How to Hold up Mower Discharge Chute

Maintaining a neatly trimmed lawn requires a reliable mower with a well-functioning discharge chute. However, sometimes the chute may fall down, causing grass clippings to scatter all over the place, leaving the lawn looking untidy. Fortunately, there are several ways to hold up a mower discharge chute, and this article will explore some of the most effective methods.

One of the easiest and most common ways to hold up a mower discharge chute is to use a bungee cord. A bungee cord is a flexible cord with hooks on either end that can be stretched and hooked onto the mower deck and handle to pull the chute up and keep it in place. Other effective methods include using a zip tie or a commercial discharge chute blocker. Some people also use a commercial holder, metal rod, wood, or stick to hold up the chute.

This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to hold up a mower discharge chute effectively. It will discuss the different methods available, their pros and cons, and how to use them.

Safety Precautions

When holding up a mower discharge chute, it’s important to take some safety precautions to prevent any injuries or accidents. Here are some tips to follow:

• Always turn off the mower before attempting to hold up the discharge chute.
• Wear protective gear such as gloves, eye protection, and closed-toe shoes to prevent any injuries.
• Be aware of your surroundings and make sure there are no people or pets nearby.
• Use caution when handling the chute as it may be hot or sharp.
• Do not attempt to hold up the discharge chute with your hands or body parts. Always use a tool or device to hold it in place.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for holding up the discharge chute, as different mowers may have different mechanisms for doing so.
• Regularly inspect the chute and its holding mechanism for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Replace any damaged parts before using the mower.

By following these safety precautions, you can ensure a safe and efficient mowing experience.

Tools Required

To hold up a mower discharge chute, there are several tools that you can use. The most common tools are bungee cords, springs, and zip ties. These tools are inexpensive and can be found at most hardware or home improvement stores.

Bungee Cord

A bungee cord is a stretchy elastic cord that can hold up the mower discharge chute. It is a simple and versatile way to hold up a mower discharge chute and is easy to install and remove.

Bungee cords come in different lengths and strengths, so it is important to choose the right size for your mower. When using a bungee cord, make sure it is securely fastened to the mower deck and the handle of the mower.

Read Also: How To Transport A Riding Lawn Mower

Spring

Another tool that can be used to hold up the mower discharge chute is a spring. This tool works in a similar way to a bungee cord, but it is not as stretchy.

To use a spring, attach one end to the mower deck and the other end to the handle of the mower. The spring will pull the discharge chute up and keep it in place.

Zip Tie

A zip tie is a type of fastener that can be used to hold up the mower discharge chute. It is a simple and effective way to keep the discharge chute in an upright position. To use a zip tie, wrap it around the discharge chute and the mower handle and tighten it until it is secure.

In addition to these tools, it is also important to have a pair of pliers or wire cutters on hand to cut and adjust the bungee cords, springs, or zip ties as needed. With these tools, holding up a mower discharge chute can be done quickly and easily, allowing for efficient lawn care.

Lifting the Mower Discharge Chute

When mowing the lawn, it is necessary to lift the mower discharge chute to avoid scattering the grass clippings all over the lawn. There are several ways to lift the mower discharge chute, including using a bungee cord, zip tie, or spring.

A bungee cord is a stretchy elastic cord that can hold up the mower discharge chute. It is a simple and versatile way to hold up a mower discharge chute and is easy to install and remove.

They are inexpensive and can be found at most hardware or home improvement stores. To use a bungee cord, simply wrap it around the mower deck and hook it onto the discharge chute.

Another option is to use a zip tie to hold up the mower discharge chute. A zip tie is a plastic strip with teeth that can be tightened to hold things together. To use a zip tie, simply wrap it around the mower deck and the discharge chute and tighten it until the chute is held in place.

A spring is another option for holding up the mower discharge chute. The spring is attached to the mower deck and the discharge chute, and it keeps the chute in the up position when not in use. This option may require a bit more installation effort than the other two options, but it provides a more permanent solution.

No matter which option is chosen, lifting the mower discharge chute is an important step in maintaining a healthy lawn. It prevents the grass clippings from smothering the lawn and allows the grass to grow properly.

Securing the Mower Discharge Chute

One of the most important aspects of lawn care is to keep the mower discharge chute in the correct position. If the chute is not properly secured, it can lead to uneven clippings and an unattractive lawn. Fortunately, there are several ways to hold up the mower discharge chute, and they are all easy to install and remove.

Bungee Cord

A bungee cord is a stretchy elastic cord that can hold up the mower discharge chute. It is a simple and versatile way to hold up a mower discharge chute and is easy to install and remove.

They are inexpensive and can be found at most hardware or home improvement stores. Simply wrap the bungee cord around the handle of the mower and attach the other end to the discharge chute.

Spring

Another option is to use a spring to hold up the discharge chute. This is a great option if you don’t want to use a bungee cord. Simply attach the spring to the handle of the mower and the discharge chute. The spring will keep the chute in the up position and prevent it from falling down.

Zip Tie

If you don’t want to use a bungee cord or spring, you can also use a zip tie to hold up the discharge chute. Simply wrap the zip tie around the handle of the mower and the discharge chute and tighten it. This will keep the chute in the up position and prevent it from falling down.

Maintaining the Mower Discharge Chute

To ensure that the mower discharge chute stays in good condition, it is important to perform regular maintenance. This will help prevent clogs and ensure that the chute remains in good working order.

One important step in maintaining the discharge chute is to clean it regularly. After each use, the chute should be cleared of any grass clippings or debris that may have accumulated. This can be done using a brush or compressed air. It is also a good idea to inspect the chute for any signs of damage or wear, such as cracks or holes.

Another important aspect of maintaining the discharge chute is to ensure that it is properly lubricated. This will help prevent rust and corrosion, which can cause the chute to become stuck or difficult to operate. Lubrication can be done using a silicone spray or other lubricant recommended by the manufacturer.

In addition to regular cleaning and lubrication, it is important to inspect the chute for any signs of wear or damage. If the chute is cracked or otherwise damaged, it should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the mower.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While holding up the mower discharge chute is a relatively simple task, there are some common issues that may arise. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you tackle these problems:

Issue: Chute Keeps Falling Down

If your mower discharge chute keeps falling down, it may be due to a weak or worn-out bungee cord. In this case, you can try replacing the bungee cord with a stronger one. Alternatively, you can use a spring instead of a bungee cord, as springs tend to be more durable and long-lasting.

Another possible reason for the chute falling down is a loose or damaged bracket. Check the bracket and tighten any loose screws or bolts. If the bracket is damaged, you may need to replace it.

Issue: Chute Won’t Stay Up

If the chute won’t stay up, it could be due to a tension spring that is too strong or too weak. Adjust the tension spring to the correct level, as per the manufacturer’s instructions.

Another possible reason for the chute not staying up is a clogged chute or deck. Clean out any debris from the chute and deck to ensure smooth operation.

Issue: Chute is Damaged

If your mower discharge chute is damaged, it may need to be replaced. Look for replacement parts from the manufacturer or a reputable supplier.

In some cases, you may be able to repair the chute yourself. For example, if the chute is cracked, you can try using a strong adhesive to glue the pieces back together. If the chute is bent, you can try gently bending it back into shape using pliers or a hammer.

By troubleshooting these common issues, you can ensure that your mower discharge chute stays in good working condition and continues to provide efficient lawn care.