What is a Tractor Mower?

A tractor mower is a mower unit that works in conjunction with tractor and can often be detached from the tractor. Often, the mower assembly may be located underneath the tractor or pulled behind the tractor, depending on the type of equipment. Most lawn tractors have the mower underneath, whereas most commercial mowers pull the mower behind them.

The tractor mower is powered by a drive train that includes belts and wheels. With the mower attached to the unit, the belt drive can be engaged. This spins the blades and causes the mower to start working. The tractor mower can also be disengaged without shutting down the tractor in most cases.

The pull-behind tractor mower works very similar to those assemblies that have the mower underneath. Usually, the only difference is the way the mower is attached to the tractor. It is still usually driven by a belt system that can engage and disengage as needed. Some also have the ability to be offset from the tractor, which can be an advantage when mowing ditches and other steeper gradients. This feature is one of the biggest benefits to a pull-behind mower.

Of the different types of lawn mowers, a tractor mower is perhaps one of the most popular to use in areas where there is a lot of land to cover. In such cases, using a push mower becomes too labor intensive and impractical. Therefore, a tractor mower is often utilized.

Of the different tractor mower types, a traditional lawn tractor is perhaps the most well-known. While these riding lawn mowers do a good job of cutting the grass, there are some limitations, especially when it comes to maneuvering in tight areas. Therefore, many are turning to zero turn mowers, which have the ability to turn on a pivot point located on or near the tractor. These are especially popular with lawn service companies, simply because they can save so much time.

There are two main points to consider when looking at the purchase of a tractor mower, especially a lawn tractor -- cutting width and horsepower. The wider the width, the more area that can naturally be covered. However, this may cut down on the maneuverability. Oftentimes, increased horsepower goes along with wider cutting paths, though this is not always the case.

Those interested in a tractor mower should be able to find entry-level models starting for near $1,000 US Dollars (USD). That price has been fairly stable over the years as technological efficiencies have offset inflationary pressures. Depending on the brand and features, lawn tractors can also cost multiple thousands of dollars.