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Only John Deere push mowers provide our legendary combination of durability, reliability, and innovation.
From our famously easy-starting engines to our exclusive twin blades to our outs, John Deere push mowers offer what you really want: outstanding performance and a great-looking lawn. Learn more about why you should choose a John Deere Mower
John Deere Push Mower
Push mower or self propelled
It seems like every year lawn mower manufacturers are adding new features and employing new technologies to supply their customers with the best-operating push mower.
Here are some things to consider if you are confused about selecting a self-propelled mower or a regular push mower.
Nothing kills the joy of a sunny day like the wrong push mower. Fortunately, the opposite is also true. The right mower can make cutting your lawn a pleasure.
If you know you need a new push mower, but aren’t sure how many push mowers you need or what features you might want, don’t worry. We’ve got you covered. Use this guide to select the right machine and happy mowing.
Best push mower for landscapers
Push mowers are usually manual, with no motorized capacity to drive them over your lawn. Common push mower varieties include:
The reel mower,
Motorized (gas-powered) push mowers, or
Electric motors.
Let’s talk briefly about each of these types of push mowers, what’s good about them, and who they may be best for.
First and foremost, the fact that you don’t need to push the mower up, down, and all around the yard is one of the biggest and most obvious advantages of this type of mower.
But, there are more pros to self-propelled mowers than the self-driving system they are built with.
For example, this type of mower allows you to finish passes without having to stop. That means that your grass gets cut smoother and results in a more uniform appearance than many push mowers create.
Motorized John deere Push Mowers
Unlike reel mowers, motorized push mowers use the same rotary blades as self-propelled mowers.
Motorized push mowers come in either gas or electric varieties and beyond the power source, they work in (basically) the same way.
Why Buy a Self-Propelled Push Mower?
There are lots of push mower choices to make today as you decide what kind of mower will suit your needs. The size of your yard, the terrain, and the amount of time you want to spend maintaining your property all weigh into a mower buying decision.
The traditional walk-behind push mower is powered by sweat. Push mowers require the operator to move the mower forward with no help from technology.
Today, self-propelled push mowers take the labor out of mowing your yard. With easy-to-use controls and a transmission that powers the drive wheels, you can effortlessly mow. That’s why the preferred walk-behind lawn mower for many people is a self-propelled mower. Plus, a self-propelled mower gets the job done faster.
Here’s more about how self-propelled mowers work, what properties are the best fit for this type of lawn mower, and why many people who choose to mow their own lawns select self-propelled models..
The type of mower you use, the engine inside, and the outside temperature determine what type of oil to use, how much you need, and the cost of the oil.
The type of mower you use, the engine inside, and the outside temperature determine what type of oil to use, how much you need, and the cost of the oil.
Antique John Deere Tractors – vintage john deere tractors: Since there is no other way to find an old tractor than through a private seller, it is through national sales and tractor auctions where you can get what you are looking for and facilitate the search for parts and spare parts.
Antique John Deere Tractors
Vintage john deere tractors
Antique John Deere tractors are a reminder of our nation’s past — a now rustic, integral model of ingenuity and industrialism. Antique enthusiasts might seek them out both for “show” and for practicality, as these machines are still very usable in the current day. Regardless of your desire, a un-modified antique tractor is a great at-home project. Here are several pointers for finding the right deal on one, including the tips and tricks about what to look for — and look out for.
Antique John Deere TractorsAntique John Deere Tractors
Antique john deere tractor parts
Much like buying a classic car, an antique John Deere tractor is both an expense and an investment. They’re still usable pieces of farm equipment when in running order, and are worth far more when they run. This is why the people who seek them out either for collection or use go through lengths to ensure they work…even if they’ll do nothing more than sitting pretty as an ornament.
In planning to get an antique tractor up and running, be mindful that you’ll more than likely have to invest more money beyond the initial purchase of the tractor.
Antique John Deere Tractors
Antique tractors for sale
It will undoubtedly need new parts — specifically, original ones, as well as standard exterior work including a fresh paint job and decals. As stated before, an antique that’s in working condition is worth far more than one that isn’t, regardless of what it’s being used for.
Owners who seek antiques for stationary/decorative purposes are more concerned with aesthetics rather than inner workings and engine or drive train modifications.
Others who simply wish to show their antique off with fellow enthusiasts at shows and meets are concerned with both aesthetics and performance. Farmers who wish to use the antique as an actual working piece are more about restored internals and a solid, working build.
Antique John Deere Tractors
Antique tractor parts
Finding Antique Parts for John Deere Tractors. Parts are always a major consideration when considering a make or model of antique tractor. The older the tractor (or the more obscure or rare of the make or model), the more difficult it may be to find the parts necessary to get it fixed. This is why top name-brand antique tractors continue to be the most sought out; including but not limited to John Deere, Farmall, Minneapolis Moline, and McCormick.
There is some good news: it is possible to find parts these days that are still being machined by various shops across the country.
In some cases, these are your only hope, and the parts themselves might not be as painfully expensive as you might have imagined.
Antique John Deere Tractors
John Deere antique tractor values
Original antique parts are still widely available on the aftermarket. Due to the durability of the way things were made many years ago, these parts are still very much so reliable, after a little polishing up.
“Flipping” A Restored Antique Tractor
Similar to flipping a house (buying a “fixer-upper,” restoring it and selling it for a profit), the tactic of doing so for antique machinery is very much so alive and profitable for those who take the time and effort to do it right.
If you have mechanical or auto body experience or the proper metal shop tools, consider yourself to have an incredibly important skill that will give you the upper hand in restoring your antique. By doing so, it’s possible to make a profit that far exceeds the investment you put down to buy the raw antique.
Investors buy, sell and restore antiques every day by disassembling, cleaning, re-painting and re-assembling antiques for dramatic profits in re-sale. An antique tractor can be sold through numerous means, ranging from online classifieds through sites like CraigsList, local classified ads in the paper, and local auctions. It’s a great side job for a retiree or even an unemployed person who is looking to do what they love, and make some money in the process.
Buying and selling old tractors
Determining What a Fair Price Should Be: Thanks to the internet, it’s quick and easy to see what specifically makes and models of tractors are selling for, and have already sold for in the past months.
You can even check current listings to get the gist of what owners are pricing their antiques for. The roundabout price you’ll continually see will dictate the general market value of an antique tractor based on its condition and demand.
As always, certain models are considered rare if they had a lesser production number than others at their time of manufacture.
When you’ve found the antique you’re interested in, be mindful not only of the cost of the tractor but the cost and availability of the parts that might be needed to restore it, as well as the cost of delivering it to your home or office.
When purchased online, tractor sellers typically prefer local buyers for free pickup only. However, many if not most will provide or recommend delivery services via flatbed or standard trucking for an additional fee. Be sure you know what you’re getting into with the total cost of the purchase, which includes the shipping fee.
Classic farm machinery for sale
There’s one fact about antique tractors: there is no official definition for what one is. The word “antique” brings about different opinions to different kinds of people in regard to what age a tractor should start being considered an antique.
In terms of autos, anything 25 years old or older is considered an antique. Since tractors basically fall within the “automotive” category, some consider antique tractors to be 25 years old or older. Others see tractors from the 1970s-1980s being classified as “antique” as absurd.
However, antique tractor shows and clubs have their own rules and regulations. In fact, you’ll find most clubs standing by the “1960” rule — that is, any tractor manufactured in 1960 or earlier is considered an “antique.”
The “1960” rule is a common benchmark practiced amongst numerous antique tractor organizations across the United States and continues to be seen as the most accurate ‘rule of thumb’ to classify old agricultural machinery.
Old John Deere Tractors
How do I identify my John Deere tractor?
Stand behind your John Deere lawn tractor and look to the bottom left-hand corner near the left tire to locate the identification tag. This metal plate attached to the frame of the mower provides you with the tractor’s model and serial number. Tags may be located under the hood or along the front on older models.
How Old Is An Antique Tractor?
There’s one fact about antique tractors: there is no official definition for what one is. However, antique tractor shows and clubs have their own rules and regulations. In fact, you’ll find most clubs standing by the “1960” rule — that is, any tractor manufactured in 1960 or earlier is considered an “antique.” The “1960” rule is a common benchmark practiced amongst numerous antique tractor organizations across the United States and continues to be seen as the most accurate ‘rule of thumb’ to classify old agricultural machinery.
Whether you call it a bucket, a scoop, or a front loader, the solution for handling materials with a lawnmower is through a kit, which you must install in your equipment.
Perfect your lawn with the Craftsman self-propelled Lawn Mower (3-in-1). Perfect for small to medium-sized yards. It is equipped with a double lever that allows you to adjust the cuts between 6 different heights. The durable 7-inch front and 8-inch rear tires are made with zigzag tread to provide more traction when mowing.
It is powered by a 140cc engine with a recoil start and automatic choke. This walk-behind mower is equipped with side and rear discharge capabilities, as well as mulching capabilities. It comes with a 21-inch cutting deck that allows you to mow larger areas of grass with fewer passes.
Craftsman Self-propelled Lawn Mower
Best lawn mower
One of the best gifts you can receive is a new self-propelled lawn mower. If you’ve ever mowed a garden in the South in the summer, you know how difficult it can be in the heat and high humidity, mowing the garden without help would be impossible.
The self-propelled unit works adequately, even in “crunchy” grass. I like that the mower allows me to control the speed of the transmission with the red transmission handle. If you want to go slower, just release the drive grip. If you want to go faster, just give it a squeeze. You can go exactly as fast as you want.
I also like the “Dust Blocker” bag as it works well. While it doesn’t completely remove dust from the bag area, it does seem to greatly reduce it, making for a more enjoyable mowing experience overall.
Lawn mower starter
Let’s start by starting the mower. While the Briggs & Stratton-powered Craftsman isn’t hard to start, it has never started on the first pull. Experience tells me that it’s never going to get easier to boot, so I expect booting to get easier with practice as I use it.
Craftsman Self-propelled Lawn Mower
The Craftsman name is so iconic in the world of tools. With a lot of equipment in the color red, chances are you’ve seen a good chunk of their inventory. Made in the USA, it’s a brand that has proven itself time and time again and earned your loyalty. But, because they are such a well-established brand, they make a variety of products.
If you’re a Craftsman fan looking for the best Craftsman mower, you’ll find plenty of options. There are several models of Craftsman mowers out there today and you have to check out what they have available to compile a list of their top picks that should suit any homeowner’s needs. Take a look at them and decide which one might be the best for you.
Walk into any warehouse, and one piece of equipment you are sure to see is a forklift. A forklift is a vehicle with a pronged device that is capable of lifting and hauling heavy objects.
Forklifts are capable of maneuvering in small spaces and lifting objects into high-up, hard-to-reach places.
Although forklifts are capable of doing many jobs, they are also dangerous and must be safely operated. Because of their design, forklifts can tip over easily, and they can crush or gouge people or objects if the controls are not handled properly.
The Guide to Forklift Training
This book is an essential resource for anyone who operates or manages a forklift. This book covers everything from the basics of forklift operation to advanced safety techniques, providing readers with the knowledge and skills they need to operate forklifts safely and efficiently.
With practical tips and real-world examples, this book is an invaluable resource for anyone who works with forklifts.
Handles forklift controls vary depending on the type of truck. A certain type of forklift can have different operational controls from others.
This is why before operating a forklift, it is important to familiarize yourself with the owner’s manual where you can read the location of the handles controls and understand how each control works.
Hydraulic Lift Knobs: The forklift has three basic control knobs. One that lifts the forks up or down, the second one tilts the forks/blades down or up to secure the load, and the third to move the load side to side.
Some types of forklifts have a knob that controls the width of the fork.
Forklift Directional Controls: This basically works just like the transmission of a car. If you want to park the car, you put it in “P” or park, if you want to drive the car, you put it in “D” or drive, and if you want to reverse, you switch the transmission lever to “R.”
But forklift directional control has only three positions, forward, neutral, and reverse. Forklift directional controls can be steering column-mounted or foot-operated.
Forklift truck controls
Familiarize yourself with the controls by first reading the owner’s manual. Note the location of each control and its specific function.
Most forklifts have two levers to control the forks. The first lever controls the height of the forks. You pull back on the lever to make the forks go up, and you push forward to make the forks go down.
The second lever controls the tilt of the forks, allowing for better weight distribution, keeping objects from falling off while driving, and helping items slide off when unloading.
You tilt the forks forward by pushing the lever forward, and you tilt the forks back by pulling the lever back. Some forklift models have a third lever that controls the width of the forks. Each of the levers is located just to the right of the operator’s seat.
Sit in the forklift and go over the controls with a trained coworker while the forklift is off and not operational. Ask questions if you are unsure of something.
Forklift controls
Observe a coworker as he demonstrates the function of each of the controls. Pay close attention to the individual controls and functions. Watching is often the best way to learn a new skill. Notice that on hydrostatic forklifts to make the machine go, you push on the gas; to make it stop, you release the gas pedal.
There is no brake. Some hydrostatic models have battery-powered engines that shut off when the gas pedal is released and start up again when the gas pedal is pushed again. Hydrostatic forklifts have two gas pedals as well, one for going forward and one for going in reverse. No need to shift into gears; just alternate the gas pedals.
Practice using the controls in an open area without any cargo on the lifts. Before beginning the task of lifting real objects, get a feel for the controls and how they operate by practicing in an area that is free of objects and people.
Understand that the back wheels are what steer the forklift, which can make it feel like you are driving backward and will take some getting used to.
Forklift pedals
Here are the other controls you must familiarize with:
Accelerator Pedal: This gives a boost in speed and acceleration. It is self-explanatory.
Brake Pedal: Again, it is self-explanatory.
Clutch Pedal: Some types of forklifts are equipped with a clutch pedal that gives the operator more driving acceleration by shifting from gear to gear. Such forklifts equipped with clutch are those used outdoors and with an internal combustion engine.
Inching Pedal: The inching pedal is usually operated by the left foot. Its purpose is to make a very slow and little movement for maneuver with full engine power for lifting. The inching pedal is used commonly to maneuver forklifts in tight spaces or corridors.
Parking Brake: The forklift is equipped with such a brake and it works similarly to your car. It holds the forklift firmly when not in use. When parking on an inclined floor surface, engage the parking brake and block the wheel to make it more secure.
Hydrostatic forklift
In another type of truck, such as the hydrostatic forklift, acceleration is done by pushing the pedal down and the more the pedal is depressed, the faster the forklift moves; to put the machine to a halt/stop, the operator releases the accelerator pedal. There is no brake control in a hydrostatic truck.
In other types of hydrostatic forklifts, there are two accelerator pedals that act like directional controls. The first pedal when pushed moves the forklift forwards, and the other one moves the truck in reverse. The operator shifts his foot from pedal to pedal to drive the forklift in the desired direction.
Forklift operation safety
Tips on How to Drive a Forklift Safety
Having knowledge of driving a forklift safely can prevent accidents in the workplace. Below are some of the important tips you can employ, you may have heard or known these but still they’re not obsolete.
forklift cert
First and foremost, the operator must be trained and certified first before operating this machine – The forklift training course should be specific to the type of forklift the operator is intending to operate. Taking the course and getting certified only takes a small amount of time to complete and a little investment to spend. Being certified has a lot of advantages.
PPE requirements for forklift operator
Appropriate clothing must be worn – PPEs such as a hard hat, luminous safety vest, steel-toed shoes, and eye protection are important especially when the environment is hazardous. Any loose clothing is not allowed as it can snag with the moving mechanism of the forklift.
Forklift daily inspection
Pre-operational inspection must be performed: a daily inspection checklist must be updated to make sure that the forklift is in good running condition.
The inspection involves checking brakes and hydraulic fluids, seeing if the warning devices and lights are functioning, and ensuring the tires are not worn out. The inspection checklist has the details of all things to check. Any fault should be reported to the superior for immediate corrective action.
Forklift battery charger
The forklift should be fully charged (if it’s electric) or has enough fuel (if it’s gas or LPG-powered) – If the truck has not had enough charge or fuel during operation, it could stop at any time or the truck’s lifting capacity could considerably decrease. What if the operator is lifting a 1-ton load when the truck suddenly stops because of insufficient fuel? This is when a serious accident could happen.
Forklift weight capacity
Never lift a load that is beyond the lifting capacity – know the capacity of the forklift on the data plate, it is usually attached to the machine. It indicates all relevant information such as the model, year, manufacturer, capacity, fuel type, etc. Please do remember that lifting a load that is well beyond the capacity could cause a tip-over.
Overloading is one of the common unsafe practices forklift operators do we’ve observed over the years in this business.
Forklift lifting capacity
When lifting, make sure the loads are evenly balanced and distributed – proper weight distribution is the key to making the load secure during transport. When loading the goods, the heaviest ones should be as close to the truck’s mast.
One important piece of advice when loading large rectangular boxes is that the boxes should be arranged widthwise and not the other way around, the idea is to prevent the load center from shifting forward which could cause the forklift to tip over.
Forklift refueling procedures
Refueling or recharging must be performed in a well-ventilated location – Many of us may perceive refueling/recharging as a simple task to do but make no mistake.
It is one of the hazardous things you do with a forklift. To avoid an accident during this activity, make sure the forklift is NOT running as it has the probability to cause ignition, and that any naked lights and smoking are strictly prohibited in the refueling location.
When recharging an electric forklift, please do remember that recharging should be done only when the charge capacity reaches below 30%.
Avoid over and undercharging the forklift battery as it shortens its lifespan. The charging facility must be equipped with first-aid devices and a wash station in case the battery acid comes in contact with the eyes or skin.
Forklift parking area
Park the forklift in a designated area – when the work shift ends, park the forklift in a designated location, the company usually assigned a place for this. When shutting down the truck, lower the forks touching the ground so that the parking brake is pressed before leaving. Do not leave the key in the ignition.
Don’t park the equipment near the emergency door or exit or in the fire lane as it can block the moving vehicle in and out of the premise.
Forklift safety ebook
Did you know that there is a guide on how to drive a forklift?
How to improve forklift safety?
Forklift safety tips workplace
Forklift safety tips for pedestrians
With practical tips and real-world examples, this book is an invaluable resource for anyone who works with forklifts.
Forklift driver training
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FAQs about forklifts
How to operate a forklift controls
Forklift controls vary depending on the type of truck. A certain type of forklift can have different operational controls from others. This is why before operating a forklift, it is important to familiarize yourself with the owner’s manual where you can read the location of the controls and understand how each control works.
What is plugging on a forklift?
Plugging, also called regenerative braking, regen, or switch-back occurs when an operator traveling in one direction uses the directional selector to switch to the opposite direction.
Is it illegal to drive a forklift on the road?
While it is not illegal to drive a forklift truck on a public highway, depending on the distance it is likely to travel, there are specific legal requirements. For a vehicle to be used on the public road, it must comply with insurance, licensing (tax) and registration requirements.
When leaving a forklift unattended How should the forks be?
Lower the forks to the floor when parking the forklift. Make sure that the forks touch the ground when you are leaving. Apply the parking brake when it is idle position. All operational controls of the truck must be in the neutral position before the driver alight the forklift compartment.
What is the load center of a forklift?
The load center is the distance from the face of the forks to the load’s center of gravity. Many forklifts are rated using a 24-inch load center, which means that the load’s center of gravity must be 24 inches or less from the face of the forks.
The four main levers on a forklift typically control the following functions:
Lift Lever: This lever is used to raise and lower the forks. Pulling the lever back raises the forks, while pushing it forward lowers them.
Tilt Lever: This lever controls the tilt of the mast and forks. Pulling the lever back tilts the mast backward (toward the operator), which helps to secure the load during transport. Pushing the lever forward tilts the mast and forks forward, which is useful for picking up and placing loads.
Side Shift Lever: This lever moves the forks side to side. It allows the operator to shift the forks left or right without moving the entire forklift. This is useful for precise positioning of loads.
Auxiliary Lever: Depending on the forklift model, this lever can control various attachments or additional functions such as fork positioning, rotating forks, or operating a clamp. The exact function of the auxiliary lever can vary based on the specific attachments and capabilities of the forklift.
These levers provide the operator with control over the essential functions needed to handle loads safely and efficiently.
Forklift lever functions
What do the levers on a forklift do?
The levers on a forklift control various functions essential for operating the machine and handling loads safely and efficiently. Here is a detailed breakdown of the typical functions of the levers:
Lift Lever:
Function: Controls the vertical movement of the forks.
Operation:
Pulling the lever back raises the forks.
Pushing the lever forward lowers the forks.
Usage: Used to lift loads to the desired height for transport or placement.
Tilt Lever:
Function: Controls the tilt of the mast and forks.
Operation:
Pulling the lever back tilts the mast and forks backward (toward the operator).
Pushing the lever forward tilts the mast and forks forward.
Usage: Tilting the mast backward helps secure the load during transport, while tilting it forward assists in picking up and placing loads.
Side Shift Lever:
Function: Moves the forks horizontally (side to side).
Operation:
Moving the lever to the left shifts the forks to the left.
Moving the lever to the right shifts the forks to the right.
Usage: Allows precise positioning of the load without needing to move the entire forklift, which is especially useful in tight spaces.
Auxiliary Lever (if equipped):
Function: Controls additional attachments or functions specific to the forklift model.
Operation: The exact operation depends on the attachment or function it controls. Examples include:
Fork positioning: Adjusts the distance between the forks.
Rotating forks: Rotates the forks for dumping or repositioning loads.
Operating a clamp: Opens and closes a clamp attachment for handling non-palletized loads.
Usage: Enhances the versatility of the forklift by allowing it to perform specialized tasks based on the attachments used.
These levers are integral to the operation of a forklift, providing the operator with precise control over the machine’s movements and load handling capabilities. Proper training and understanding of each lever’s function are crucial for safe and efficient forklift operation.
