My Mower Is Grinding in Reverse

Mower Transmission Problems

• Damage to your mower's transmission could be responsible for the grinding noise you're hearing while it's in reverse. Failing internal components or slipping gears can make it difficult for your mower to remain in reverse. Over time, this causes the mower to stall when you attempt to shift gears and may even stop the mower from moving in any direction. Low transmission fluid can also cause a grinding noise when your mower is in reverse. Maintaining proper fluid level is necessary to avoid excessive wear and tear on moving transmission parts.

Engaged Parking Brake

• If you're using a riding mower, a locked parking brake could cause the grinding noise you hear when attempting to drive in reverse. Failing to disengage the parking brake makes the mower difficult to drive and increases engine stress. The noise also occurs when attempting to drive forward. Simply releasing the parking brake can cure the problem, though damage to your mower can occur if you routinely attempt to operate it with a locked parking brake.

Worn Drive Belts

• Worn or damaged drive belts in the engine can cause grinding noises or excessive vibration. These symptoms may occur when the mower is moving forward or in reverse. Failing to fix these problems when symptoms first arise can result in snapped drive belts, which stops your mower from operating altogether. Torn or bare traction belts may also be the root cause of vibration or grinding noises while your law mower is in operation.

Vibrating Mower Blades

• Mower blades usually stop spinning when a lawnmower is in reverse. Loose blades may vibrate excessively and bang into other mower components, causing the grinding noises you hear when driving in reverse. Loose blades can also bend, which generates a greater amount of vibration and increases the chances of blades contacting other mower parts. Tightening all bolts connecting the mower blades to the undercarriage can stop the problem. Replace any bent mower blades using your owner's manual to find blade sizes that match manufacturer specifications.