Snapper Pro Hydro WB question

[naturescape]

I have a Snapper 48" Pro Hydro with a 23 HP Kohler. It leaves divots on almost every turn no matter how I use it. I thought I would get used to the feel of the mower, but have not. I have lightened the spring tension, per Snapper rep's advice. I believe the problem is that the machine offers no indication of when you are going from forward to reverse (unlike Scag, ExM, etc.) - the tension on the loop control remains the same throughout the entire movement. Any suggestions, besides selling it (which is my plan)?

Ray
Nature-Scape, Inc.

[65hoss]

Can you make the pivot wheel turn backwards while the other wheel goes forward?

[naturescape]

65hoss,

Yes, but the machine is so touchy, it will leave a divot on the left or right side anyway.

[Double D]

the tension on the loop control remains the same throughout the entire movement. Any suggestions, besides selling it (which is my plan)?


Some people (me included) consider this one of the nicest features of the loop steering. Absolutly SMOOTH controls. How long have you had this machine? I have a 52" and a 36" hydro, and have not had those problems. Just swing yur turn a little wider, and if that does not work, as Hoss points out, back the inside wheel up while the outside wheel goes forward. If both wheels are turning it should take care of the problem.

[whitleys]

I'm experiencing the same problem. Figured that being a rookie behind a big WB was the problem and that time (experience) will solve the problem. 65hoss is right. One wheel stopped and pivoting is causing the problem. I have found that pulling back and reversing the inside wheel or a wider, gentle turn where the inside wheel has some movement minimizes the problem. I'm open to othe solutions. BTW - What type of sulky are you using?

[naturescape]

BTW - What type of sulky are you using?


I'm using a Proslide, which I basically like very much. I'm wondering if the Proslide is not very compatible with the 48" Snapper. I am using the extension Proslide recommends with that mower.

I have used the Proslide on a ancient Scag hydro, with Absolutely No Divots when used at a reasonable speed. Also, I have a 36 Snapper hydro w/Proslide that turns much better. My problem is mainly with my 48 Snapper.

It seems that if the 48" Snapper hydro had more traction over the rear wheels it would not leave a divot. I use counter-rotation turning when using the mower, but the wheel(s) often just spin, leaving a divot. Different tires make little difference.

[Double D]

Naturescape- I use a Proslide on my 52" without any probs. I wonder if the 48" is any different. What type extension are you using? I just bolted the bracket right to my frame, no extension. Also, do have to use any weights on the front of the machine to keep it from riding up (the 36" machine I am mainly wondering about)? What size motor does the 48" run? My 52" has a 17hp Kawasaki. I am just trying to figure out why the 48" is different from your 36" and my 52". We have all winter to try and figure this one out-LOL

[Mike Paulsen]

Naturescapes how long have you had the 48"?

[keifer]

Iam lost what is making the divets the sulkie if so i use jungle wheels and have never made a mark.

[Double D]

not the sulky, the tires make the divot if your turn it to hard.

[Jerrys Lawn Service]

Naturescape,On your Snapper there are three settings for your hydro pump output, they located on a bracket on the loops that connects the rod to the springs. The bottom hole is the least amount and the top hole gives you the most.We run ours in the top hole and with a Turf Saver tire we would sometimes get that slight spin your talking about, so we switched to a more agressive tread called Turf Master and it seems to hug the ground alittle better. Just take alittle more time on your turns and start off alittle slower. I hope this helps.
Jerry

[summitgroundskeeping]

I think all hydros are like that. MyGD scamper has a d bar setup and it took me about 1.5 days to get the feel for it. I is very sensitive, which makes it fun to watch new guys (hotshots) try to use it. You'll eventually get the feel and wonder why you ever had a problem. This mower will just handle different than others I guess, just practice.

[Mark]

The loop steering is kinda like the Dixies levers real smooth, But onece you get the hang of it its the best on the market, Ive got a 52" 93yr and i simply love that machine, when you do master it your turns will come so natural and your hands will fill great after a day of mowing. Those darn pistol grips are a pain in the wrist. Marks Mowing Service

[naturescape]

What size motor does the 48" run? My 52" has a 17hp Kawasaki. I am just trying to figure out why the 48" is different from your 36" and my 52".

I have a 23 hp Kohler on the 48". That power really helps to shred leaves. But I'm wondering if the motor is set an inch or two too far forward on the power unit, causing poor traction.

I'm going to switch the tires between my 36 & 48 tomorrow and see if that helps.

[Double D]

Originally posted by naturescape
I have a 23 hp Kohler on the 48". That power really helps to shred leaves. But I'm wondering if the motor is set an inch or two too far forward on the power unit, causing poor traction.

I'm going to switch the tires between my 36 & 48 tomorrow and see if that helps.

Let us know how the different tires do. Did that mower come from the factory with that 23hp? Bet that thing rocks.

[naturescape]

Let us know how the different tires do. Did that mower come from the factory with that 23hp? Bet that thing rocks.

DoubleD:

With Snapper, you can order any power unit to go with any deck. I have the 23 HP with the 48" floating deck. No problem running double blades.:)

Did a couple things to the mower today: Turf Masters on it now, took out the Proslide extension, and raised the handlebar from second lowest to second highest position. It does handle a bit better now. I think the physics of the mower are changed for the better now, with my body a bit closer to the mower.

I still don't like the feel of the loop steering, the problem being not knowing when you are in neutral. Tried the ExMark ECS Turf Tracer, man, that thing rules! The only real resistance in the hydro levers comes when you enter reverse -- nice positive feel and feedback from the machine.

Thanks to all for helping with this problem.:)