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Greenworks Lawnmower Drive & Cutting Problems. With Fixes

Greenworks offers respectable lawnmower products at a relatively affordable price. Despite their utility, it’s common for lawnmowers to encounter issues that might impede their performance. However, having the essential know-how to locate the exact source of the problem can better help you fix them as they come along. Let’s learn how to do that in this article.

Greenworks Lawnmower Cutting & Drive Problems:

If the cutting ability of your Greenworks lawnmower has declined, examine the lawnmower’s cutting blades and their edges. Common issues with them include blunt edges, unusual blade wear, and loosely mounted blades. Also, check the mowing deck, which should be leveled at all edges. If the drive belt is damaged, worn out, or loose, this will disrupt power distribution and cause your lawnmower to vibrate or stop moving forward. 

Whether you are a new or an experienced user, learn how to fix a Greenworks lawnmower by following the step-by-step instructions in this article.

Greenworks Lawnmowers: Troubleshooting Cutting Problems

It would be best if you inspected the mowing deck and the blades for signs of wear every once in a season to ensure the smooth operation of your lawnmower. Let’s discuss some of the issues regarding the cutting performance of a lawnmower (be it riding or push mower). 

1. Greenworks Lawnmower Doesn’t Cut Straight.

Following are some reasons why your mower is unable to cut grass in straight rows: 

1. Unequal Tire Pressure:

Tire pressure is the first thing to be examined in this case. Low tire pressure is one of the causes of an uneven cut. The deck will not be equally level on all sides due to low tire pressure and sit lower on that side.

You can check the pressure in your tires using a pressure gauge, which must match the recommendations on the sidewall. Continue to the next steps if the issue remains.

2. Dull or Worn Mower Blades:

Due to dull or worn blade tips, grass strips may be left uncut between your blades when they spin under the mower deck. The blade’s leading edge can also wear out. When this occurs, the blade doesn’t produce the air circulation and vacuum necessary for a clean cut. 

Blades can rust when exposed to dirt for an extended period. As a result of this wear, your blade’s edges may become blunt and rounded. In this case, you should take the blades out and sharpen them. Sharpening lawnmower blades is usually done using a bench grinder.

After sharpening, check the balance of the blade. Proceed to the following step if sharpening still doesn’t fix the problem.

3. Unbalanced Blades:

When a blade is unbalanced, it wobbles as it spins along the shaft. This may occur due to uneven wear or when the blade is sharpened, removing more metal from one side than the other.

Blade vibrations from the high rotational speed could harm the spindle bearings. Use a blade balancer to check your lawnmower blade’s balance before installation to find out. You can hang your blade on a nail in the wall if you don’t have one of these instruments.

Changing this blade with a new one is advised if the blade balance needs to be corrected significantly. Small changes can be done with a bench or manual grinder.

4. Defective Spindle Bearings:

Your blade may wobble when turning under the deck if you have a faulty spindle or a bad bearing, resulting in a squeaking noise and an uneven cut.

By squeezing one end and moving it back and forth, listen for a knocking sound to see if the blades are imbalanced. It’s usually a sign that the spindle bearing is probably damaged when you detect some play or hear a sound.

Remove your mower’s blade and spindle housing to look for bearing or spindle damage. Replace any broken or worn out components. If this is your first time doing this, and you are unsure how to do this, ask a professional for help.

2. Greenworks Lawnmower Cuts Uneven Grass Patterns?

Your mower is unevenly cutting grass for the following reasons:

1. Dull Blades:

Inspect the blades to see any bluntness or dullness. If they appear blunt, sharpen or replace them if worn beyond sharpening. If the blade is damaged, I recommend replacing it.

2. Poorly Adjusted Cutting Deck:

Utilize a level gauge and adjustment screws to ensure the deck’s height remains level at all edges. This is one of the reasons some grass blades are trimmed shorter than the rest.

2. Deck Belt Wear: 

The cutting may be uneven if the belts that drive the blade shaft are worn out. This can also result in the mower vibrating as it moves. You may need to remove the deck and inspect the belts for wear and tear.

3. Abrupt Speed changes

Sudden changes in cutting pace might also produce uneven grass patterns. As you operate the lawn mower, keep a steady, even pace. Try to avoid hurrying or abruptly slowing down.

3. Greenworks Lawnmower Doesn’t Cut at All?

If the mower is not cutting grass at all, you need to follow the following steps: 

– Check the Blade Lever:  

First, inspect if the blade engagement lever is engaged properly. The blade engagement lever pulls the blade clutch cable, which spins the blades. If the lever is not in the engaged position, the blades won’t rotate and won’t cut the grass. 

The clutch cable may occasionally become jammed by debris or grass clippings. Tilt the mower over and detach the mowing deck to check the cable. Make sure that the cable can engage and disengage freely.

– Worn-Out Blade Belt:

The pulley driving the spindle may not be gripped by a worn-out belt, restricting the blades from cutting grass. Additionally, this could cause jerks or vibrations that lead to uneven cuts. Always check the blade belt frequently and replace it when it becomes worn to avoid this.

– Locked-Up Mandrel Assembly:

The blade is spun by the mandrel assembly attached to the deck to cut the grass. If the mandrel locks up, the blade won’t move. A broken mandrel could also cause the mower deck to vibrate and cut unevenly. 

The mandrels should be routinely inspected to see whether they require replacement. I recommend contacting a specialist to disassemble and replace the mandrel assembly.

Greenworks Riding Lawnmowers: Troubleshooting Drive Problems

Let’s discuss some of the drive-related problems that are specific for a riding lawnmower. 

1. Riding Lawnmower Doesn’t Move Forward.

Lawnmowers with worn drive belts, faulty transmission, or flat tires won’t move forward. 

First, you should make sure that the motor has started already. If the motor doesn’t start, check that the battery isn’t dead (if the mower has been sitting for a while).

After the motor has started and the lawnmower still doesn’t move forward, follow the mentioned steps.

1. Brake and Clutch Levers:

If the lawnmower doesn’t move after the motor has started, you should first ensure that the brake and clutch levers are set correctly. Most riding lawnmowers have safety brakes and clutch levers that must be engaged for the mower to move forward.

If the mower still doesn’t move, proceed to the next step.

2. Check the Drive Belt: 

The driving belt differs from the blade belt. The drive belt drives the axle pulley, which rotates the lawnmower’s wheels and causes it to move. Over time, the belt’s teeth might wear out and become loose. As a result, the power transfer to the wheels is affected.

The problem can be fixed by replacing the old drive belt with a new one. 

3. Transmission:

In most cases, fixing the drive belt resolves the issue. In very rare cases, the problem may lie with the transmission instead.

Riding lawnmowers with hydrostatic drive transmission requires hydraulic oil to be filled promptly. Lack of timely lubrication affects the performance, which may result in drive problems. In a manual transmission, the gearbox assembly might need inspection.

For this step, seeking a mechanic’s aid is recommended, as you may have limited tools and expertise for this disassembly.

2. Riding Lawnmower Has a Loose Steering?

If the steering is loose, your lawnmower will be difficult to turn and control. The following steering parts must be examined to solve the problem.

a. Steering Linkage: 

The steering linkage, tire rods, and steering wheel should all be checked for dirt buildup and signs of wear. Perform lubrication using WD-40 where needed (other than the bearings). If you notice, tighten any loose connections. If disassembly is necessary for these repairs, consult a professional.

b. Shaft adjustment: 

The steering shaft should be inspected to determine any play between the shaft and the steering. This could be due to loose fasteners or missing keys.

Note: If you are performing these repairs for the first time, seek assistance from a technician.

3. Riding Lawnmower Has a Flat Tire?

Your riding lawn mower may become immobile due to a flat tire until it is fixed. The solution to this is as follows:

  • Find the Puncture Site: Take it off, Inflate the flat tire with a pump, and place it in a tub of water. Look to see if any air bubbles are escaping. This is where your tire has a puncture.
  • Repair the Puncture: You can get a comprehensive puncture repair kit to repair the damaged area. Apply the patch, put pressure on the tire, and leave the tire like that for about 20 minutes.
  • Pump Up the Tire: After applying the patch, pump up the tire again to the minimum pressure rating indicated on the tire.

Greenworks Self-Propelled Lawnmowers: Troubleshooting Drive Problems

Self-propelled lawnmowers require steering by the operator instead of riding them like tractors. Let’s discuss troubleshooting specific drive problems that the self-propelled lawnmower may face. 

1. Self-Propelled Lawnmower Doesn’t Go Forward.

Here are a few solutions to counter this problem:

  • Engage the Drive Control: If the drive control lever or button isn’t activated, the lawnmower will not advance. After pulling the lever, ensure that the problem has been resolved. If not, go to the step.
  • Driver Belts: To restore the drive performance of the lawnmower, a worn out, loosened, or damaged drive belt may need to be replaced. Examine the belt for any indications of slackness or wear at the teeth. If your belt is worn out or damaged, you should buy a new one.
  • Inspect the Wheels: If the issue is still present, inspect the wheels to check for any dirt that may have become trapped within the wheels and axle. Remove all dirt and lawn clippings from the wheels and the axle. Confirm that the wheels may rotate freely and are not loose at the axle.

Drive & Cutting Troubleshooting table

1. Lawnmower Cutting Problems

S#
Problem
Causes
Fixes
1
Lawnmower doesn’t cut straight
a. Dull blades
b. Tilted mowing deck
a. Sharpen the blades using a grinder or a bench file.
b. Using a level, ensure the deck is perfectly horizontal.
2
Lawnmower cuts uneven grass
a. Blade vibrations
b. Faulty spindle assembly
a. Ensure the blade isn’t loose.
b. The blade should be balanced at its center. If not, it should be replaced. c. The spindle bearing should be replaced if it is faulty.
3
Lawnmower doesn’t cut at all
a. Disengaged blades
b. Debris/Grass clippings
c. Worn-out belt
a. Use the blade engagement lever.
b. Clean the spindle from debris and grass clippings.
c. Replace/adjust the blade belt as needed.

2. Lawnmower Drive Problems

Riding Lawnmowers

S#
Problem
Causes
Fixes
1
Lawnmower doesn’t move forward
a. Transmission disengaged
b. Faulty drive belt
c. No hydraulic fluid
a. Use the transaxle lever to engage the drive.
b. Adjust/replace the drive belt as needed.
c. Replenish transmission fluid.
2
The lawnmower has a loose steering
a. Loose tie rod ends
b. Damaged steering bushing
a. Tighten and lubricate tie rod ends.
b. Inspect and replace the bushing at the end of the steering shaft.
3
Lawnmower vibrates excessively
a. Blade imbalance/wobbling around the center
b. Damaged spindle bearing
c. Missing engine mounts
a. Tighten and adjust the blade to balance about its center.
b. Replace the faulty spindle bearing.
c. Tighten the engine’s mounting by adding fasteners.
4
The lawnmower has a flat tire
a. Low air pressure
b. Puncture by a sharp object
a. Purchase a puncture repair kit.
b. Apply the puncture seal and inflate the tire again.

Self-Propelled Lawnmowers

S#
Problem
Causes
Fixes
1
Lawnmower doesn’t move forward
a. Loose control cable
b. Worn-out drive belt
c. Debris locking wheels
a. Tighten the throttle control cable
b. Adjust/replace the belt as necessary.
c. Remove the debris from the wheels.
2
The lawnmower throttle not working
a. Defective throttle cable
b. Clogged carburetor
The lawnmower throttle is not working
3
The lawnmower pull cord is stuck
a. Damaged spiral spring
b. Damaged pull cord
Replace the damaged springs/pull cord.
  1. Mae Murphy says:

    I will definitely be using these tips to maintain my lawnmower better.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thanks for reading! I’m glad you found the tips helpful. Remember to maintain your lawnmower regularly to keep it in top shape. Happy mowing!

  2. Heidi Myers says:

    Can I change the blade balance myself?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Yes, you can change the blade balance yourself. Use a blade balancer or hang the blade on a nail to check balance before installation. Consider replacing the blade if the balance is significantly off.

  3. Darrell Simpson says:

    How do I know if my mower blades are dull or worn out?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Darrell, if your Greenworks lawnmower is struggling to cut properly, it may be due to dull or worn blades. Check the blade edges for wear and consider sharpening or replacing them.

  4. Mildred Shaw says:

    Great tips on troubleshooting common lawnmower issues.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Mildred. I’m glad you found the tips helpful for troubleshooting lawnmower issues. Let me know if you have any questions or need further assistance.

  5. Mia Kim says:

    This article was very informative, thank you!

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for the positive feedback, Mia! I’m glad you found the article informative. Let me know if you have any other questions or need further assistance.

  6. Dana Freeman says:

    What should I do if my Greenworks lawnmower doesn’t move forward?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      If your Greenworks lawnmower is not moving forward, check the drive belt for damage or wear. A faulty drive belt can disrupt power distribution. If needed, replace the drive belt for optimal performance.

  7. Gloria Simpson says:

    Is it easy to replace a drive belt on a self-propelled lawnmower?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Replacing a drive belt on a Greenworks self-propelled lawnmower can be a manageable task if you follow the instructions carefully. Check out our step-by-step guide on how to do it!

  8. Bob Bryant says:

    I would love to see more articles like this on lawnmower maintenance.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for your feedback, Bob. I’m glad you enjoyed the article on lawnmower maintenance. Stay tuned for more helpful tips on keeping your Greenworks lawnmower in top condition.

  9. Billy Walters says:

    Is it normal for my lawnmower to vibrate while in use?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Yes, vibrations are normal while using a lawnmower. Ensure your cutting blades are sharp, deck is leveled, and drive belt is in good condition. Keep up with maintenance to ensure smooth operation.

  10. Isaac Gutierrez says:

    The article was easy to understand and follow, great job!

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Isaac! I’m glad you found the article informative and easy to follow. Let me know if you have any other questions or need further assistance.

  11. Brandie Smith says:

    Very helpful guide for fixing my lawnmower issues.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Brandie! I’m glad the guide was helpful to you in fixing your lawnmower issues. Let me know if you have any other questions, happy mowing!

  12. Dolores Bates says:

    It would be helpful to have a troubleshooting flowchart for quick reference.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for the suggestion, Dolores. I’ll work on creating a troubleshooting flowchart for quick reference. Stay tuned for updates on the blog post.

  13. Debra Lee says:

    I appreciate the step-by-step instructions provided in the article.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for your feedback, Debra Lee! I’m glad you found the step-by-step instructions helpful. Let me know if you have any more questions or need further assistance.

  14. Dennis Fisher says:

    How often should I sharpen my lawnmower blades?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Dennis, you should sharpen your lawnmower blades at least once a year to ensure a clean cut. Check for unique wear, loose mounting, and balance issues.

  15. Shannon Gregory says:

    What are the signs that indicate my blade belt is worn out?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Inspect the drive belt for signs of wear, damage, or looseness. A worn-out or damaged belt can disrupt power distribution, leading to issues with the lawnmower’s performance.

  16. Duane Mitchelle says:

    What tools do I need to troubleshoot my lawnmower’s cutting problems?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      To troubleshoot cutting problems on your lawnmower, you may need a blade balancer, a pressure gauge for your tires, a bench grinder to sharpen blades, and possibly a new blade or drive belt.

  17. Edwin Perry says:

    I wish there were more visuals included in the article.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for your feedback, Edwin. I will work on incorporating more visuals in future articles. Your input is valuable.

  18. Isaiah White says:

    Why is it important to check the tire pressure for a straight cut?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      It’s important to check tire pressure for a straight cut because low tire pressure can cause an uneven cut due to the deck not being level. This step should be done before examining other possible reasons.

  19. Victoria Fox says:

    I never knew how important checking the blade balance was, thanks for the info!

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for your feedback, Victoria! We’re glad you found the information on blade balance helpful. Happy mowing!

  20. Bessie Patterson says:

    How can I adjust my cutting deck on a riding lawnmower?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      To adjust the cutting deck on your riding lawnmower, make sure to keep the deck leveled at all edges and check for any loose or damaged components. Refer to the manufacturer’s manual for specific instructions.

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