Noise management data sheets: Ride on mowers
Contents
1. Maintenance
- Ensure engine is kept in a good state of tuning with regular changes of air and oil filters.
- Examine condition of the muffler, making sure it is in good condition (no holes) and bolted firmly to the side of the engine.
- Tighten all loose and vibrating parts, making sure that all covers are securely fastened. Vibrating covers can be silenced with silicone sealant. Loose and rattling gear levers can be quietened by mechanical adjustment or application of "Gaffer Tape" to parts of gearshift rattling in selector plate.
- Check belts and chain drives for correct tension and lubricate bearing heads.
- Check blades for wear and replace if necessary.
2. Noise control
- Fit "low tone" muffler to Briggs and Stratton type engines. These mufflers reduce the noise level by approximately 3dB(A) more than the standard mufflers. With some rear engine types the muffler may be directed towards the operator. If possible orientate exhaust away from operator's seated position.
- Heavy-duty rubber matting placed on the blade guard will reduce vibration.
- If engine is rear mounted, place 15 mm plywood cover with 50 mm fibreglass insulation faced with perforated foil behind operator's seat separating the operator from the engine noise.
- Alternatively enclose the engine under a hood lined with fibreglass insulation faced with perforated metal foil and take the exhaust through a modified high efficiency exhaust system. Care must be taken not to obstruct cooling air.
3. Operator control
- Don't over rev engine. Use RPM range suitable to work being performed.
4. Alternatives
- When replacing ride-on mower select a quieter model.
Adapted from the Noise Control Manual for Schools with the permission of the Education Department of Western Australia.