Do you have a problem with your lawn looking scalped after you mow it? If so, you may need to add anti-scalp wheels to your mower deck. These small wheels help to redistribute the weight of the mower across the entire deck, which prevents the blades from cutting too deeply into the turf. In this blog post, we will discuss how to add anti-scalp wheels to your mower deck and show you some tips on how to get the best results!
What are Anti-Scalp Wheels?
Anti-scalp wheels are small plastic or metal wheels that are mounted on the outside of the mower deck. These wheels help to redistribute the weight of the mower across the entire deck, which prevents the blades from cutting too deeply into the turf. Anti-scalp wheels are an important part of any lawn mower, as they can help to prevent your lawn from being scalped.
There are two types of anti-scalp wheels: fixed and adjustable. Fixed anti-scalp wheels are mounted in a fixed position on the mower deck and cannot be adjusted. Adjustable anti-scalp wheels can be moved up or down on the mower deck, which allows you to adjust the depth at which the blades cut into the turf.
Why Use Anti-Scalp Wheels?
Anti-scalp wheels are an important part of any lawn mower, as they can protect your lawn from being scalped. Scalping occurs when the blades of the lawn mower cut too deeply into the turf, which can cause bare patches and brown spots. Anti-scalp wheels help to redistribute the weight of the mower across the entire deck, which avoids deep cutting while still providing a clean cut.
In addition to protecting your lawn from scalping, anti-scalp wheels can also help to improve the quality of your cut. By redistributing the weight of the mower, they help to avoid ruts and divots in your lawn. This results in a cleaner, healthier lawn that is less likely to experience problems such as bare patches and brown spots.
How to Add Anti-Scalp Wheels to Your Mower Deck
Adding anti-scalp wheels to your mower deck is a relatively simple process that can be completed in a few minutes. Below, we run you through a step-by-step guide on how to add anti-scalp wheels to your mower deck.
Step #1: Park the Mower
Before you can begin this process, you will need to park the mower on a level surface. Once the mower is parked, engage the parking brake and turn off the engine. This step is often overlooked, but it is important to ensure that the mower is completely safe before you begin working on it. Failure to do so could result in serious injury.
Step #2: Remove the Mower Deck
With the mower turned off and parked on a level surface, you can now remove the mower deck. This process will vary depending on your specific model of lawn mower, so consult your owner’s manual for instructions. In most cases, you will need to remove the bolts that hold the deck in place. Once the bolts are removed, you can lift the deck off of the mower.
Step #3: Attach the Anti-Scalp Wheels
With the mower deck removed, you can now attach the anti-scalp wheels. Again, this process will vary depending on your specific model of lawn mower. Most models will have brackets that the wheels can be attached to. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on how to attach the wheels to your particular model of mower.
Step #4: Reattach the Mower Deck
Once the anti-scalp wheels are in place, you can now reattach the mower deck. This process is typically the reverse of removing the deck, so consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions. In most cases, you will need to bolt the deck back into place.
Step #5: Test It Out
Before you put away your tools and call it a day, it is important to test out your new anti-scalp wheels. To do this, simply engage the parking brake and turn on the engine. Slowly drive the mower across your lawn, paying close attention to how the wheels are performing. If they seem to be working properly, you can put away your tools and enjoy your newly scalp-free lawn!
Do Anti-Scalp Wheels Work?
If you are a cautious buyer, it is normal to be skeptical of products that claim to be able to solve problems. In the case of anti-scalp wheels, it is important to remember that they are not a miracle solution that will completely eliminate scalping. However, they are an effective way to reduce the risk of scalping and improve the quality of your cut.
There are a few things you can do to get the most out of your anti-scalp wheels. First, make sure that they are properly inflated. This will help to ensure that they provide adequate support for the mower deck. Second, be sure to adjust the height of the wheels regularly. This will ensure that they remain effective in preventing scalping. Finally, be sure to check them frequently for wear and tear. Replacing them when they become worn will help to ensure that they continue to perform at their best.
Anti-scalp wheels are a great way to improve the quality of your lawn mower deck and protect your lawn from scalping. By following the steps above, you can easily add them to your mower deck and enjoy a healthier, better-looking lawn, and yes, with the right care, they do work!
Should Anti-Scalp Wheels Touch the Ground?
One of the most common questions we get about anti-scalp wheels is whether or not they should touch the ground. The answer to this question is that it depends on your lawn. If you have a very level lawn, you may find that the wheels do not need to touch the ground in order to provide adequate protection from scalping. However, if your lawn has a lot of hills or uneven patches, you may find that the wheels need to touch the ground in order to prevent scalping.
The best way to determine whether or not your anti-scalp wheels need to touch the ground is to simply test them out. Start by engaging the parking brake and turning on the engine. Then, slowly drive the mower across your lawn, paying close attention to how the wheels are performing. If they seem to be working properly, you can put away your tools and enjoy your newly scalp-free lawn! However, if you find that the wheels are not touching the ground in some areas, you may need to adjust their height.
How Do I Stop My Zero Turn Mower From Scalping?
If you have a zero-turn mower, you may be wondering how to prevent it from scalping your lawn. The good news is that there are a few things you can do to reduce the risk of scalping.
For homeowners operating a zero-turn mower, there are a few things you can do to reduce the risk of scalping:
- Always engage the parking brake before starting the engine.
- Start with the blade disengaged and slowly drive the mower across your lawn.
- Pay close attention to how the wheels are performing and adjust their height as needed.
- Check the wheels regularly for wear and tear.
How Much Do Anti-Scalp Wheels Cost?
The cost of anti-scalp wheels will vary depending on the type of wheel and the manufacturer. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $30 to $100 for a set of four wheels. When comparing prices, be sure to consider the quality of the wheels as well as the shipping and handling costs.
Similarly, ensure that they are the right size for your mower deck. Wheels that are too small may not provide adequate protection from scalping, while wheels that are too large may make it difficult to maneuver the mower.
When shopping for anti-scalp wheels, be sure to compare prices and shipping costs from different retailers. You can find a great deal on anti-scalp wheels by taking the time to shop around or even buying used wheels from a reputable retailer.
Conclusion
As you can see, adding anti-scalp wheels to your mower deck is a relatively simple process that can be completed in just a few minutes. This quick and easy upgrade will help to protect your lawn from scalping, ruts, and divots while also providing a cleaner cut. So if you’re looking for an easy way to improve the quality of your lawn, consider adding anti-scalp wheels to your mower deck today!
