Spring has sprung, and your lawn is calling! But what if your riding lawn mower is stuck at your weekend getaway, or you need to get it serviced at a shop miles away? Moving a riding lawn mower isn’t always as simple as throwing it in the back of your truck. This guide will walk you through the process, covering everything from prepping your mower for transport to securing it safely on your vehicle. We’ll cover the essentials for both short and long-distance moves, so you can get your mower where it needs to be without a hitch.
Short Answer: Transporting a riding lawn mower requires careful preparation, secure tie-downs, and a vehicle with sufficient weight capacity. Prioritize safety by emptying fuel tanks, securing loose parts, and using appropriate straps or chains to prevent movement during transit.
Prepping Your Riding Lawn Mower for Transport
Before you even think about lifting your mower, take a few minutes to prepare it for the journey. This will ensure a smoother move and help prevent damage.
Safety First: Fuel and Batteries
- Empty the Fuel Tank: Gasoline is highly flammable, and a spill during transport could be disastrous. Before moving your mower, completely empty the fuel tank. Consider adding a fuel stabilizer to the remaining fuel if you’re storing the mower for a longer period.
- Disconnect the Battery: This prevents accidental starting and potential electrical issues during transport. It’s a good idea to remove the battery completely, if possible.
Secure Loose Parts and Accessories
- Remove Attachments: Take off any accessories that aren’t permanently attached to the mower, like mulching kits, baggers, or snow blowers. These can shift during transport and cause damage.
- Lock Down Controls: Make sure all levers and controls are in the neutral or “off” position. Secure them with bungee cords or tie-downs to prevent accidental movement.
- Secure the Deck: If your mower has a deck lift lever, lower it and secure it with a tie-down. This will help prevent the deck from swinging and potentially damaging the mower.
Choosing the Right Vehicle
The type of vehicle you use to transport your riding lawn mower is crucial. Consider the following factors:
Weight and Capacity
Riding lawn mowers can be surprisingly heavy, with some models weighing over 500 pounds. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine its weight capacity. Make sure the vehicle can handle the weight of the mower plus any other cargo you plan to transport.
Vehicle Type
- Trucks: Pick-up trucks with a bed are ideal for transporting riding lawn mowers. They provide ample space and can be equipped with ramps for easier loading.
- Trailers: If your mower is particularly heavy, or your vehicle lacks the capacity, consider using a utility trailer. Trailers offer dedicated space and allow you to distribute the weight evenly.
- SUVs and Vans: Some SUVs and vans can accommodate riding lawn mowers if you remove the seats. However, it’s important to ensure the vehicle is properly rated for the weight and to secure the mower properly.
Loading Your Riding Lawn Mower
Once you’ve chosen your vehicle, it’s time to carefully load your lawn mower.
Ramp Up (or Down)
- Ramps: Use ramps to smoothly load the mower onto the bed of a truck or trailer. Make sure the ramps are strong enough to support the mower’s weight.
- Manual Handling: If using a truck with a tailgate, you may need to manually lift the mower onto the bed. Enlist a friend for assistance, and be careful not to strain your back.
Secure the Mower
- Tie-Downs: Use heavy-duty straps or chains to secure the mower to the vehicle bed. Choose straps rated for the weight of the mower.
- Placement: Position the mower towards the front of the vehicle bed to prevent it from sliding back during braking.
- Strapping Techniques: Cross the tie-down straps over the mower and under the bed of the truck or trailer. Securely fasten the straps to the designated tie-down points.
- Avoid Over-Tightening: Ensure the straps are tight enough to prevent movement, but avoid over-tightening as this could damage the mower.
Transporting Safely
Once the mower is loaded and secured, it’s time to drive safely to your destination.
Drive Carefully
- Speed: Avoid sudden acceleration or braking, as this could cause the mower to shift.
- Corners: Take corners slowly and cautiously to minimize the risk of the mower shifting or tipping.
- Road Conditions: Be mindful of uneven roads or potholes, which could jolt the mower and lead to damage.
Regular Checks
- Securement: Make frequent stops to check that the tie-downs are still secure and that the mower hasn’t shifted.
- Straps: Inspect the tie-downs for wear and tear. Replace any damaged straps before continuing your journey.
Unloading Your Riding Lawn Mower
Once you arrive at your destination, carefully unload the mower.
Reverse the Loading Process
- Ramps: Use the ramps to gently slide the mower off the vehicle bed.
- Manual Handling: If you need to manually lower the mower, enlist assistance and be mindful of your back.
Double-Check Security
- Tie-Downs: Remove the tie-downs and inspect the mower for any signs of damage.
- Loose Parts: Reattach any accessories or parts that were removed before transport.
Additional Tips for Transporting a Riding Lawn Mower
- Professional Assistance: If you’re unsure about how to transport your mower safely, consider hiring a professional towing service.
- Protective Cover: Use a tarp or protective cover to shield the mower from dust, rain, and other elements during transport.
- Maintenance: Once you’ve unloaded the mower, check the engine oil and tire pressure to ensure everything is in good working order.
Final Thoughts
Transporting your riding lawn mower doesn’t have to be a stressful ordeal. By taking the time to prepare your mower, choose the right vehicle, and secure it properly, you can ensure a safe and smooth journey. Remember to drive carefully, check your load frequently, and always prioritize safety. With a little planning and attention to detail, you’ll have your mower up and running in no time.
FAQs
Q: What is the best way to transport a riding lawn Mower?
A: The best way to transport a riding lawn mower depends on the distance you are traveling and the size of your mower. For short distances, a trailer or truck bed is the most convenient option. Secure the mower with tie-down straps or chains and ensure it is level. For longer distances, it’s safer to use a flatbed trailer to protect your mower from potential road hazards. You should also consider using a cover to protect it from the elements.
Q: What kind of trailer do I need for a riding lawn mower?
A: You will need a trailer that is large enough to accommodate the dimensions of your riding lawn mower, including its height. A flatbed trailer with a capacity of at least 1,500 lbs is recommended for most riding lawn mowers. Ensure the trailer has tie-down points or rings to securely fasten your mower during transport. A trailer with a ramp or adjustable height is helpful for loading and unloading.
Q: How do I secure the riding lawn mower to the trailer?
A: Securing your riding lawn mower to the trailer is crucial to prevent it from shifting or falling during transport. Use heavy-duty tie-down straps or chains to secure the mower to the trailer bed. Wrap the straps around the mower’s frame, going through the tie-down points on the trailer. Ensure the straps are tight enough to prevent movement but not so tight that they damage the mower.
Q: Do I need to drain the fuel tank before transporting?
A: It’s generally recommended to drain the fuel tank before transporting your riding lawn mower, especially for long distances or if you’re storing it for a while. This reduces the risk of fuel spills and potential fire hazards. However, if you can’t drain the tank completely, make sure to secure the fuel cap tightly to avoid leaks.
Q: Should I remove the battery before transporting?
A: While not always necessary, removing the battery from your riding lawn mower can reduce the risk of damage during transport, especially if you’re going over bumpy roads. Make sure to disconnect the battery terminals and properly secure the battery before transporting.
Q: Is it okay to transport a riding lawn mower in a truck bed?
A: You can transport a riding lawn mower in a truck bed, but it’s important to secure it properly to prevent it from shifting or falling. Use tie-down straps or chains to secure the mower to the truck bed, making sure they are attached to the truck’s tie-down points. Keep in mind that transporting in a truck bed can expose the mower to weather and road hazards, so consider using a cover for added protection.
Q: What are some tips for loading and unloading a riding lawn mower?
A: When loading and unloading your riding lawn mower, use a ramp or a helper to make the process easier and safer. If using a ramp, make sure it’s sturdy and long enough to provide a smooth incline. Always keep the mower in neutral gear and engage the parking brake before loading or unloading. Ensure the ramp is firmly secured and the area is clear of obstructions.