Mowing TC33D too big for yard

popeye doyle · Jun 28, 2013

I have a 2002 TC33D with 60 MMM. The tractor is just a little bit too big and heavy. I do like the 60" MMM. It's just about perfect for my 1/2 acre I mow. I did try out and buy a new scag zero turn mower. The first time mowing with it I got stuck 3 times. We did have a wet spring here and that probably was the main problem. That really turned me off of zero turns. I was thinking about the smaller tractors like the tc21's. Would need the 3 point lift for my 60" pto tiller. A FEL would be a nice thing to have also. Not wanting to get a new tractor.

Creamer · Jun 28, 2013

I cannot imagine what kind of ground you are mowing that the SCAG did not work very well. They are good mowers although I am not a fan of mid mounts. I prefer front mounts that allow you to get closer to shrubs and other objects with low hanging branches.

As for the TC33, I have a truck and trailer. Those are nice little rigs!

popeye doyle · Jun 28, 2013

Well I work the afternoon shift and need to start mowing by 10:30-11:00 am. The grass usually is damp, just going up a slight incline one wheel wanted to spin. Once that happened I could only go in circles. I did sell the mower to a guy at work. Have been mowing with the tractor and have not had problems. If I turn too sharp the front tires cut into the grass leaving bare spots and ruts. I do like the tractor, it's just a bit large from my small yard. It's a 2002 model and has just a little over 100 hours on it. Maybe I should try to find some turf tires for it???

pedalstomper78 · Jun 28, 2013

Hmmm......it shouldn't tear things up if the front differential isn't engaged. Have you looked at that? Should help you turn a bit sharper also.

expedoman55 · Jul 4, 2013

Popeye, I have a TZ22DA diesel with a 60" MMM and mow about 2 acres(about an hour) at my own home and another 1/2 acre at my sons. I love this tractor. We also have a TC34 and like it equally. Usually my son mows the open areas with the 34 with an 84" mm rear discharge and I do the other closer in areas. That leaves us with a little finish string trimming is about all to do.. my friend has a zero turn Toro and a zero turn ferris. He likes my Blue Boys better..

ironpen · Jul 4, 2013

Do you have industrial tires on the tc33? One thought would be to replace the front tires, which I am sure are the ones that are leaving the ruts with 195/60R14 auto tires. These are slightly smaller than the current 25x8.5x14's that are on the tractor and will bind less in the turns. They will work fine...I promise you will like the result and it is a very inexpensive way to keep those front tires from "digging in" during turns. Leave the industrial tires on the back. I have a tc33d (1999) and this made a lot of difference for me. I was also tearing up the ground on turns....no longer the case.

popeye doyle · Jul 5, 2013

Yes I have the R4's. Changing the front tires is a good idea. I was in Europe this summer and saw they were using a completely different type of tires on their tractors and heavy equipment. Might try to see what they are and get a set for my tractor.

I went and looked at a TZ25? I forget the exact number. It was smaller than mine. After looking at it, I think I will stay with the TC 33D. Now to find a good loader.

ironpen · Jul 6, 2013

Try the automotive tires.....that will likely work and be MUCH less expensive. They will not tear up the ground near as much. If you look in your manual, it tells you that the tc33d is basically a full time 4 wheel drive machine and when cutting sharp corners, to expect some turf damage. I really don't need full time 4 wheel drive and wish I could turn off this feature, but apparently that is not possible. Make sure the lever on the left is not set on full time 4 wheel drive...you probably have already done that, but just in case. The manual says it automatically turns off when not needed, but I am not sure how that works. Do you have a manual? If not, I will copy and send that part to you.

thcri · Jul 7, 2013

I don't know what the issue is. I have a TC29D with a 72" mid mower and R4 industrial tires. I have no issues with tearing up the lawn or leaving marks from weight.