FOR TRACTORS AND ZERO-TURN MOWERS
Gear-drive models must be shifted between ground-speed ranges; models with automatic drive vary ground speed infinitely via a hydrostatic transmission or other system. Four-wheel steering lets tractors turn nearly as tightly as zero-turn machines. A safety switch for reverse helps avoid mishaps by making you engage it before mowing in reverse. An electric power takeoff switch lets you avoid pulling a lever to engage the blades. Some models also let you switch mowing modes without changing blades. A visible fuel gauge lets you check the level from the seat, while cup holders are an added convenience on many models. Cruise control locks in a ground speed. A high-back seat adds support and comfort, while a washout port accepts a hose for clearing clippings beneath the deck. Also convenient: an hour meter, which shows how long the engine has run between oil changes and other maintenance.
FOR ELECTRIC AND GAS MOWERS
A sliding-clip cord keeper or a flip-over handle eases turns for corded mowers. Single-lever height adjustment lets you raise and lower the entire deck at once, while a blade-brake clutch on gas-powered mowers stops only the blade when you release the handlebar safety bail, eliminating the need to restart the engine. An overhead-valve engine tends to run more efficiently than a side-valve engine. Many gas mowers include a rubber primer bulb that supplies added fuel for cold starts, and more now come with no-prime starting that frees you from any additional steps when you start a cold engine. An electric starter eliminates the need to pull-start a gas engine. Some self-propelled gas-powered mowers have several speeds or infinite drive speeds, typically from 1 to 3½ mph. Rear-wheel-drive models tend to have better traction on hills than front-drive models, especially when their bag is full. Models with swivel front wheels allow easy 180-degree turns, but can be tricky on hills. Some mowers offer corrosion-proof aluminum or plastic decks. Most models now allow tools-free mode changes. Most mowers come a rear-mounted grass-collection bag rather than a side-mounted bag that reduces capacity and hinders maneuverability.
HOW TO CHOOSE
Here’s what else to consider as you shop for a mower or tractor:
Choose the right kind. Decide which type—manual-reel mowers, gas or electric mower, lawn tractor, or zero-turn-radius mower—best matches your lawn.
Then choose one that is especially adept at bagging, side-discharging, or mulching clippings if that’s the mode you prefer.
Don’t pay extra for big names. You’ll find a Honda engine in lawn mowers from Craftsman, Lawn-Boy, Yard-Man, and other brands that use Honda’s premium image
to gain added cachet. These newer engines aren’t the commercial-grade versions that made Honda’s reputation for durability,
however. Those we tested performed well, but so did more-plebeian brands.
Don’t count horses. Higher horsepower doesn’t necessarily mean higher-quality mowing. Some manufacturers have swapped horsepower numbers for
engine-size and torque specifications, but even those don’t guarantee better results. Our advice: Check our Ratings for top
performers.
