I bought a zt1 about 4 months ago and the first several mows were like a dream come true but the last 3 mows I seem to have developed an issue with leaving windrows in the mow path. I have replaced the blades, adjusted the deck height and changed my speed and none of that resolves the issue. I am up to 3-4 passes to make it look right. Anyone else have this issue or know what the cause is and how to fix it?
Get out your operators manual and read it thoroughly. Especially, the part about leveling and pitching the mower deck. The tires should be aired up to the recommended pressures before leveling the deck.
Decks & blades need to be matched to the type of grass & terrain of your lawn.
First I might ask are you sure the blades are not on upside down ?
Over te years decks have gotten shorter so blade overlaps have reduced
Way back a 42" deck would have 2 x 21 1/2" blades
Now most are just 21" to 21 1/8" no effective overlap .
I would say you only get the quality that you pay for but people think I am being a cruel Smart ass.
MTD are the very bottom of the pile quality wise and rapidly dragging Cub to the bottom with them.
I will add to what I said earlier. Cutting grass that is too wet and too high will give you a windrow effect.
1: Adjust the pressure in your tires to the manufacturers recommendation.
2: Level and pitch the deck as described in the operators manual
3: Sharp blades and a deck that’s clean underneath.
4: Mow at full throttle
5: Mow every seven days maximum.
6: Know your grass type and cut at the height that is recommended.
7: Match your mower size to the area that you will be mowing.
