What are the most common mower maintenance mistakes that negatively impact course quality?

2 Mower height adjustment

Another common mower maintenance mistake is setting the mower height incorrectly. Mower height affects the turf quality, density, root depth, and resilience. If the mower height is too low, you risk scalping the turf, exposing the soil, and reducing the photosynthesis and growth potential of the grass. If the mower height is too high, you create a dense canopy that reduces air circulation, light penetration, and water infiltration, creating favorable conditions for disease and pests. To avoid this, you should adjust your mower height according to the grass species, season, weather, and desired playing conditions. You should also check your mower height regularly and calibrate it with a ruler or a gauge.

3 Mower cleanliness

A third common mower maintenance mistake is neglecting to clean your mower after each use. Dirt, grass clippings, and debris can accumulate on your mower deck, blades, rollers, and other components, affecting their performance and durability. They can also harbor pathogens, weeds, and insects that can spread to different areas of the course and cause damage. To avoid this, you should clean your mower thoroughly after each use, removing any dirt, grass clippings, and debris from the deck, blades, rollers, and other parts. You should also spray your mower with a disinfectant or a fungicide to prevent disease transmission.

4 Mower lubrication

A fourth common mower maintenance mistake is failing to lubricate your mower properly. Lubrication reduces friction, heat, and wear on your mower parts, extending their lifespan and efficiency. It also prevents rust, corrosion, and seizing, which can impair your mower function and safety. To avoid this, you should lubricate your mower regularly, following the manufacturer's recommendations and using the appropriate type and amount of lubricant. You should also check your mower for any signs of lubricant leakage, contamination, or depletion and address them promptly.

5 Mower storage

A fifth common mower maintenance mistake is storing your mower improperly. Exposure to moisture, sunlight, temperature changes, and pests can damage your mower parts and cause deterioration and malfunction. To avoid this, you should store your mower in a dry, cool, and ventilated place, away from direct sunlight and sources of heat or fire. You should also cover your mower with a tarp or a cloth to protect it from dust, dirt, and insects. If you are storing your mower for a long period, you should drain the fuel, oil, and coolant, disconnect the battery, and inflate the tires.

6 Mower inspection

A sixth common mower maintenance mistake is skipping or postponing your mower inspection. Inspection is essential to identify and fix any issues with your mower before they become serious and costly. Inspection also helps you optimize your mower performance and quality, ensuring that you deliver the best possible results on your course. To avoid this, you should inspect your mower before and after each use, looking for any signs of damage, wear, or malfunction on the deck, blades, rollers, belts, hoses, filters, spark plugs, and other parts. You should also follow a regular maintenance schedule and keep a record of your mower service and repairs.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?