Buying a Zero Turn Lawn Mower

Knowing what to look for when buying a used zero turn lawnmower can often mean the difference between getting your money’s worth and buying a lemon. This article will outline a few of the things you should consider before parting with your hard-earned:

*Number 1 rule of thumb: If it LOOKS thrashed, beaten-up, misused or ancient – IT
  PROBABLY IS!
*Inspect the body and engine for dents and cracks – a cracked chassis can compromise
  safety.
*Any side of fadedness or rust may indicate that the machine has been left out in the
  elements, which will shorten its’ lifespan.
*If possible, obtain a brochure or manual for a new machine of the same model you’re
  looking to purchase. You can then compare external parts such as mud flaps, knobs and
  hubcaps to see if any are missing.
*DO NOT operate a second-hand mower with a missing or damaged muffler, safety
  guards, shields or switches. To do so would be to compromise your safety.
*Check the condition of the blades – a mower with bent or blunt blades should not be
  sold unless the prior owner informs you about this.
*Check the blade belt for signs of wear and tear
*Try and purchase a mower that has been serviced and maintained regularly. Ask for
  paperwork to verify this.
*If possible, try and go for a mower that doesn’t seem to have a great deal of use under
  its’ belt. One strategy to employ is to inspect the size of the seller’s yard and use this as
  a benchmark.
*Many models of zero turn lawnmowers have added accessories such as arm-rests,
  recycling kits, twin baggers and mulch kits – if any or all of these are included with a
  second-hand mower, you may get yourself a bargain.

In any case, knowing what to look for when buying a used zero turn lawnmower often requires little more than common sense – and can save you a lot of angst indeed.