more... > Equipment > Zero Turning Radius Mowers > Self-Propelled Spreaders And Sprayers For Turfgrass [Image: self-propelled spreader] A relatively new class of products in the commercial grounds maintenance industry is the self-propelled spreader and/or sprayer. This kind of equipment can potentially reduce the effort required to apply fertilizer or pesticides to lawns, but it comes at a substantial cost and will require some trade-offs in operating mode. Low Cost Zero Turning Radius Mowers for Home Lawns [Image: low cost ZTR mower] ZTR mowers have taken over the commercial riding mower market. In the past, there were few low-cost models available to homeowners, but this has changed. Low-cost homeowner models are now available from several companies. What Equipment Manufacturers Do To Reduce Rust Farm and grounds maintenance equipment is often exposed to rain, high humidity, fertilizer, pesticides and corrosive plant materials (such as grass clippings). The manufacturers of that equipment have taken steps to try to protect the equipment and reduce the potential for corrosion. Slippage With ZTR Mowers [Image: ZTR mower] ZTR (zero turning radius) riding mowers can do a wonderful job of maintaining turf, but the rapid response and maneuverability that make them so handy can cause problems if you aren’t careful.  more articles... Preventing Overturns With Zero-Turning-Radius Mowers [Image: ZTR mower with ROPS] Zero-turning-radius (ZTR) mowers are somewhat different from conventional tractors. Their short wheelbases and narrow wheel spacings can contribute to overturns. Mid-mount and Front-mount Decks on ZTR Mowers [Image: ZTR mower with mid-mount deck] Zero-turning-radius (ZTR) mowers are available in two configurations: mid-mount decks and front-mount decks. Each configuration has advantages and disadvantages, and each has proponents. ZTR Mower Maintenance [Image: air filter and prefilter] ZTR (zero turning radius) mowers, like all lawnmowers, operate in a dirty environment. Proper and regular maintenance is needed to keep your mower operating at top efficiency and minimize costly repairs and downtime. ZTR Mowers for Home Lawns [Image: ZTR mower] ZTR stands for "Zero Turning Radius." ZTR mowers have separate hydraulic pumps driving the left and right tires, and each side is controlled separately. One tire can be turning forward while the other is turning in reverse, thus the mower can pivot around its own center. This feature allows amazing versatility in trimming while mowing. New Features on ZTR Mowers [Image: oscillating front suspension] Zero-turning-radius (ZTR) mowers are popular among professionals and homeowners with larger lawns. ZTR manufacturers offer many new and/or optional features on their mowers that further increase their versatility and ease of use. Fire Safety Issue with Professional Turf Mowers [Image: ZTR mower with protected fuel tank] Some ZTR mowers are designed with a serious fire safety hazard. These models should be avoided. Safety Standards for Commercial-size Riding Mowers [Image: ZTR mower with ROPS] Commercial-size riding mowers, including the popular ZTR (zero turning radius) mowers, are covered by a safety standard promulgated by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Even though many of these mowers are used by homeowners, those that are designed primarily for commercial use are considered commercial machines and they fall under a commercial mower standard. Zero Turning Radius Mowers: Selection, Use, Maintenance & Safety [Image: mowers] This publication is intended to help you select the correct zero turning radius mower for your purpose, then use it and maintain it correctly and safely. (PDF Format Only)