Looking to maintain a pristine lawn with minimal effort? Pull behind lawn mowers offer a powerful solution for homeowners with large yards or uneven terrain. Designed to attach to riding mowers, ATVs, or garden tractors, these versatile tools make lawn care faster and more efficient. Discover how a pull behind mower can save you time while delivering a professional-looking lawn.
Comparison Table: Types of Pull Behind Lawn Mowers
| Type | Ideal Terrain/Usage | Cutting Width | Cutting Capacity | Power Source | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Finish Cut Mower | Large, well-maintained lawns | 44″ – 60″ | Grass, light weeds | Gas/Electric | Sports fields, estates |
| Rough Cut Mower | Overgrown fields, brush, trails | 44″ – 78″ | Thick brush, tall grass, saplings (< 3″) | Gas | Farmland, commercial |
| Flail Mower | Uneven/rocky, brushy areas | 60″ – 78″ | Tall grass, brush, dense weeds, light woody debris | Gas/Electric | Roadside, orchards |
| Reel Mower Gang | Golf course, parks, fine lawns | 60″ – 100″+ | Short, fine grass | Human/Tractor | Golf, sod farms |
Everyday Usage of Pull Behind Lawn Mowers
Pull behind lawn mowers, also known as tow-behind or trail mowers, are designed to be attached to ATVs, lawn tractors, or UTVs. Unlike standard self-propelled or riding mowers, these machines are primarily intended for tackling extensive lawn or field areas with efficiency. Here’s how people use them day-to-day:
- Maintaining Large Lawns & Acreage: Perfect for homeowners or groundskeepers with properties that exceed the practical reach of push or zero-turn mowers.
- Managing Farmland or Meadows: Rough cut models handle wild grass, brush, and saplings, keeping pastures and meadows clear and accessible.
- Maintaining Trails & Roadside: Flail and rough cut models clear paths through overgrown areas or along driveways and roadways.
- Commercial or Institutional Use: Parks, sports fields, or campuses use finish cut trail mowers for a consistent, manicured look.
- Orchards & Vineyards: Flail mowers can handle the unique challenges of debris, prunings, and thick grass found in these environments.
Using one is straightforward: hitch the mower to your tow vehicle, start the engine (for powered models), set the cutting height, and begin mowing, adjusting speed and position for optimal results.
Benefits of Using a Pull Behind Lawn Mower
Whether for residential acreage or commercial landscapes, tow-behind mowers provide clear advantages:
Greater Efficiency
- Cover More Ground, Faster: With wider cutting decks (44″ to 78″ or more), these mowers cut more grass per pass than most riding mowers.
- Reduced Labor: Less need for manual pushing or walking—your tow vehicle does the hauling.
Versatility
- Handles Varied Terrain: Available in models specialized for fine lawns, fields, brush, and even rough, rocky ground.
- Compatible With Multiple Vehicles: Can be attached to different types of tow vehicles (ATV, UTV, tractor).
Power and Strength
- Tackle Tough Vegetation: Models equipped with robust engines and swinging blades can clear even thick brush and saplings.
- Heavy-duty Construction: Engineered to endure demanding conditions and frequent use.
Flexibility
- Offset Cutting Options: Many allow offsetting the deck, letting you combine mower decks on your tow vehicle and the trail mower for extra-wide cuts.
- Adjustable Cutting Heights: Suitable for everything from well-manicured lawns to rugged undergrowth.
Cost Effective for Large Areas
- Lower Operator Fatigue: Save time and energy over walk-behind mowers.
- Potentially Lower Maintenance: Durable machines often require less frequent repair than multiple smaller mowers.
How to Choose the Right Pull Behind Lawn Mower
Selecting the ideal model involves considering your property, mowing goals, vehicle compatibility, and budget. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
1. Assess Your Needs
- Area Size: Larger properties benefit from wider cutting decks.
- Terrain Type: Smooth lawns? Choose finish cut. Overgrown and uneven ground? Opt for a rough cut or flail mower.
- Type of Vegetation: Fine turf, heavy weeds, thick brush, or saplings?
- Frequency of Use: Commercial or everyday use requires more robust equipment.
2. Consider the Type
- Finish Cut Mowers: For regular lawn maintenance and a manicured look.
- Rough Cut Mowers/Trail Cutters: For infrequently mowed areas, fields, or pastures—these swallow thick brush with ease.
- Flail Mowers: For uneven, rocky terrain and dense, woody debris.
- Gang Reel Mowers: For golf-course level turf finish.
3. Check Vehicle Compatibility
- Hitch Type: Ensure your ATV, UTV, or tractor matches the mower’s hitch (standard is a pin hitch).
- Power Requirements: Confirm your vehicle can safely tow the mower’s weight and handle the necessary power draw (especially for PTO-driven mowers).
4. Deck Size and Cutting Height
- Cutting Width: Wider decks (60″ or more) for open fields, smaller decks for maneuverability.
- Cutting Height Adjustability: Essential for adapting to different grass heights and terrain.
5. Engine Power (For Self-Powered Trail Mowers)
- Horsepower: Heavier-duty tasks need more horsepower (10+ HP for rough cut, less for finish cut).
- Electric Start vs. Pull Start: Convenience and accessibility features.
6. Cutting Mechanism and Blades
- Swinging Blade Types: Good for brush and saplings.
- Fixed, Y, or Hammer Flails: For mulching and heavy organic debris.
7. Additional Features
- Offset Tow Bar: Enables increased width when paired with the towing vehicle’s deck.
- Deck Construction: Heavy-gauge steel resists impacts and corrosion.
- Ease of Maintenance: Features like tool-less blade access or greaseable fittings.
8. Budget & Brand Reputation
- Budget Range: Professional-grade models are pricier but pay off in durability and performance.
- Brand: Look for reliability and customer support.
User Tips & Best Practices for Pull Behind Lawn Mowers
- Read the Manual: Always begin with your manufacturer’s instructions for assembly, operation, and safety.
- Match the Mower to Your Vehicle: Never exceed your tow vehicle’s rated towing capacity or recommended speed.
- Set the Right Cutting Height: For rough areas, start high to avoid blade damage, then lower as needed.
- Maintain Proper Tire Pressure: Both the mower and tow vehicle require correct tire pressure for smooth operation.
- Clear Large Debris: Remove large rocks, stumps, or logs from mowing areas to protect blades and decks.
- Overlap Passes: For the cleanest cut, slightly overlap each mowing pass, especially with rough cut blades.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Regularly grease spindles and check drive belts for wear.
- Sharpen or Replace Blades: Dull blades tear grass and increase strain; replace or sharpen as outlined in the manual.
- Store Properly: Clean thoroughly and store under cover to prevent rust and extend lifespan.
- Observe Safety: Always disengage PTO/power and shut off the engine before making adjustments or clearing blockages.
Technical Specifications Comparison Table
| Model / Type | Cutting Width | Engine Power | Deck Height Range | Max Cutting Capacity | Deck Material | Weight | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Swisher Rough Cut Trail Mower | 44″ – 60″ | 10.5 – 14 HP | 3″ – 7″ | Thick brush, saplings 3″+ | 11-gauge Steel | 400-600+ lbs | Heavy-duty, electric start option |
| DR Power Field & Brush Mower | 44″ | 10.5 HP | Variable | Saplings up to 3″ thick | Welded Steel | ~400 lbs | Good for tough overgrowth |
| Titan Flail Mower | 72″ | ~25 HP (tractor-driven) | 0″ – 6″ | Grass, weeds, <5″ brush | Heavy-duty Steel | 500+ lbs | For tractors (PTO required) |
| King Kutter Finish Cut | 60″ | PTO-driven | Variable | Grass, field weeds | Welded Steel | ~400 lbs | Great for large lawns |
| Streamline Industrial Mower | 60″ | Varies | Variable | Large fields, grass, light brush | Steel | Heavy | Designed for ATVs & tractors |
| Agri-Fab Dethatcher Attachment | 40″ | N/A | N/A | Thatch removal | Steel | ~70 lbs | Lawn attachment, not a mower |
Values are representative. Always check specific model specs before purchase.
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Conclusion
Pull behind lawn mowers transform the way you handle large mowing tasks—turning what could be hours of effort into a streamlined, efficient process. They offer unrivaled versatility, letting you tackle everything from finely manicured turf to wild, overgrown fields. The key to satisfaction is matching your mower type to your property’s needs, your chosen tow vehicle, and your available budget.
When well-chosen and properly maintained, a tow-behind mower saves time, reduces labor, and keeps your property looking its best across seasons. Use the guidance and comparison tables above as your starting point. With the right pull behind mower, you can cover more ground—literally and figuratively—than any standard walk-behind or riding mower could offer.
FAQ
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What is a pull behind lawn mower, and how is it different from a regular riding mower?
A pull behind, or tow-behind, lawn mower is an independent mower unit designed to be hitched behind a vehicle such as an ATV, lawn tractor, or UTV. Unlike riding mowers that you sit on and steer, pull behind mowers depend on your vehicle for movement and can cover larger areas more efficiently. -
What types of tow vehicles can I use with a pull behind mower?
Typically, ATVs, UTVs, garden tractors, and even some trucks or SUVs (off-road use) can be used. Always ensure your vehicle has enough towing power for the specific mower model and that it has a compatible hitch. -
What’s the difference between a finish cut and a rough cut pull behind mower?
Finish cut mowers are designed for regular grass and provide a smooth, even look, ideal for lawns. Rough cut mowers, or trail cutters, are made for thick overgrowth, brush, or saplings. They have more powerful engines and sturdier blades for heavy-duty tasks. -
Can I use a pull behind mower on uneven or hilly terrain?
Yes, but you’ll need to select the right type. Flail and rough cut mowers handle uneven, rocky, or brush-filled ground best. Always mow cautiously on slopes and avoid overly steep areas to maintain safety and control. -
How large an area can I mow with a pull behind mower?
Mowing capacity depends on deck width, terrain, and vehicle speed. With a wide-deck model (60″+), clearing several acres per day is possible—perfect for estates, fields, pastures, and commercial properties. -
What maintenance does a pull behind mower require?
Regularly check and maintain blade sharpness, engine oil, filters, tire pressure, belts, and lubricate moving parts. Clean the mower after use, especially under the deck, to prevent corrosion and buildup. -
Can I cut brush and small trees with a pull behind mower?
Rough cut and flail mowers are equipped for brush and can handle saplings and woody growth up to 3-5 inches thick (depending on the model). Always review the manufacturer’s specifications. -
How do I adjust the cutting height?
Most pull behind mowers have adjustable cutting heights via lever, pin, or hydraulic control. Refer to your user manual for instructions and set the deck height appropriate for your grass or field conditions. -
Are there electric pull behind mowers?
While most models are gasoline-powered due to power needs, some smaller, finish-cut models may offer electric options. Always ensure your power source is sufficient for the mower’s demands. -
How do I safely transport and store my pull behind mower?
Clean the mower after each use, disengage the blade/clutch, and store it in a dry, sheltered area. For transport, secure it to a trailer with straps, and if towing on public roads, comply with local safety and lighting regulations.
By understanding your needs, evaluating mower types, and following best practices, you’ll find a pull behind lawn mower that’s a perfect, long-term investment for maintaining large properties with performance and ease.