How should I groove my zero turn tires?

[Luke'sScreenName]

I need more traction out of my zero turn (Hustler Fastrack). I go down some significant slopes and am unable to control my descent no matter how slow I go. When I shopped for a ZTR I thought larger tires were better but...

I bought a cheap tire 1/4inch groover/sniper. What is the best way to groove these tires for increased traction on grass? This picture is from the back:




I'm thinking a diagonal groove from top-left to bottom-right on each lug to start with....

 

[buickanddeere]

Order a pair of radial ATV tires

 

[Luke'sScreenName]

Order a pair of radial ATV tires

That's an interesting idea of last resort

 

[Rustyiron]

My Kubota did the same thing, along with about every one else I've talked to or read about. It's strange, I could back down or drive up (facing up hill) but turn right around and drive down, skidding all the way:thumbdown:
Your cut would make more of a "chevron" traditional tractor groove, that sounds good or just some 90* across the tire groove for a direct edge that should help with the scary down hill slide.

 

[bobmisi]

My Kubota did the same thing, along with about every one else I've talked to or read about. It's strange, I could back down or drive up (facing up hill) but turn right around and drive down, skidding all the way:thumbdown:
Your cut would make more of a "chevron" traditional tractor groove, that sounds good or just some 90* across the tire groove for a direct edge that should help with the scary down hill slide.

I mow for a living, and when I take my pecovac bagger off I have a traction problem going down hills. I solved the problem with a weight bracket across the rear with two suitcase weights on each side sort of behind the rear wheels. Wider tires are not the answer, but you could try lowering the tire pressure all the way around keeping the deck level. DO NOT ADD RIMGUARD OR OTHER WEIGHT INSIDE THE TIRE, AS THE HYDRAULIC PUMPS DON,T LIKE IT.

 

[Luke'sScreenName]

Ya, I actually think the wider tires are a negative. At least for traction.

I have to go up the same hills so I don't dare add weight behind the rear wheels. I never have the bagger on for the hills and have 2 front plate weights. The front weights may un-weight the rear on descent but I'd be unwilling to go up the hills without them.

 

[RickB]

Ounshould put weight on the back a little at a time. You can improve performance without causing safety problems. Grooving your tires isn't the answer.

 

[buickanddeere]

I put a set of Chevon ATV tires on the lawn tractor, different as day and night. Doesn't mark the lawn either.

 

[2ndhalf]

I could see ATV tires working.. they are made for climbing and maximum grip.

 

[Luke'sScreenName]

How would you groove these? It may be unsuccessful but I'm gonna try it. :drink: