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How to Find the Ground Clearance for Riding Lawn Mowers

The lowest part of your riding lawn mower is the blade located under the mower deck. Ground clearance is the measurement between the ground and the lowest part capable of traversing over the ground. To determine the distance between the ground and the mower blade, you must take a measurement with a tape measure. However, there are certain steps you must take to ensure a safe and accurate reading.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
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Instructions

    • 1

      Park your mower on flat level ground, set the parking brake and disengage the mower deck. Remove the ignition key from the mower and disconnect the spark plug wires. This prevents any chance of the engine starting while you work on the deck.

    • 2

      Position the mower deck at the height you normally cut the grass with the height-adjustment lever, usually located on the rear fender. This will give you the clearance you normally have.

    • 3

      Rotate the mower blade so the blade rests front to back. Mower decks pitch down slightly in the front to prevent the back of the blade from "double-cutting" the grass.

    • 4

      Measure the distance between the bottom of the blade and the ground at the front of mower deck with a tape measure. This is your ground clearance.