Owning a self-propelled tracked lawn mower comes with a lot of benefits. Its stability on slopes and wet grass, combined with smooth maneuverability, makes lawn care much easier than with traditional wheeled mowers. But to keep your mower performing at its best—and to extend the life of its tracks—regular maintenance is essential. In this guide, we'll walk you through the key steps to keep your lawn mower’s tracks in top shape.
Regular Cleaning and Inspection
One of the simplest yet most important ways to protect your mower’s tracks is through regular cleaning and inspection. Tracks can easily accumulate mud, grass, and debris, which may cause uneven wear or even damage over time.
- Clean after each use: Remove clumps of wet grass, dirt, and debris that may have lodged between the tracks and the drive system. A garden hose or soft brush works well for this.
- Inspect for damage: Check for cracks in the rubber, worn treads, or loose components on the track assembly. Early detection can prevent more serious problems down the line.
- Set a routine: Depending on how often you mow, aim to clean and inspect your tracks at least once a week or after heavy use.
Track Tension Adjustment of Your Lawn
We’ll use the AHM 21" Remote Control Lawn Mower to illustrate how to test and how to retighten the tracks. Keep in mind that track tension procedures may vary depending on the mower model, so always check your specific mower’s manual before making adjustments.
Part 1 Testing the Tension
To ensure safe use, regularly test the track tension as follows:
1. Place a tape measure (not included) at the center of a track’s top section and then slide it down.
2. Position a force gauge (not included) near the tape measure’s point on the track, ensuring that they are well aligned and vertical to the track.
3. Press down on the gauge until it reads 13.5 lbf (60 N). If the pressed point sags at 0.6 inches (15 mm) or more, the track is loose and MUST be retightened before further use.
Part 2 Retightening a Track
1. Reposition the loose track until it is well aligned with its wheels. If necessary, elevate and support the whole mower using jack stands or other appropriate tools beforehand.
2. On either the front or rear wheel, loosen the axle nuts at both sides using an adjustable wrench.
3. Loosen the inner nut on the tension bolt in the same fashion.
4. Tighten the outer nut using your wrench, which pushes the tension bolt and wheel outwards to tighten the track. Meanwhile, the inner nut is moving back as the tension bolt goes.
5. Test the track tension as described above.
A sag of 0.3–0.5 inches (8–12 mm) is the optimal range for the correct track tension. If the sag exceeds the range, loosen the inner nut and continue to tighten the outer nut to increase the tension. If it is less than the range, loosen the outer nut and retighten the inner nut to reduce the tension. DO NOT overtighten.
It may require multiple attempts to achieve your ideal tension. Fine-tune the nuts one by one until they both return to the slot in between.
6. When finished, FULLY retighten the inner and axle nuts to secure the track in place. If necessary, adjust the tension bolt on the other wheel following the same steps.
Lubrication and Moving Parts Care
Lubricating the moving parts of your track system can significantly reduce wear and keep your mower running smoothly.
- Use the right lubricant: Choose a lubricant recommended for rubber and metal components to avoid damaging the tracks.
- Avoid over-lubrication: Too much lubricant can attract dirt and debris, which defeats the purpose of maintenance.
- Check regularly: Inspect the wheels and axles periodically and apply lubricant as needed to keep everything moving freely.
Recommended Mower: AHM 21" Remote Control Lawn Mower
If you’re looking to upgrade your lawn care routine, the AHM 21" Remote Control Lawn Mower is a top choice:
- Hybrid Power: Rechargeable battery combined with a 5 hp 4-stroke engine.
- Slope Friendly: Handles inclines up to 45° with ease.
- Effortless Coverage: Can mow up to 0.25 acres per session.
- Adjustable Cutting Height: 0.4" to 5", easily controlled via remote.
- Zero-Turn Capability: Navigate around obstacles smoothly.
Tired of wrestling with your lawn every weekend? This mower makes yard work simple, efficient, and even enjoyable.
Conclusion
Taking the time to clean, inspect, lubricate, and adjust your lawn mower’s tracks may seem simple, but it makes a big difference in longevity and performance. Regular maintenance keeps your mower running smoothly, prevents costly repairs, and makes lawn care less stressful. By making track care part of your routine, you can enjoy a healthier lawn and a mower that stays in top condition for years to come.
