Common Husqvarna Zero Turn Mower Problems and Fixes
The most common Husqvarna problems include choking issues, hydro issues, vibrations, deck belt issues, mower mowing reverse on its own and many more.
With this article, I will make your decision a bit easier by explaining the Husqvarna Zero Turn Mower Problems and Fixes. So, read on entirely before going for that purchase!
What Are The Husqvarna Zero Turn Mower Problems and Their Solutions?
As a Husqvarna zero-turn mower owner, you should be familiar with common issues and their solutions.
1. Husqvarna Zero Turn Starting Issues
After around for years with a Husky, owners reported that they always had to choke it to start. This happens irrespective of whether the mower is sitting for a while or is turned off.
You see this, especially with the models like MZ61. Sometimes, it will start without choking. But it will be really hot. You will need to choke it once it cools.
Moreover, the Husky might die every time you take the brake off.
The Fix
- The brake problem almost certainly indicates a problem with a safety switch. Check the cables under the seat to ensure they are plugged in and not damaged.
- It’s also possible that the brake switch isn’t releasing when you let go of the brake.
- Do the basic battery, starter wires, starter, fuel levels, and other checkups too. This is very generic and make replacements or refuel whenever needed.
2. Hydro Issues
A common Husky thing is that the mower’s left side becomes weaker as it warms up. This is consistent with a worn hydro.
It may be on the right side too. Whichever side it is, see if the fan on that side is slowing down under load too.
You may notice that the input pulley is not turning at the right speed. The belt, however, doesn’t slip even though the pulley doesn’t move.
The Fix
- Try purging the air from both hydros. Especially the one on the weaker side. However, doing both is good practice.
- Then drain and replace the hydro fluid on that side. Again, it’s better to do both sides for long-term success.
- If it isn’t set up for in-place fluid changes, you will need to remove the hydro.
- Another thing you can do is to replace the idlers and the belt, see if it works.
3. Excess Vibrations
Husqvarna has had a bad reputation for excessive vibrations. These might be caused by a worn belt or incorrect belt tension as well as a bent deck.
Apparently, it’s quite easy to hurt the deck so that it gets bent.
The Fix
- Make sure that the tensioner pulley in the back is not bouncing up and down due to being loose. Tighten the bolt that holds the tensioner arm pivot.
- By the end of this, the tensioner should only move horizontally and not vertically.
- If you’re facing problems in tightening it, disassemble the tensioner pivot and inspect the parts.
- Check for worn-outs or holes in any part. Immediately replace it if you find something like that.
- Check for a missing tension spring. Get a new one if you see it missing.
- Now thoroughly inspect the belts. Even a small wear might cause a belt to skip. This would cause those small vibrations and ultimately poor cut quality.
- Replace damaged belts.
4. Steering Alignment Issues
The steering rod is held with a small clip, which gets worn out and the lever disengages from the Husqvarna steering knuckle arm.
This causes the levers to not respond uniformly. They also do not return to neutral on their own.
Besides, the mower goes to turn even when in neutral.
The Fix
- Replace the rod if the joint is worn.
- You can also try this: remove the ball stud and weld the rod end/heim joint to the end of the steering shaft. Then bolt it to the steering arm.
- Both steering arms under the seat can be adjusted by lifting the unit’s wheels off the ground and determining if they are “creeping” when the unit is running.
- Set the linkage such that neither wheel crawls. Then change the tracking by rotating the screws at the bottom of the steering levers.
- To keep everything tight insert spring washers in there.
- Apply some penetrating oil to the pivot bolt.
5. Transmission Issues
The Husqvarna mower makes a horrible noise when attempting to move forward. However, it doesn’t move but only appears to do so. As if it would try but something was stopping it.
You may also notice that the back left tire tries to turn backward. If you push the tire ahead, the right tire might spin backward.
The Fix
- It might be a stuck brake if you have a belt drive gearbox with a large pulley on top. Take the necessary measures to clear it.
- However, one of the input bevel gears may be entangled with the internal half-shaft.
- The transmission is belt-driven, and the “brake” pedal simply disengages the belt as it gets loose over time. Try cleaning the area around the brake pedal.
Where to Buy Quality Replacement Parts for Husqvarna Zero Turn Mowers
You realize from the discussion so far that Husqvarna needs many replacement parts. But it is quite tricky to maintain that balance between the OEM parts and aftermarket ‘quality’ parts. Here are the safest places you can buy the OEM parts from;
- Husqvarna Authorized dealer in your nearest convenience is what you should rely on.
- Husqvarna’s website is also a good source. However, the cost and the availability of the exact part you need may be the issue.
- Your local lawn and garden stores might be selling that exact part you need in a much cheaper price.
- Amazon, eBay and other trustworthy online shops may also be a source of aftermarket parts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should I do if my Husqvarna is leaving uncut strips of grass?
Dull blades, an uneven cutting deck, or mowing too quickly can cause this to happen.
Why does my Husqvarna zero-turn mower stall during operation?
Husqvarna stalling can be caused by a dirty air filter, a clogged fuel system, or electrical problems.
How often should I change the oil in my Husqvarna zero-turn mower?
Change the oil every 25 hours of operation or at the start of each mowing season.
Can I use ethanol-blended fuel in my Husqvarna mower?
Yes, it’s possible to use ethanol-blended fuels. But the recommended blend is no more than 10% ethanol (E10) to avoid potential engine performance issues.
