When You Need to Lift Your Lawn Mower
Lifting a lawn mower is sometimes necessary for routine maintenance and repairs. Here are some common situations where you might need to lift your mower:
- Blade Maintenance – Sharpening, replacing, or inspecting the mower blades requires access to the underside of the mower deck.
- Cleaning the Undercarriage – Grass buildup can affect performance and even cause rust over time. Lifting the mower allows for proper cleaning.
- Changing the Drive Belt – Many riding and push mowers require lifting to access and replace worn-out drive belts.
- Checking or Replacing Wheels – If your mower’s wheels are worn, damaged, or misaligned, lifting the machine makes the job easier.
- Oil and Filter Changes – Some mowers require tilting or lifting for better drainage during oil changes.
The Dangers of Lifting a Mower Incorrectly
Lifting a lawn mower without proper precautions can lead to serious accidents. Understanding the right way to lift your mower will prevent injuries and damage. Here are some potential risks:
- Injury Risk – Lawn mowers are heavy, and improper lifting techniques can cause back strain, muscle pulls, or even crushed fingers and toes.
- Tip-Over Accidents – If the mower isn’t secured properly, it could tip over and cause damage or severe injury.
- Mower Damage – Lifting from the wrong points or using improper equipment could bend the frame or damage key components.
- Oil and Fuel Leaks – Tilting a mower incorrectly can cause oil or fuel leaks, which can lead to engine problems or fire hazards.
- Unstable Support – Using unsafe lifting methods, such as stacking bricks or makeshift ramps, increases the chances of the mower falling unexpectedly and causing significant (or even fatal injury).
To avoid these dangers, always use the right tools and techniques when lifting your mower.
Tools and Equipment You Can Use to Lift a Lawn Mower
Depending on the type of mower and maintenance needed, several tools can help lift your mower safely:
For Push Mowers:
- Jack Stands or Blocks – Used to prop up a push mower after tilting it.
- Lifting Straps – Can assist in manually lifting and securing the mower for cleaning.
For Riding and Zero-Turn Mowers:
- Mower Lifts (e.g., MoJack Lift) – A dedicated mower lift is one of the safest ways–and typically the easiest–to lift a riding mower for maintenance.
- Hydraulic or Scissor Jacks – Standard automotive jacks can be used but require extra safety precautions. Really, it’s best to avoid these altogether for many mowers.
- Ramps – Ideal for driving the mower onto an elevated surface for access underneath.
- Hoists or Winches – Used in garages with sufficiently sturdy overhead beams, these can lift heavy mowers securely.
Choosing the right equipment will make the process safer and more efficient.
How to Safely Lift a Riding Mower
Lifting a riding mower requires careful planning and the right equipment to ensure safety and prevent damage to both the mower and yourself. Before beginning, park the mower on a level surface, turn off the engine, and remove the key. It’s also a good idea to chock the rear wheels to prevent any movement while lifting.
The safest way to lift a riding mower is by using a dedicated mower lift, but if you’re using alternative methods, it’s crucial to locate the proper lifting points. The front axle or frame is typically the best place to position a jack or lifting tool. Never attempt to lift the mower from weak points such as the deck, as this could cause structural damage.
Once the mower is raised, ensure it is stable before performing any maintenance. If you’re using a jack or other lifting tool, always secure the mower with jack stands or another form of reinforcement before working underneath. Never rely solely on hydraulic jacks, as they can lose pressure over time, leading to a sudden drop.
Lowering the mower is just as important as lifting it. Slowly and carefully release the lifting mechanism, ensuring that the wheels touch the ground evenly to avoid tipping. Following these safety steps will help you perform maintenance with confidence and reduce the risk of injury.
Using a Mower Lift
Among all the ways to lift a riding mower, a dedicated mower lift is the most reliable and user-friendly option. Mower lifts, like those from MoJack, are specifically designed to handle the weight and shape of riding mowers and zero-turn mowers, making them the best choice for home and professional use.
A mower lift typically works by securing the front wheels onto wheel pads or brackets, allowing you to crank or pump the lift to elevate the mower safely. These lifts are designed to be sturdy and prevent tipping, ensuring a secure platform to work under. With adjustable height settings, they also provide better access than jacks or ramps, making tasks like blade sharpening and deck cleaning much easier.
One of the biggest advantages of using a mower lift is the added safety features, such as automatic locking mechanisms and solid construction that prevents sudden drops. Unlike car jacks or DIY solutions, a mower lift distributes weight evenly and minimizes risks associated with improper lifting techniques.
For anyone who performs regular maintenance, obtaining a MoJack lift is a game-changer. It eliminates the hassle of unstable jacks and risky lifting methods, providing a quick, efficient, and most importantly, safe way to access your mower’s undercarriage.
Alternative DIY Methods for Lifting a Mower
If a mower lift isn’t available, there are a few alternative methods to raise a riding mower, but they require extra caution. One common approach is using a hydraulic floor jack, similar to those used for cars. Position the jack under a sturdy part of the frame, carefully lift the mower, and immediately place jack stands beneath it to prevent sudden falls.
Another option is using ramps. By driving the mower up onto sturdy ramps, you can gain access to the underside without directly lifting the machine. However, ramps can be tricky to use on uneven ground, and there’s always a risk of rolling if the mower isn’t properly secured.
Some homeowners with garage setups opt for an overhead pulley system or winch to lift their mower. While this method can be effective, it requires a strong anchor point and a well-balanced lifting technique to avoid tilting.
If you regularly maintain your mower, it’s worth considering a dedicated lifting solution like a MoJack lift to make maintenance convenient and enjoyable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Lifting a Lawn Mower
Lifting a lawn mower might seem straightforward, but many people make mistakes that can lead to injury or damage to their equipment. One of the most common errors is using the wrong lifting point. Mowers are designed with specific weight distribution, and lifting from a weak or uneven area—such as the mower deck—can cause bending, warping, or even structural failure.
Another frequent mistake is failing to secure the mower properly before lifting. If the mower is on an uneven surface or if the wheels aren’t chocked, it can shift unexpectedly while being raised, leading to dangerous instability. Similarly, relying solely on a hydraulic jack without additional support is risky, as jacks can lose pressure over time, causing a sudden drop.
Some people also overlook the importance of checking weight limits. Not all lifting equipment is rated for the same load, and exceeding the maximum capacity of a jack or stand can result in catastrophic failure. Lastly, working under an unsecured mower—without safety locks or backup supports—is a serious hazard that should always be avoided.
Safety Tips for Working Under a Lifted Mower
Once your mower is lifted, following proper safety precautions is crucial to prevent accidents. The first and most important step is to ensure the mower is completely stable before working underneath it. If using a lift, always engage the locking mechanism and double-check that the mower is secure. If using a jack, place jack stands under the frame as a secondary support system—never rely on a jack alone.
It’s also essential to position the mower on a flat, solid surface. Working on gravel, grass, or an uneven driveway can create instability, increasing the risk of tipping. If your mower has a parking brake, engage it, and place wheel chocks behind the rear tires to prevent rolling.
When working under the mower, wear the right protective gear, such as gloves and safety glasses. This helps prevent injuries from sharp blades, falling debris, or accidental tool slips. Always keep your tools organized and within reach to avoid unnecessary movement under the machine.
Finally, don’t rush the job. Lower the mower slowly and carefully once maintenance is complete, making sure all tools and hands are clear before doing so. Taking your time and following proper safety measures will ensure that you complete the job without injury or damage.
Why a MoJack Mower Lift is the Best Option for Safe Lifting
For those who regularly maintain their lawn mowers, a MoJack mower lift offers one of the safest, most reliable, and most convenient ways to lift a mower. Unlike jacks, ramps, or DIY lifting methods, MoJack lifts are specifically designed for lawn mowers, ensuring even weight distribution and maximum stability.
One of the standout features of MoJack lifts is their built-in safety mechanisms. With automatic locking systems, these lifts prevent accidental lowering, giving you peace of mind while working under your mower. Additionally, they are engineered for adjustable height settings, allowing better access for blade sharpening, belt replacement, and undercarriage cleaning.
MoJack lifts also support a variety of mower sizes, from standard riding mowers to larger zero-turn models. Their sturdy, durable construction ensures long-term reliability, making them a worthwhile investment for homeowners and professionals alike.
Compared to makeshift solutions like car jacks or ramps, MoJack lifts significantly reduce the risk of tipping, slipping, or sudden drops leading to damage to your mower or fatal injuries to yourself. If safety, convenience, and durability are priorities, a MoJack lift is an amazing tool to simplify and secure your mower maintenance routine.