What should be checked if a riding mower cuts unevenly?

Leanne Schmid

Deck Leveling - Riding Mower

What should be checked if a riding mower cuts unevenly?

We recommend that the tire pressures be checked before doing any other adjustments, as this may be the problem and any further adjustments would also require the tires be properly inflated beforehand.

Tire pressures are stated in Pounds per Square Inch (PSI) measure. The factory settings for residential riding mower tires are generally 10 PSI for rear tires and 14 PSI for front tires. But it's a good idea to always check the side wall of the tire itself, as the tires on a particular model may not always be standard equipment tires. The maximum tire pressure is embossed on each tire. This is the maximum tire pressure. Inflating tires to 2-3 PSI under the maximum is also acceptable. as long as the pressure in both front tires are the same and both rear tires are the same.

If this doesn't solve the problem, a deck leveling adjustment may be needed. The deck leveling adjustment varies by model and is explained in the Adjustments section of the Operator's Manual. Please refer to the Operator's Manual and follow these instructions as they relate to the particular tractor being serviced.

If the above actions do not correct the problem, it may also be one of two other situations:

  1. The blades and/or spindles could be worn or out of balance. 
  2. There may be bent or damaged deck hangers that would require replacement.

If further assistance is needed, please visit a local authorized service center and have them visually inspect and service the mower. 

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SNOW THROWER FAQ's

Leanne Schmid

Here we answer some common questions regarding Cub Cadet snow throwers...

1. 

PROBLEM
What is the proper fuel and oil mixture for a 2-cycle engine on a single-stage snow thrower?
SOLUTION

Our two-cycle snow throwers use a 50:1 ratio of gasoline to 2-cycle oil.
A 50:1 ratio is a mix consisting of 2.5 ounces of 2-cycle oil with 1 gallon of gasoline.

NOTE:  Always mix 2-cycle fuel oil and fuel in an approved gasoline safe container prior to filling the engine. Make sure to use a separate gas can for this 2-cycle fuel mixture and label it accordingly. Keep in mind that the fuel capacity of these engines normally is less than a gallon, therefore you will have to use this mixture for multiple fuel fills. Adding a fuel stabilizer will help to increase the shelf life of fuel.

2.

PROBLEM
How is the single-stage snow thrower shave plate adjusted?
SOLUTION

The shave plate adjustment on our single stage snow throwers can be made by first checking the shave plate to find how much adjustment is needed.  To do this, place snow thrower on a level surface.

Drawing auger, shave plate and wheels
Drawing that shows, the auger, shave plate and wheels.

Components on Unit
Components on an actual unit.

These components should all be touching the ground at the same time. If either the auger or wheels are not touching the ground, this means that the shave plate is adjusted too low and needs to be raised.  If the wheels and auger are both touching the ground and the shave plate is not, this means that the shave plate is too high, and needs to be lowered to meet the auger and wheel levels. The shave plate has four nuts and bolts that fasten it on. To make this adjustment, loosen these four fasteners and slide the shave plate up or down as needed.

3.

PROBLEM

How are the skid shoes on a multiple-stage snow thrower adjusted?

SOLUTION

Adjusting the "skid shoes" (a.k.a. "slide shoes" ) on a multiple-stage snow thrower allows you to select how close to the ground the unit will clear snow.

Smooth Surface Adjustment:
Note:  Something will be needed to support the auger housing during this adjustment (thin wood plank, cardboard, etc..) that is approximately 1/8" H x 20" W x 6"D. Make sure the width is slightly less than that of your snow thrower auger width. To properly support your unit for this adjustment, do not use anything that is unstable or unable to support the snow thrower.

  1. Place the supporting device below the center of the shave plate. This support should then elevate the sides of the auger housing slightly.
  2. Next loosen the hardware securing the skid shoes on both sides of the auger housing, slide both shoes until they are positioned even with the ground, then tighten the tighten the hardware and remove the support material.
  3. The shave plate should now be positioned just slightly above the ground with the shoes properly supporting the entire auger housing.

Irregular and Gravel Surface Adjustment:  
If you are clearing a surface that has an unusually irregular surface you should follow the instructions above, with the exception that you should use something thicker than 1/8 of an inch for support during the adjustment. The actual height needed will depend on the severity of the surface irregularities. 

4.

PROBLEM

How can the ground traction on a snow thrower be improved?

SOLUTION

To improve the traction on a snow thrower we have optional tire chains available for most tires. The tire size and/or the name ‘Snow Hog’ or 'X-Trac' should be molded into the side of the tire. Use the following chart to identify which chains fit the tires.

TIRE SIZE

SNOW HOG or X-TRAC

PART # FOR CHAIN SET

13 X 4.1

Yes

OEM-390-062

15 X 6

No

OEM-390-145

16 X 6.5

No

OEM-390-146

16 X 6.5

Yes

OEM-390-655

16 X 4.8

Yes

OEM-390-991

NOTE: All tire size measurements are in inches. NOTE: All chain sets above consist of 2 chains.

Tire chains installed on a snow thrower.
Tire chains installed on a snow thrower.

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NEW ENGINES, SAME CUB CADET QUALITY

Leanne Schmid

A POWERFUL ADDITION TO THE XT ENDURO SERIES™

CUB CADET EFI ENGINES

Like all other engines that you find in our lineup, these EFI engines are Cub Cadet certified, guaranteeing unbeatable durability and performance.

To become Cub Cadet certified, engines are evaluated using a rigorous process to ensure they have been built to uphold our standards of strength, high performance and premium quality.

MORE POWER
Cub Cadet fuel-injected engines set new standards in comfort and strength.
LESS FUEL
Electronic fuel injection (EFI) uses up to 25% less fuel versus standard carbureted engines.
EASY STORAGE
Simplifies off-season storage by eliminating the need to drain the fuel tank.

ELECTRONIC FUEL INJECTION (EFI) TECHNOLOGY

The new Cub Cadet fuel-injected engine boasts serious strength. With up to a 679cc level of power, Cub Cadet EFI engines deliver the kind of high-performance power you'd expect from Cub Cadet. While HP is the typical method for measuring power, utilizing CC's is the most reliable way to define an engine's capacity. This standard is borrowed from the power sports category.

  • It uses up to 25% less fuel, which means fewer emissions and fewer fill-ups.
  • Decrease time spent on maintenance - it has no carburetor and requires fewer oil changes.
  • Spend less money - both fuel-efficiency and ease of maintenance translate to savings.
  • Greater improved compatability with ethanol fuel blends up to E20, letting you fill up with confidence.
THE CUB CADET
54-POINT QUALITY CERTIFICATION INCLUDES:
  1. DURABILITY TESTED
    Tested to 2X the life of standard carbureted engines, Cub Cadet certified engines undergo accelerated dynamometer torture tests to ensure years of useful life.
  2. MORE USABLE POWER
    The Cub Cadet EFI engine's improved governing system provides more usable power when harsh mowing conditions - like tall, wet grass - demand it.
  3. COLD START DEPENDABILITY
    Going to extremes, Cub Cadet engines are field tested in the most challenging environments ranging from the frozen shores of Barrow, Alaska, to the scorching deserts of Arizona, to ensure dependable all-temperature starting.
  4. ETHANOL COMPATIBILITY
    EFI engine components are durability - and field-tested with ethanol fuels to certify compatibility up to E20.

EFI FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT IS EFI?
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) is a high pressure fuel management system. Just like on today's cars, EFI uses an onboard computer, injector nozzle, and multiple sensors to reliably deliver exactly the right amount of fuel to get the most performance and efficiency out of your engine. Cub EFI is an advanced electronically controlled "Closed Loop" system that uses real time feedback to sense the usage conditions and instantly optimize combustion to give you smooth running, and exceptional starting you can count on... no matter what.
HOW DO EFI ENGINES WORK?
EFI, or any Fuel Injection system, utilizes a special high pressure fuel delivery nozzle to inject an ultra-fine mist of fuel into the engine. An electronic control unit uses sensors around the engine to deliver the precise amount of fuel the engine needs, improving response, efficiency and starting. Cub EFI adjusts the fuel metering on-the-fly to compensate for variations in load, speed, fuels, temps, and pressures to always feed your engine the perfect charge that it needs for maximum performance at any task.
DO EFI ENGINES REQUIRE LESS MAINTENANCE?
Yes. EFI systems produce cleaner combustion resulting in a cleaner engine. Clean engines can go longer between regular oil changes and required major maintenances. We do still recommend a fuel stabilizer for long term storage to make sure the fuel in the tank stays fresh and you'll be ready to mow with a push of button next spring.
ARE EFI ENGINES MORE RESISTANT TO FUEL SYSTEM CORROSION AND "ETHANOL DAMAGE" SO OFTEN SEEN TODAY?
Yes. The fuel system is ethanol resistant and compatible with gasoline fuels up to E20 (20% ethanol) blends. Unlike carburetors, the EFI system doesn't rely on mechanical components, and easy to clog jets. Critical EFI components are totally sealed making the entire system more tolerant to today's common automotive gasoline blends.
DOES THE CUB EFI ACCEPT E85?
No. E85 is a blend of gasoline containing mostly ethanol (85% ethanol and only 15% gasoline). Today, Cub EFI engines only accept up to E20 (20% ethanol) blends.
DOES CUB EFI ACCEPT DIESEL FUEL?
No, only gasoline with blends of ethanol up to 20%.

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Consumer Reports on Cub Cadet 3X 30HD and 3X 30HD PRO

Leanne Schmid

How Much Snow Blower Do You Need?

Depends on how much snow you need to move and how quickly

Published: November 30, 2015 01:10 PM

The number of inches of snow you need to move per storm is an important consideration, but so is how quickly you want to move it, how much snow your town’s plows leave at the end of your driveway, and how much storage space you have in the garage or shed to stow equipment. If you’re concerned about your driveway freezing, you’ll also need a flat snow shovel or a steel-bristled broom and ice melt.

Cub Cadet 3X 30HD

Up to 24 inches

Go for a heavy-duty two-stage model. All models have a spinning auger that breaks up the snow, and an impeller that hurls it out the chute. Better models also have beefier engines, easier steering, and better tires. Lighter-duty two-stage models have the same auger and impeller as larger models and are easier to store. But they don’t clear as fast.

Pros. These models clear the widest swath and handle steeper inclines. They can muscle through the snow as well as the frozen piles at the foot of the driveway.

Cons. They’re heavy and expensive, and they can take up as much storage space as a lawn tractor. They don’t usually clean right down to the pavement, a plus only for gravel driveways, and they need maintenance.

Our picks. For sheer power, the Cub Cadet 3X 30HD, $1,650, and the Troy-Bilt Vortex 2890, a CR Best Buy at $1,300, come with a second impeller in front that helps with plow piles. And if you’ve gotten complaints about noisy snow clearing, go with the Craftsman 88694, $900, which was quieter without sacrificing performance.

Up to 18 inches

Lighter-duty two-stage models have the same auger, impeller, and driven wheels as larger models, but they don’t clear snow as quickly because of their narrower clearing widths.

Pros. They cost a bit less and require less storage space than their larger siblings.

Cons. The less expensive ones come with fewer additional features, such as freewheel steering and single-hand controls.

Our picks. The 24-inch Troy-Bilt Vortex 2490, a CR Best Buy at $1,100, costs more than most others in this group but has the same second impeller as larger units and was as effective against plow piles. Its freewheel steering and single-hand controls also make handling excellent. The 24-inch Cub Cadet 2X 24HP, $900, carries an extra year of warranty, for three total, and cleaned closer to the surface than any other compact two-stage. And though the Craftsman 88173, a CR Best Buy at $680, gives up some helpful features for the price, including easy handling, it did as well as pricier models at ramming through plow piles and ran a bit more quietly.

Up to 9 inches

When you have less than a foot of snow, a single-stage model, which has a high-speed auger to loosen and hoist the snow through the chute, will suffice. These machines have a rubber-­tipped auger that helps propel them forward and is safe for deck finishes.

Pros. They’re fairly light and easy to handle, and they clean down to bare pavement. They also take up only about as much storage space as a lawn mower.

Cons. These smaller models have the most trouble with dense, wet snow, particularly plow piles, and they can’t be used on gravel surfaces. Their modest pulling power is no match for steep slopes and tends to make the machine pull sideways.

Our picks. The Toro Power Clear 721E, a CR Best Buy at $570, remains the standout for this category, with impressive speed and power for plow piles; it falls short only in throwing distance. The Cub Cadet 221 LHP, $550, offers single-lever chute adjustment and comes with a three-year warranty, a year more than the Toro’s. But it scored a notch lower for removal speed, throwing distance, and surface cleaning.

—Ed Perratore

Editor's Note:

 This article also appeared in the January 2016 issue of Consumer Reports magazine. 

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This Week's Product Pro-tip: Weather the Winter: Storage and Warm-ups

Leanne Schmid
YANMAR
Weather the Winter: Winterizing Your Tractor 
Storage and Warm-ups, Two Easy Steps to Keep Your Tractor going
While we all would like to stay indoors nice, warm and cozied up next to a fire with hot cup of something, little things like work, life, and bills always drive us out into that devil's dandruff. But just because we have to go out to conquer that icy powder doesn't necessarily mean that we have to spend all day doing so. As we make our tractors ready for the frigid winter, focus on simple measures to keep your tractor going. With a few minutes of preparation, you may save yourself from hours of work and make frostbite a lot less likely.
 
Cold Weather Storage Tips:
 
In a perfect world, we all have a garage that doubles as man cave and we park our Yanmar tractor next to a line-up of other high-horsepower tools and toys. However, it is not a perfect world ---- but any storage or shelter for your winter-working tractors is better than none.
Heated storage is best. But a wide range of indoor or under-shelter storage, even if completely unheated, can help keep your tractor battery, engine oil and tractor components a few degrees warmer than ambient temperatures. Every degree helps.
 
A warmer battery can provide more energy for longer periods to help crank your tractor engine. Warmer engine oil makes the engine easier to crank. Warmer hydraulic oil means power steering and attachment actions return to normal performance more quickly after cold-weather tractor starts.
 
If you don't have any type of enclosed or covered storage for your tractor, park it in an area that is the least exposed to the wind. Covering it with a tarp may help a bit with holding the tractor at a warmer temperature and a tarp will definitely save you some time that might otherwise go to cleaning up rainwater, ice or snow before you head out to plow the driveway.
 
Cold Weather Warm- ups for Tractors:
 
Just like athletes who stretch and warm up to avoid injury, we should give your tractor a chance to warm up when first starting it in the more severe range of winter cold conditions. During severe cold conditions -- before tractor operation -- let it idle for some minutes to allow all the components and fluids (engine oil, hydraulic fluid, coolant) to warm up and circulate to spread the heat generated by the engine to all the effected tractor components. A warmed-up engine is able to operate within more normal operating parameters of electronic engine and fuel injection controls This helps you operate with a more normal level of power output and fuel efficiency.
 
If you apply these cold-weather operation tips, like allowing time for a warm-up and doing what you can to store and shelter your tractor away from the coldest temperature, you can shorten the time it takes to complete your cold weather tractor tasks and get yourself back to your cozy fireside it less time.
 
One last winter weather tractor tip. If you are still fighting winter cold with an open platform tractor, remember that both YT2 and YT3 Series Yanmar tractors are now available with spacious, comfortable and heated factory cabs.

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Ariens Launches First Ever EZ-Launch EFI Snowblower

Parts Expert

Today Ariens introduced the newest addition to their equipment lineup, the first ever snowblower to use EFI (electronic fuel injection) technology in the industry!

While Ariens has been using EFI technology in their commercial equipment for years, this is the first time they've applied it their snowblower line. Here are a few highlights on the equipment that Ariens touched on in their press conference:

  • Easy to start
  • Virtually eliminates maintenance, no draining gas during the summer.
  • Maximum fuel efficiency
  • Maximum power in all conditions

The benefits of the engine are obvious for any demographic, but particularly those who aren't as familiar with these machines because they're so easy to start, use, and maintain. 

We should be seeing these groundbreaking machines hit the market in October 2016! Check back for more details as we have them!

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Ariens IKON XL Zero Turn

Parts Expert

At Mowtown Equipment, we only carry the best mower brands on the market today, that's why we carry Ariens mowers and products. 

One of the newest additions to the Ariens line is the IKON XL Zero-Turn, which was introduced in November 2015. If you're a landscaper or a homeowner with a lot of lawn to care for, this is the mower for you.The IKON was created with the same durabilty and quality that Ariens is known for, but includes several new features needed for cutting larger properties. 

Here's a quick highlight of some of the features you can expect from an Ariens IKON XL Zero-Turn:

  • The IKON is built on a single, tubular steel frame which is welded rather than bolted for maximum stability
  • Operator comfort is key, and the IKON incorporates features such as a plush, high backed seat with padded armrests, (ideal when tackling a large job), a dial height-of-cut selection, foot operated deck lift, cup holder, storage compartments, and advanced vibration isolation to increase efficiency.
  • Larger front and back tires to add to durability and efficiency. 

Like what you see? Check out Ariens IKON XL Zero-turns at Mowtown Equipment today!

 

 

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Mowtown Mythbusters: Weeds Aren't That Bad For My Lawn

Parts Expert

The Myth: While weeds are unsightly, they don't really pose a threat to your lawn. 

The Truth: Weeds that are allowed to grow compete with grass, flowers, and trees for water, light and nutrients in the soil. Many types of weeds grow at a rapid pace, and thus consume the resources other "good plants" need to grow. 

The Solution: Make sure to give your lawn everything it needs to grow strong and healthy, and when those weeds to peek through, make sure your mower can handle them!

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Getting To Know Your Cub Cadet Riding Lawn Mower

BEN DARKOW

If you've just purchased a new Cub Cadet riding lawn mower and you aren't sure where to start, here is a quick overview of lawn mower basics to get you going.
You'll also find helpful lawn mower tips to keep your machine running strong through the years.
Before beginning any maintenance on your Cub Cadet lawn mower, ensure your mower is on a flat, level surface.

UNDERSTANDING LAWN MOWER BASICS

STEP 1 - CONNECT THE BATTERY CABLES ON YOUR CUB CADET LAWN MOWER

Remove the red battery terminal cover from the red terminal and attach the red cable to the positive terminal. Next, remove the black battery terminal cover from the black terminal and attach the black cable to the negative terminal. Once both cables are attached, place the red cap on the positive terminal. Do not allow the wrench the come in contact with any metal.

STEP 2 - CHECK THE OIL ON YOUR RIDING LAWN MOWER BEFORE EACH USE

Check your engine's oil level with the dip stick before every use since too little or too much oil can damage your engine. You should also examine the oil quality every so often to know when it will need to be changed.

STEP 3 - FILL THE FUEL TANK

Using gasoline mixed with a stabilizer like STA-BIL, to extend the shelf-life of the gas, fill the fuel tank before each use so you don't run out while mowing. If you do run out, wait until the engine cools before adding fresh fuel.

STEP 4 - KNOW LAWN MOWER BASICS BEFORE STARTING YOUR RIDING LAWN MOWER

To start the mower, be sure you are seated back in the seat. If you are too far forward, the mower may not start. Engage the parking brake. Check to be sure the PTO lever is in the off position and activate the choke.

STEP 5 - START YOUR RIDING LAWN MOWER

Turn the key to the start position. Once the mower has started, release the key and allow it to return to the on position.

STEP 6 - OPERATE YOUR MOWER WITH OUR LAWN MOWER HELP TIPS

To begin driving your mower, move the throttle to the rabbit position. Move the shift lever to forward, press the brake pedal to release the parking brake, and press the drive pedal to increase your speed.

STEP 7 - ACTIVATE CRUISE CONTROL (ON APPROPRIATE MODELS)

Your LTX 1040 riding lawn mower is equipped with cruise control. Once you achieve a desired mowing speed, lightly press the cruise control lever downward and hold it in that position. Slowly release your foot from the drive pedal and then release the cruise control lever. You cannot engage cruise control in the fastest drive speed. Never attempt to engage cruise control while in reverse.

STEP 8 - RELEASE CRUISE CONTROL FOR COMPLICATED TURNS, SMALLER YARDS OR WHEN ANYONE IS NEARBY

To disengage the cruise control on your riding lawn mower, simply press either the drive pedal or brake pedal.

STEP 9 - ENGAGE LAWN MOWER BLADES

To engage the blades, be sure that your throttle or choke is in the rabbit position. Then, push the PTO or blade engage lever forward into the on position.

STEP 10 - LEARN HOW TO OPERATE YOUR RIDING LAWN MOWER IN REVERSE

Properly operating your machine in reverse is one of the most important lawn mower basics. To set the mower in reverse mode, come to a complete stop and turn the blades off. Depress the brake pedal and move the shift lever into reverse position. Finally, turn the key to the reverse/caution mode. Push the PTO/blade lever to the on position to engage the blades. Before pressing the drive pedal, check the area down and behind your riding lawn mower to make sure there are no objects in your path.

STEP 11 - PERFORM PROPER LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE

Before each time you mow, check your air filter for dirty, loose or damaged parts. It is highly recommended that the air filter, spark plugs, oil and oil filter are replaced every year when you prepare your mower for off-season storage.

FIND OTHER TOOLS AND ACCESSORIES THAT HELP YOU DO MORE WITH YOUR RIDING LAWN MOWER

There are many attachments and accessories available to help keep a beautiful lawn.
For example, bagging is a highly recommended method of helping maintain a healthy lawn be reducing thatch build-up, increasing oxygen and nitrogen absorption and encouraging grass to grow in the bare areas of your yard.

You can find baggers, plow attachments, utility carts, spreaders and sweepers for your Cub Cadet lawn mower in the operator's manual or online.


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