Lawn Mowers & Tractors

Cuts in reverse

Some tractors don't let you cut grass in reverse. While a good safety feature, this can also be inconvenient in tight areas. Certain models instead require you to engage an override switch.

Cruise control

Lets the tractor's driver maintain a constant speed without using the foot pedal.

Washout port

Accepts a hose for cleaning the underside of the deck more easily than from above. Be sure to allow the underside to air-dry before stowing the machine.

Power steering

Hydraulic or electric boost to reduce force required to turn the steering wheel.

Deck size

The manufacturer's claimed cutting width, or swath, in inches. Mowers with larger decks take up more storage space, but cut proportionally faster and therefore reduce cutting time.

Engine power

The manufacturer's claimed horsepower for the engine. All other factors being equal, an engine with more power will be able to handle tougher jobs (such as tall grass) without bogging down.

Engine manufacturer

The brand of engine on the rider.

Drive type

Categorized by the drive system (engine and transmission), which controls a tractor's direction and ground speed. Tight-turning, "zero-turn-radius" riders use a dual hydrostatic-drive system to infinitely vary ground speed and allow a narrow turn radius by varying power to each rear wheel independently.

Number of cylinders

The number of gasoline combustion cylinders in the engine.

Forward speeds

All tractors with gear-drive transmissions have multiple forward speeds, usually five or six. Tractors with hydrostatic transmissions have infinitely variable forward speeds controlled by the operator.

Warranty

The length of time the lawn mower is covered by its manufacturer for defects or repairs.