Lawn Tractors and Ride Ons

Lawn Tractors and Ride Ons

Last Updated (Tuesday, 30 November 1999 00:00) Written by lawnmowerrepair Monday, 19 December 2011 20:13

Lawn tractors are similar to riding mowers, but with their engines in the front instead of in the back. With their cutting decks in the middle, tractors are designed to cut lawns that are larger than half an acre. They can also help with other tasks such as fertilizing and seeding with the extra attachments that can often be added to them. There are many factors to consider when choosing a lawn tractor, but the most important among them include the size and shape of your lawn along with what other functions you need your lawn tractor to perform. Lawn tractors work best on lawns with very few obstacles. Even the most maneuverable tractors leave behind areas that still need to be trimmed, such as the grass around trees, but some models do a better job of getting close to these areas than others do. If you have to use your lawn tractor on hills, it is a good idea to find one with a wide deck, usually around 45 inches. It should also have automatic rather than manual transmission. Another concern when choosing a lawn tractor is what you plan to do with the clippings. Mulching and bagging clippings can cause the tractor to run a bit more slowly, but those options can also make cutting grass with a tractor safer than side discharging, which can cause injuries by propelling rocks and other objects. Mulching and bagging kits can often cost extra, but may be worth it when you consider the fact that it cuts down the time and energy you would otherwise spend on the same tasks with other tools. Like other powered tools, lawn tractors can come with gas or electric powered engines. With concerns over the noise and emissions that gas powered engines bring, and propane powered tractors being priced out of most people’s range, you may be tempted to consider a tractor with an electric engine. Safety is a concern, though, as you may end up rolling over the cord. In addition, while being plugged in might save money that you would otherwise spend on fuel, it would make a tractor impractical for working on larger lawns.