Bad Boy Mowers Problems

What are the most common Bad Boy Mowers problems? Maybe you’re thinking of buying one or own one already. Here’s what you need to know.

The mower won’t start.

It may be out of power, or it simply won’t start. The relay makes noise when you turn the key, but it doesn’t start. If your Bad Boy won’t start, try these tips:

  • Ensure the battery is charged.
  • Check the spark plug wire. When it’s loose, the mower won’t run.
  • The fuel tank must be dry. The fuel may also be no good.
  • Check the fuel pump – a dry fuel pump may cause seizing.
  • Ensure the fuel reaches the engine.
  • Tighten all connections.
  • Check for air filter clogs.

Deck lift systems fail.

Bad Boy mower deck lift systems support its frame while maintaining its height. But the electric deck lifts are sometimes unreliable. Reasons include:

  • An actuator may not lift or lower the deck if the shaft screws don’t move in and out as it spins.
  • The mower’s actuator housing may be moist or not perfectly sealed, preventing it from lifting.
  • The screw may be very rusted.
  • See if the actuator housing needs a sealant gasket.
  • Unleveled deck – Raise it and ensure it is level from left to right with a quarter-inch pitch.

Alignment issues.

A misaligned Bad Boy mower causes problems. You might steer in one direction, but it goes a different direction. Use these tips for alignment problems. They don’t apply to transaxle or serious mechanical issues.

  • Transaxle oil leak – your Bad Boy’s transaxle is having a hydraulic problem. To fix it, purchase a new seal kit or call a mechanic.
  • Underinflated wheels – Underinflated wheels pull your mower to one side. To fix this, inflate the wheels properly.

Hydraulics and Transaxle Issues

The Bad Boy mower’s suspension system rides smoothly while keeping the deck stable on all types of terrain. It also cuts better and faster. Transaxle and hydrostatic issues can cause a rough ride and poor cutting results. Mowing Bermuda grass, for instance, requires a clean quality cut in addition to the correct height. Some problems include:

  • Faulty hydraulics – A pro should deal with this.
  • Leaking hydraulic fluid – Just replace this with new seals.
  • Shaking mower deck – The Bad Boy’s mower deck is usually sealed, but it may need maintenance after a few hundred hours. Locked collars and missing screws can cause decks to shake and vibrate. Wear on the spindle key can also cause your mower to shake when you start and run it.

Replace any missing screws on the spindle, bearings, and pulleys. Tighten the belt as well. If the problem persists, balance the blades, especially if they’re new. Have a professional mechanic inspect your Bad Boy mower if that doesn’t work.

Faulty spindles

Spindles are crucial to the mower’s cutting deck. They can cause uneven cutting. Bad Boy spindle problems include:

  • Slow heat-up – A pre-load spindle problem may cause the mower’s spindle to heat up after only 30 minutes to an hour.
  • Low vibration sounds – Worn-out spindle bearings cause low vibrations.
  • Squeaking sounds – Damaged spindles will make your mower squeak.
  • Damaged spindle – A bent, or damaged spindle can make the blade spin unevenly. Get it changed.

Uneven cutting

Uneven cutting reduces quality. Look for these problems on your mower:

  • Tire pressure – Equalize both tires. This leads to uneven cutting. When it’s wet or dusty, tire pressure may affect traction.
  • Loose blades – Replace them and tighten them.
  • Blade sharpness – Replace blades annually or as needed. Dull blades always cause uneven cuts.
  • Debris under the deck – Look for grass and debris under the deck.
  • Throttle – Look at the throttle. A full-throttle ensures even cuts.
  • Monitor your speed – Mow efficiently. If you mow too fast, you may miss grass stems. Also, change your mowing pattern every time.

Disengaged blades

Blades do not engage – This is usually due to a bad belt. If it is loose, it falls off. It may have also stretched too far or snapped.

If you cut too much grass, they can get trapped under your mower’s deck and push off the belt. Check these things:

  • Make sure the plug is on under the PTO engager.
  • Ensure the safety switch is plugged in.
  • Secure all wires and connections.

Fast-draining battery.

It can be frustrating to have a Bad Boy mower quit mid-job. They can stop for many reasons but check your battery first. Why is it draining fast?

  • The mower may be on. While the engine is off, some battery components continue working. If you don’t turn them off when you turn off the ignition, the battery will continue powering them. Turn off all mower components to save your battery. Don’t leave the key in the “on” position because it can drain your battery.
  • Battery corrosion – When the battery is loose, it works harder, so it drains faster. Corrosion means loose connections. Additionally, the battery may leak gas and damage the metal terminals. Get rid of corrosion. Make sure the battery connections are tight and look for cracks in the battery case.
  • Faulty battery charger – The mower’s electrical system charges the battery. It may need to be replaced if the battery fails. Battery power may come back when you use the mower again.
  • Battery life – All batteries have a serviceable life. If it can’t hold a charge like it used to, you may need to replace it.

That’s what you need to know about Bad Boy mowers problems. If you have any of these problems, follow the advice given here first to try and solve them. If you’re not able to solve them with the advice given here, consult a professional.

Thank You for reading this article on Bad Boy Mowers problems