My Riding Mower Won't Stop Moving When I Push in the Clutch

Combination Clutch and Brake

• Unlike automobiles that have a manual transmission with separate brake and clutch pedals, many riding mowers with manual transmissions have a combination clutch and brake pedal. Some riding mower models require the driver to stop the lawnmower completely before switching gears, but some models may have gear-changing capability when the clutch pedal is only partially depressed. In virtually all models, the combination clutch and brake pedal must be depressed all the way down to activate the brakes. The parking brake in some models is activated by moving a lever at the base of the pedal that keeps the pedal fully depressed.

Check of Brake Operation

• Checking the operation of the brake can be accomplished without driving the lawnmower. The mower must be parked on a flat, firm surface such as a driveway or garage floor. Some manufacturers suggest applying the parking brake and putting the transmission in neutral. If the rear wheels roll when you attempt to push the riding mower forward, then the brake linkage needs an adjustment or the brake pads need to be replaced.

Brake Adjustment

• If you depress the combination clutch and brake pedal and the vehicle does not come to a stop within the allowed distance set forth by the manufacturer, which is usually about 5 feet, then chances are good that the pedal linkage needs an adjustment to activate the brakes properly. Most manufacturers suggest taking the riding mower to a dealership to have the brakes adjusted.

Brake Pads

• If after adjusting the combination clutch and brake pedal linkage the riding mower does not stop when the pedal is depressed fully, then the brake pads may be worn and need to be changed. Many riding mowers have a single brake disc located near the rear-mounted trans-axle. As with a brake adjustment, most manufacturers suggest taking the riding mower to a dealership for brake work.