Do you own a Dixon zero-turn mower? If so, then you know they are among the best on the market. Dixon zero turn mower offers excellent performance and great value.
Dixon zero turn mowers, however, can occasionally experience issues or need routine maintenance to be in good operating order, just like any other machine.
Common Dixon zero-turn mower problems include clogged fuel filters, worn spark plugs, a dirty air filter, or a malfunctioning carburetor. In some cases, you may also experience electrical or mechanical issues.
In this article, we’ll look at some of the most typical Dixon zero-turn mower issues and discuss what you can do to help fix them.
The Most Common Problems with Dixon Zero-Turn Mower
Table of Contents
Owner of a Dixon zero-turn mower? You know that they’re built tough and made to last. However, even the best mowers can have problems from time to time.
Let’s review some typical Dixon zero-turn mower issues and solutions.
1. The Mower Won’t Start.
If your Dixon zero-turn mower’s engine doesn’t start, you should check the oil level first.
Add oil to the car if the oil level is low until the oil on the dipstick shows as full. Check the fuel lines and ensure they are correctly connected and that there is enough fuel in the tank.
If the oil level is normal, the spark plug is the next thing to check. Remove the spark plug and inspect it for damage. If it looks damaged or fouled, clean it or replace it as needed.
If those are clean and in good condition, the problem may be with the carburetor, and you will need to take it to a professional for service.
2. The Blades Won’t Engage
If the blades on your Dixon zero-turn mower won’t engage, there are a few possible causes.
First, check to see if the PTO switch is turned on. If not, flip the switch to the “on” position and see if that does the trick. If not, then the next thing to check is the PTO clutch itself.
Remove the PTO clutch and inspect it for damage. If it’s damaged, you’ll need to replace it.
3. The Mower Blades Won’t Turn.
If the blades on your Dixon zero-turn mower won’t turn, you’ll need to check the blade belt. This is a common issue and can be fixed easily.
Start by inspecting the blade belt for any tearing or fraying that could have occurred over time. If it’s worn out, you’ll need to replace it with a new one.
Next, ensure that all the pulleys are spinning freely and not stuck due to debris or rust. If they are sticking, clean them off until they spin smoothly again.
Finally, check if all blade bolts are tight and properly secured.
4. The Mower Cuts Unevenly.
Several factors, such as dull blades, uneven tire pressure, or an incorrect deck height setting, can cause uneven cutting.
Remove them from the mower to check for dull blades and inspect their edges. You should replace them with a new set if they are dull or nicked.
To check for misaligned blades, use a flat surface to ensure that all of the blades are level and parallel. Make any necessary adjustments until they are properly aligned.
Tire pressure should also be checked to ensure that all tires are at the same pressure and inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.
Finally, check the deck height setting and ensure it is set correctly for a smooth cut.
You can get your mower back up and running by troubleshooting these common Dixon zero-turn mower problems in no time! If any of these issues prove too difficult for you to handle, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance.
5. The Mower Vibrates Excessively.
Several factors, such as bent blades, an unbalanced deck, or worn-out engine mounts, can cause excessive vibration.
To check for bent blades, remove them from the mower and inspect them for bends or nicks. If any are found, you should replace them with a new set.
Next, check to see if the deck is level and not leaning in one direction. If it appears off-balance, use shims to level the deck until it is even again.
Finally, check the engine mounts and ensure they are securely attached to the mower’s frame. Worn-out engine mounts can cause excessive vibration, so if they appear worn out or loose, you’ll need to replace them with new ones.
6. The Engine Overheats Frequently.
Engine overheating can be caused by several factors, such as a dirty air filter, low oil level, or blockage in the cooling system.
To check for a dirty air filter, remove it from the mower and inspect it for dirt or debris. You should clean or replace it as needed if it’s soiled.
Next, check to ensure the oil level is at the proper level. If not, add more oil until the correct level has been reached.
Finally, inspect the cooling system for any blockages. If you find any clogs or debris in the system, clean it out until the cooling fins are clear and unobstructed.
With proper maintenance and regular checks of these potential issues, you can keep your Dixon zero-turn mower running smoothly for years to come!
7. The Transmission Slips.
Transmission slipping can be caused by several factors, such as low transmission fluid level, worn-out transmission belts, or damaged transmission gears.
To check for low transmission fluid, remove the dipstick and inspect it for any signs of bubbling or other damage. If the fluid is low, add more to reach the proper level.
Next, inspect the transmission belts for wear or damage. If they appear worn out or damaged, you may need to replace them with new ones.
Finally, check the transmission gears for any signs of wear or damage. If you find any, you may need to replace them to prevent further slips.
When in doubt, it’s best to take your mower to a professional mechanic. With regular maintenance and careful troubleshooting, your Dixon zero-turn mower should provide reliable use for many years.
8. The Brakes are Squealing.
This can be caused by several factors, such as improper brake shoe adjustment, glazed brake shoes, or contaminated brake pads.
Remove the wheel and inspect the brake pads to check for worn-out brake shoes. If they appear glazed or worn out, you should adjust them to a proper level according to your owner’s manual.
Next, ensure that no foreign objects are caught between the brake pads or shoe linings. If any debris is found, carefully clean it until the brakes are clear and functioning properly.
Finally, if your brakes are still squealing excessively, they have likely become contaminated with brake fluid or some other liquid. In this case, you should take your mower to a professional mechanic for cleaning and servicing.
9. The Wheels are Wobbling
Several factors, such as bent wheels, loose wheel bearings, or damaged suspension components, can cause wheel wobble.
To check for bent wheels, remove one of the front wheels and inspect it for bends or dents. If you find any damage, you should replace it with a new wheel as soon as possible.
Next, check the wheel bearings for excessive wobble. To do this, spin each wheel by hand and observe to see any noticeable wobble. If you notice any, the bearings will likely be lost and need to be tightened or replaced.
Finally, if the problem persists after checking for these issues, you may have damaged suspension components such as struts or springs. In this situation, it is recommended to get your mower serviced and repaired by a qualified mechanic.
10. The Engine Frequently Stalls while Driving
Low oil levels, dirty air filters, or fouled spark plugs can cause engine stalling.
To see how much oil is in the engine, pull out the dipstick and inspect it for any signs of bubbling. If the oil is low, add more to reach the proper level.
Next, make sure the air filters are clear of debris and clean. If you find any dirt or other contaminants, carefully clean them until the engine runs smoothly again.
Finally, the spark plugs may need to be replaced if your engine is constantly stalling. In this case, you should take your mower to a professional mechanic for servicing and repair.
Dixon Zero-turn Mower Problems: Are they a deal breaker?
As you can see, many potential problems can occur with Dixon zero-turn mowers. However, most of these problems have relatively simple solutions that you can do yourself without taking your mower to a shop.
One of the most common Dixon zero-turn mower problems is that the blades stop spinning. Numerous things, including a dull blade, a clogged air filter, or a problem with the belt, can cause this.
The solution is to sharpen the blade, clean or replace the air filter, and check the belt for wear and tear.
Another common problem is that the engine stalls. A dirty carburetor, old gas, or a faulty spark plug can cause this. The solution is to clean the carburetor, add fresh gas, or replace the spark plug.
Sometimes the mower will leave streaks or clumps of grass on the lawn. An uneven blade or incorrect blade height setting usually causes this. The solution is to adjust the blade height or sharpen the blades.
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your Dixon zero-turn mower in top condition and avoiding the most common problems. So check the fuel filter, spark plugs, air filter, and carburetor regularly for signs of wear or dirt buildup.
Additionally, inspect all cables and belts for damage, and keep the mower deck clean and clear of debris.
Remember, if you have any doubts about what’s wrong with your mower or how to fix it, consult your owner’s manual or take it to a qualified repair shop.
Marvin is an expert in farming equipment with a strong background in agricultural engineering. He graduated from Kansas State College of Agriculture, where he received a degree in Agricultural Engineering and specialized in farm equipment design and maintenance.
