FAQ
This page contains answers to common questions asked by members and racers new to the sport of lawn mower racing. Also, there are some tips and advice that we have found useful and they are presented here as questions.
How do I make my racing mower go faster?
Notice the question included “racing mower”, not the mower you cut grass with. For safety reasons we will never offer suggestions of how to make your family mower faster!
As for the mower you intend to race, you will need to change your belts and pulleys to achieve a different final drive ratio. We cannot specify which pulleys will work best because every mower is different and there are a lot of variables — such as weight of the mower, the driver, etc.
Remember this formula;
Small front pulley + large rear pulley = slow
Large front pulley + small rear pulley = fast!
Are there performance parts available?
Yes, some high performance parts are available. Some racers have a few parts available, but it’s pretty much a build your own kind of thing. Go to the Yahoo Group Site and ask for who might have performance parts.
What’s the best mower to use?
The best mower to use are the free ones. They keep more money in the pocket to work with. But if you ask 15 different racers you’ll get 15 different answers as to what is the best mower. It’s basically what works for you.
What is a tethered kill switch and where do I get one?
A tethered kill switch is a device that will shut down the engine if you happen to get bucked off. For safety reasons, it must be securely attached to the driver and the mower! Most snowmobile or marine shops have these available. Also, NAPA has a selection of them in their accessories catalog.
When is the STA-BIL Nationals?
The STA-BIL Keeps Gas Fresh Finals and Challenge of Champions, also known as the STA-BIL Nationals, is always held the Saturday and Sunday of Labor Day Weekend.
Do they have blades on them?
NO! The blades are removed! The blades must must be removed when racing and it is the very first rule under General Mower Requirements in the rulebook. Remember, safety first.
What about the blade deck?
Keep the blade deck on. Plus, you should bolt it solid so that it will hold your weight as well as not sway when you drive the mower. Check the rulebook for specific build rules and clearances.
Can I remove the governor?
Remember, this is lawn mower racing! Removal of the governor or governor linkage for any reason other than racing is NOT recommended and should NOT be done on the family lawn mower. If you want to mow the lawn faster, buy a bigger mower!
Stock and IMOW classes are governed at 3650 RPM and therefore the governor cannot be removed. Prepared and FX classes allow such modifications. See the rulebook for specific build rules. Also, you can install a hand or a foot throttle. However, it’s up to you, your driving style and preferences on which you choose.
What can I do with the steering?
Spend some time to get the play (looseness) and deflection out of your steering and front suspension. If you do have play or deflection, you have no true setting, thus, less control and speed. To improve the handling, some racers bolt or weld the front end solid (where it pivots).
Can I modify the engine?
Yes, in Prepared and FX classes you can. Work on the engine like you would traditionally with an automobile (port & polish, etc.). What type of engine is up to you and the class division you intend on running. It must be a lawn mower engine and most racers run Briggs & Stratton or Tecumseh. Some guys run a Honda lawnmower engine. All seem to do great!
What About Safety Equipment?
Always make sure that you have on safety gear when practicing or racing. Helmet, gloves, long pants, sleeves and neck support are mandatory in the USLMRA. Lawnmower racing is fun but it can also be dangerous.
Remember, this is a motor sport! SAFETY FIRST!!!
How fast do they go?
The speeds vary by class. Stock classes may only go about 6 to 8 miles per hour. The Prepared (modified) has been known to go as fast as 85 mph, however on the track they only do 35 to 40 mph. FX (factory experimental) can reach speeds of 60 mph on the track.
How long have people been racing lawn mowers?
There has been organized lawn mower racing in the U.S. and in England for more than 30 years, with the annual Fourth of July Race in Twelve Mile, Indiana and 12 hour lawn mower race in Wisborough Green, England the oldest known events.
What is STA-BIL?
STA-BIL is the best selling fuel stabilizer that keeps gas fresh in power equipment for quick starts. STA-BIL is used for lawn mowers, boats, snowblowers, and most outdoor power equipment as well as cars, trucks and even locomotives. For more information, click here: STA-BIL
How can I find out where to stay, and which hotels/motels are near the race?
Go to the race venue information on the schedule for the calendar years events, find the event you are going to attend. This will list the race director’s name, phone, and e-mail info. You will also find the main hotel offered for the area at a reduced rate. The director may also be able to direct you to other hotel/motels in that area.
How much is it going to cost me to race at an event?
Go to the schedule for the calendar years events, find the event you are going to attend, and the director should be able to tell you this info if it isn’t already posted. This fee may vary from race to race, but by no more than $5 – $10.
Who do I go to on the day of a race to find out if my machine is legal to race?
Even though you may have followed the suggested build rules, you still need to have it inspected. Ask the day of the race for the Chief Technical inspector that is handling the race that day. You will also need to obtain a race registration form, and a technical inspection form.
Where do you race these things?
We race our lawn mowers all across the country, from Maine to California. The USLMRA holds 10-15 sanctioned races per season and local chapters under similar rules as the USLMRA hold many more races. Go to the Local Chapter Map to see if there’s a race near you.
I want to start racing in the FX or BP class. But how?
FX and BP Classes have special licensing rules and requirements. Please see our Official Rules.
How can I get started, or is there anyone in my area?
Go to the Local Chapter Map for Local Chapters and contact people. They should be able to help you get started. Then get a mower and go to a race!
Is There Any Money In The Sport?
WE DO NOT RACE FOR PURSE MONEY!!! We race for FUN, trophies, points, and bragging rights and sometimes for lawn ornaments! If any money is made available to racers, it is shared equally among every racer for gas money and to help with their expenses.
None of the questions listed above apply to me, can I Email my question to you?
Yes you can. Visit our Contact Page!