Zero Turn mower security

[passgas55]

I have a weekend place/future retirement home about 75 miles from where I live. Last year I purchase a zturn to cut the grass about every weekend during grass cutting season. I trailered it back and forth which was a pain in the rear end. I do have a half carport half shed that the zt can be locked in out of view. I need some ideas to make it harder for not so honest people from stealing it. I was thinking taking one of the rear tires off and bring it home with me. Do an loud audio local alarm and red flashing lights. I was thinking of making where the engine can't be started but i am kind of shying away from disabling the engine. Any ideas?

 

[Carl_NH]

Install a toggle switch on one of the safety switches - like the seat or hand brake circuit that is difficult to see but easy to access. This will prevent the unit from starting. Depending on your make/model there may be other options. A locked heavy duty cable would work too.

If you have a web connection there you can install a webcam to keep an eye on things and if someone does arrive with other than good intentions you get them on video. Another simple deterrent is the ADT/security alarm stickers. Check your insurance coverage for theft as well.

 

[9973720wb19]

You can't steal what you don't see...I'd lock it up, but can you hide it too? if no one can see it, they will not think to steal it.

 

[phiferpharm]

The wheel off is okay, but it may be best to try and secure it in the carport/shed in a way that keeps them away from it if possible. Can you get a wheel boot and secure the storage area?

 

[Will_C]

I would consider taking the battery with you...I don't know if you are worried about a casual drive away theif, or is the place remote enougn so that some one could have enough time and opportunity to jump start it and load it on a trailer without anyone noticing?

Will

 

[passgas55]

There are 3 points of entry to the shed part. I have a steel 36" door with a dead bolt. I can shore up the wooden frame where the deadbolt goes in at. Next is the 6 foot garage door. It has a locking handle. I can add a bolt or pin in the inside on the rails. Then I have a 3x3 window. I can add some bars on the inside. This will make it a little harder to get in. I do like the idea of a kill switch on the one of the safety devices. This weekend I will start prepping the shed.

 

[aczlan]

There are 3 points of entry to the shed part. I have a steel 36" door with a dead bolt. I can shore up the wooden frame where the deadbolt goes in at. Next is the 6 foot garage door. It has a locking handle. I can add a bolt or pin in the inside on the rails. Then I have a 3x3 window. I can add some bars on the inside. This will make it a little harder to get in. I do like the idea of a kill switch on the one of the safety devices. This weekend I will start prepping the shed.

Cover the windows so that nobody can see in. Then John Doe wandering by will not be able to see what you have stored in there.

Aaron Z

 

[gwjd]

use foam insulation to cover windows cut tight between bars and glass, cheep eassy and it looks like a way to keep warm not security

 

[lectro88]

GPS Tracking. Police or you can drive right to it. If no one is there, you are taking a huge gamble, especially for a week at a time or more.

Not sure if home owners would cover or not.

I know its a royal pain to track a mower back and forth,
BUT.. Its more of a pain to buy a total stranger a z-mower.
And now you have basicly bought 2 z-mowers. Or considering it.

I say don't temp fate.

 

[RickB]

Have it insured and store it out of sight where breaking and entering can be easily proven. If it gets stolen, buy another. If you think about it, you probably have more to be concerned about losing than the mower.