosen them. The best approach to keeping the mower maintained is to follow a consistent schedule. He is the President and Founder of Aqua Conservation Landscape & Irrigation, an Idaho Registered Landscape Business Entity. Blow off grass with an air hose. 98460019, Wright Mfg. ALWAYS wear seat belt when roll bar is in the up position. Solution: When you find a section of the fuel line that isnt allowing good fuel flow due to a clog, shut off the fuel flow and remove the fuel line from the mower. Keeping the underside of the deck well painted and as smooth as possible will help way more than not taking care of it. The cooling fins push air to keep the engine block and cylinder cool. Start your fuel flow and watch the flow from the fuel line into the container. By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube. Clean the components making up the carburetor. Water can interfere with the air filter or other mechanisms, especially on the sides or top of the mower. I'll scrape and pressure wash the deck once a week. Every few weeks I'll hose the dust/ mud/ grass off of it. When the vent is plugged, the fuel tank forms a vacuum not allowing gas to flow to the engine. Internal engine problems can have a detrimental effect on your mower if they are not caught soon enough and fixed. Use a stick or other device to remove clogged material after the engine has stopped running and the blades have stopped turning. Adjust the speed adjustment bolt to change the rotation speed of the tire. Wet grass reduces traction and steering control. Rebuild or replace it if needed. This depends on your particular model. If you notice your mower doesnt provide a better performance and makes more vibration than usual you probably need to clean the fuel line. Gas Tank Leak. Operate the engine at full throttle for best cutting. To avoid this, I recommend starting each mowing season off with a new air filter. Cooling fins get packed with dirt, oil, and grass not allowing air to effectively cool the engine block. You must check its condition and clean it several times throughout the season. Dirty or damaged spark plug causes the plug to foul out and cause intermittent running problems. Cold galvanization compound is a highly water resistant treatment for unpainted metal surfaces. Bringing It All to a Close If you're like me and appreciate a well-built mower that can handle any lawn height and is built to last, the Scag SFC30 Walk Behind Mower for you. References 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. Purchases made through these links may provide a commission for us, at no extra cost to you. Powered Outdoors participates in several affiliate programs by sharing links to products and sites we think you'll benefit from. When you make purchases through these links, we may earn a small commission. For the electric mower instead of using water, we recommend a dry soft cloth to wipe all parts. Check for an air restriction caused by a plugged air filter or incorrect choke setting. DO NOT use E85 fuel. I don't really. This ethanol and moisture mixture can corrode fuel components and leave behind a gummy substance that results in fuel restrictions. It's usually best to empty the gas tank before you begin. Material wrapped around the blade spindle, Foreign materials like string or long weeds can get wrapped around your blade shaft causing vibration. When mowing close to obstacles, direct the discharge away from the obstacles to reduce the chance of property damage by thrown objects. Make sure the bypass valves are in the operating position. Dont overlook the small stuff. Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. Blades must be balanced before installing. While learning the operation of the steering controls, keep the travel speed low. Step 2: Use strong jet water to remove the grass finer and other hard obstacles from the blade. Actual product may differ from photos. I've thought about trying the Zep degreaser but I'm hesitant because I've seen it strip the paint off of equipment when applied too strong. Switch to high-lift blades if your mower is compatible. DO NOT operate on steep slopes. Replace the battery when it wont hold a charge. However, sometimes they use water for cleaning the machine and damage the mower engine. Never fuel indoors or in enclosed trailers. Replace the fuse with a fuse with the same amperage. The choke reduces the amount of air the engine receives. Make sure the container is placed lower than the fuel tank because fuel cannot run uphill without the help of the fuel pump. This is probably why the Scag SFC30 is a heavy machine, It doesn't look as heavy as it actually is. Be sure to keep your mowers blades sharp. Smooth operation of the steering levers will produce smooth mower operation. Run your mower with and without the cap for periods of time to see if a clogged vent is the cause of your SCAG mower dying. NEVER tow on slopes. Lubrication diagrams in the manual clearly point out all grease Zerk locations. The engine is designed to be operated at full speed. Step 1: Make sure you disconnect the spark plug and stop all the moving parts. Your SCAG Lawn Mower Starts Then Dies: SOLVED! If your lawn mower cuts the grass into small pieces so you do not need to collect the clippings, you have mulching blades. If you have an air hose, use it again to speed up the drying process. This post may include affiliate links. Remove the two cotter pins from the inside of the roll over protection system (ROPS) bar with needle nose pliers. What is the best method to turn over a walk-behind lawn mower? I bought my first zero. Deck sprays are not a miracle product that prevents all buildup, but it can minimize the amount of debris collecting under the deck. Additional parts may be necessary upon inspection, such as new belts or new blades. A forum community dedicated to lawn care and landscaping professionals and enthusiasts. Replace a worn or cracked belt. Replace any damaged blades and make sure they are balanced. Before any maintenance can begin, owners should inspect their mowers. Starting at $140. Contact a small engine mechanic when this doesnt correct your problem. Running with an insufficient engine oil level may have resulted in engine damage like a blown gasket, burnt valve, or damaged internal parts. 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. A mower deck that is plugged full of debris can cause your SCAG lawn mower to shut down. Check all belts and fasteners to ensure that everything is secure. Finally, run your mower at full throttle so its most effective at throwing the grass clippings away from the mower. Step 5:Using an air compressor or a blower with a bristle brush to clean the radiator cooling fans, the flywheel fins. Required fields are marked *. Many of the problems that prevent a lawn mower from starting can also be the reason it dies after it starts and runs. They can also be punctured by a foreign object or the clamps used on the lines. 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. The engine can be damaged when this mixture runs through the engine as it burns very hot. Step 4: Rinse the water and dry the air filter. Additionally, Scag provides a factory maintenance schedule for owners of their riding mowers. You can also remove a little oil from the oil filter or drain plug. The drive-release arms must be in the operating position. Free shipping. Anthony "TC" Williams is a Professional Landscaper in Idaho. Consult a professional mechanic when you are unsure of any steps required to diagnose and repair your mower safely. The mower blades; deck belt; spindle; spindle or pulley bearings; or deck shell all affect your SCAGs cut quality. Follow all safety instructions provided in your equipment operators manual prior to diagnosing, repairing, or operating. This is because the engine must work harder to turn the blades through a deck full of debris. Keep hands and feet away from cutter blades and moving parts. 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. Remove the caps and check the electrolyte level. Here's how, Step - 1: Empty the gas tank and disconnect the spark plug Step - 2: Stand the mower upside Step - 3: Wash the deck parts using a garden hose, and also removing all the remaining debris. It can also be due to loose hardware, the ball bearing failing in the clutch, loose engine mounting bolts, or worn mower components. Ensure that the battery is clean and that the terminals are not corroded. NEVER leave the machine running unattended. A choke is used for cold starts. 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. In addition to these negative effects, the ethanol and water mixture will separate from gasoline over time and sink to the bottom of the tank. Clear the area to be mowed of objects that could be picked up and thrown by the cutter blades. Continue to add or remove oil until the oil level is at the full line on your dipstick. I've used Pam, wd40, oil or whatever I could spray under deckafter 5 minutes it's gone. i'm thinking about just telling the dealer to clean up my new machine, having spent over 15,000 with them this year i'm sure they will clean it up for nothing. Replace a fuel tank vent that no longer vents. How Do You Use a Riding Lawn Mower? By using our site, you agree to our. Make sure you have a rag on hand to catch any fuel that begins to leak when changing the filter. Install a new one if it is very dark in color, worn, or damaged. Heres how, Step 1: Empty the gas tank and disconnect the spark plug. Solution: The choke lever must be placed in the off position after the engine is warm to allow additional airflow or the mower will sputter and die. This is an alternative fuel made of corn or other high-starch plants. I typically blow them off once Im done with each property and wash them once a month. The mower wont move if your drive belt has fallen off. Keep flammable objects (cigarettes, matches, etc. Two models of the Scag Liberty-Z zero-turn lawn mowers were recalled. DO NOT turn sharply. Mow frequently. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Never attempt running your SCAG mower without an air filter. Be especially cautious when changing directions on slopes. If the blades are damaged, they must be replaced. 1. Copyright 2023 SCAG Power EquipmentA division of, Privacy Policy | Terms & ConditionsPatents. If from the side, should the oil pan stay on top, or is it nothing to worry about? Also cleaning off after each job means you will be taking a close look at your mower so will notice the missing bolt, bent blade, frayed belt, thornin tyre etc, long before it causes a failure. Your best solution here is to take your mower to an experienced small engine mechanic to tear down your engine and perform tests to determine how much damage was done. Step 1: Park the Mower. I blow mine off at the end of each day. 1,850. Always wear hearing protection. Then, I have a little 1700 psi electric pressure washer I use to clean it off about once a week. Install a new fuel line when the clog cant be removed. We recommend using hot soapy water and a brush. It is a great mower for residential and commercial use. Place the throttle lever in its highest position when engaging the mower blades. Raise the mower to the highest setting for the first pass and then make a second pass to the desired height. I love taking care of lawns and gardens, and I'm always looking for new ways to improve my skills. When the unit is not tracked correctly, your mower can veer off to one side and not drive straight. Wipe out any dirt remaining in the housing with a clean dry cloth. There are a number of items to inspect and replace when maintaining a Scag mower and keeping track of all of them can be difficult if only some are done at a time. Fill the fuel tank outdoors. Test it on a small patch first. Test the battery and place it on a charger if the reading is less than 12.7 volts for a 12-volt battery. I get my guys on a slow day to spend a few hours with scrub brushes soap powder and tooth brushes. Summer Lawn Dormancy: What Causes it, and How Can You Prevent It? I started my own lawn care business in college and have been doing it ever since. Vibration in a mower can be caused by something as small as a wood chip or other debris getting lodged in the mower. Over time, this riding mower can build some problems that may entangle you if you don't have any prior knowledge of such problems. 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. If you can, go ahead and reuse your air filter. If you have a big compressor then use it to get what can't be blown off with a hand blower. Even tight turns have the potential to cause turf damage. Check the blade mounting bolts at frequent intervals for proper tightness. How can I access the underside of a riding lawn mower? Keep the roll bar in the raised and locked position and the seat belt securely fastened during operation. 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. DO NOT mow when children and/or others are present. You may have developed a significant engine problem. Your Belt Keeps Coming Off Your SCAG Lawn Mower: SOLVED! An air filter is used on a SCAG mower to protect the engine from wear and damage. Even products marketed for lawn mowers often due a poor job of long-term protection. I have been mowing with a 54 inch lawn tractor. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. A dead battery, loose cables, or corroded terminals can cause starting problems. Avoiding Bad Mowing Habits that Damage Your Lawn. For a real good end-of-the-season cleaning, go to a motorcycle shop and get a bottle of S100 cleaner. Some people swear by it, but others find that grass sticks even more to this coat. Using super clean on the mowers works great. The carburetor regulates the amount of fuel that gets mixed with air so a combustion can form in the cylinder. Keep all shields in place, especially the grass discharge chute. Step 1 At the end of the mowing path, turn toward the next mowing path. Ethanol attracts moisture from the air and introduces it to the fuel system. Securely attach your spark plug wires. Disengage power to the attachments when transporting or when not in use. It is good to check the tracking on your mower. After cutting for 4 straight hours passing through 6 foot tall johnsons grass on to a bare dusty lot then to 5 foot tall lespedeza, things tend to stick. If the blades are cracked or damaged, do not weld or straighten the blades; simply replace them. {"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":"