How to Manually Push a Kubota Zero Turn Mower

Kubota mowers are known for their exceptional cutting performance and maneuverability. Yet, there might be times when you need to manually push the mower, like during maintenance or when the machine can not start. In this guide, we will show you how to manually push a Kubota zero-turn mower with little to no effort.

Let’s dive in!

How to Manually Push a Kubota Zero Turn Mower

As Kubota mower dealers, we can assure you that Kubota mowers are well-built and very efficient lawn care machines. What we love the most about zero-turn mowers is that they are efficient and easy to use. Yet, several reasons can make your mower stop, and you must manually push it.

Before pushing the mower, ensure the engine is off, and the key is removed from the ignition. Plus, you should check if the control arms are in the neutral position, which allows the wheels to be unlocked.

Now, let’s go through the step-by-step guide:

1. Release the brake

First, you need to release the Kubota Zero Turn mower brake. Find the brake lever, which is usually located near the control arm. Pull the brake lever up or push it down to disengage the brake. This allows the wheels to spin so you can manually push the mower.

Keep in mind that you have to identify what type of brake you have. Brakes can be manual, electronic, or locking. If you have a manual brake, you must turn off the engine and disengage the brakes. If, on the other hand, your mower has an electronic brake, make sure that the brakes are disengaged by checking the pedal or brake button. If the mower has a locking brake, then you should go to the controls and put your mower on “run” or “drive”.

The Kubota Zero Turn mowers we sell usually have a blade brake control system.

2. Position for manual operation

Once you release the brake, go behind the mower and position your hands on the control arms. These control arms are used to operate the mower when it is running. In this case, you will use them to push the machine manually.

3. Pushing forward or backward

Press both control arms evenly forward to push the Kubota Zero Turn Mower forward. This will make the wheels on both sides of the mower move forward. Pull both control arms backward if you need to push the mower backward.

4. Turning the mower

To turn the mower while manually pushing, release the pressure on one control arm while maintaining pressure on the other. For instance, if you want to make a left turn, release the right control arm while keeping pressure on the left arm. This will cause the wheel to slow down or stop, allowing the mower to turn in that direction.

To make a right turn, do the opposite. Release the left control arm while keeping pressure on the right.

Additional tips for pushing the zero-turn mower

• Clear the path so your mower can move
• Call someone to help you, especially in guiding you when you push your mower manually
• Turn the engine off before pushing your mower
• Do not push your zero-turn mower without disengaging the brakes

Why Won’t My Kubota Zero Turn Start?

The most common reasons for the mower to stop moving are:

• The lawn mower stops working - If your zero-turn mower breaks down at some point, you need to move it from the path or take it to the garage. In this scenario, you need to move your mower manually.

• Something clogged your wheels - Debris, like small rocks or grass, can get stuck in your wheels. This will obstruct the movement. That is why you should inspect the mower, especially the wheels, and remove any obstructions.

• Loss of power - The mower can lose power for several reasons, like a faulty ignition system, a clogged air filter, or a broken fuel system. If the engine is not running at full power, it may lead to the mower being unable to move.

• Out of gas - If your mower is out of gas and you do not have spare gas, you should disengage the drives and push the mower back to the garage.

• Dead battery - This is something that does not happen often. Yet, if you find your mower has a dead battery, disengage the drives and move the mower.

• Hydrostatic transmission issues - Kubota Zero Turn Mowers usually use a hydrostatic transmission system to transfer power to the wheels. A problem with the transmission, like a damaged drive belt or low hydraulic fluid level, can cause the mower to stop moving. Check the drive belt for any signs of wear and tear or damage.

Conclusion 

This guide on how to manually push a Kubota Zero Turn Mower will help you move the mower easily. We recommend releasing the brake, positioning yourself behind the machine, and using the control arms to push and maneuver the mower. 

If you are unsure why your zero-turn mower is not starting, check the possible issues we have enlisted. Remember that something might be clogging the wheels of the mower, you may be out of gas, or the battery is dead. Plus, the mower may experience hydrostatic transmission issues or lose power due to faulty ignition or fuel systems.