The Easy Solution To Keep Grass From Sticking To Metal Lawn Mower Decks

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Some people enjoy mowing their lawn, out in the garden, surrounded by the sounds and smells of nature. Others, not so much. For them, any methods that make mowing the lawn more efficient are welcome. One thing that can bring the job to a frustrating halt is grass sticking to the lawn mower deck, slowing or stopping the blade and making the motor stall. Fortunately, an easy solution is offered by a product that can be brushed on. It creates a super-slippery, non-stick surface on metal mower decks that sheds grass and dirt so nothing will slow you down.

There are several products that can be used on mower decks. Ceramic, silicone, and Teflon coatings can be used on different kinds of decks, but they need to be applied regularly. On the other hand, there are several reports that the popular Slip Plate Dry Film Graphite Lubricant can last at least a whole season and possibly two. The drawback is that it's only recommended for metal decks, not plastic ones.

The underside of your deck needs proper preparation if the coating is to be effective, so check the right way to safely clean your lawn mower, and make sure to do a thorough job. Use a wire brush to remove small patches of rust or flaking metal.

Read the warning label on the can, and work in a well-ventilated area. Take a 5-gallon bucket, and carefully empty the Slip Plate into it. It can sometimes separate in the can, so use a stick or a small putty knife to get it out. Stir it to a smooth consistency, which could take a while. If you have a mixer attachment for a cordless drill, go slowly so you don't splash it everywhere.

Cover the shaft area in the center of the deck with rags or kitchen paper so you don't get the paint on the belt or bearings, and then take a cheap paintbrush (the Slip Plate is almost impossible to clean off), and apply a good layer of the coating over the whole deck. According to the product's data sheet, it takes eight hours for the Slip Plate to dry completely, so it's probably best left overnight before using the lawn mower. One coat should be enough, but if it looks patchy, apply a second. The same process can be used for a ride-on mower deck, although you'll have to jack it up to get underneath. Be sure it's stable and secure before you do so.

There are some lawn mower maintenance tasks you should do after every mow. Fortunately, applying a graphite coating to stop grass from sticking to your metal deck is something you'll probably need to do only once a year.