Homemade DIY Remote Controlled Lawn Mower!

A friend and I built a fully remote-controlled tractor. We have a lot of future plans on things we can do with this tractor. Let us know if there is something you would like to see

[@MixMasterMohan]

Awesome! I am also a hobbyist looking to make an autonomous tractor and this was super inspiring. I have it planned out and right now I have the PID controller for the steering motor figured out and am trying to mount it to the tractor but am struggling to find parts to do so. I'll keep you updated when I make any progress and can't wait to see what you guys do next!

[@Falco2762]

This robot will definitely win BattleBots for sure.

[@dmlawry4677]

Instant subscriber, wasn't even a question of should I subscribe. Really want to see the progression of this project. Awesome build for someone who cant get outside much anymore, and I'm very tired of paying to have my lawn cut.

[@tonygrant1167]

This is the best solution I’ve seen to automate a lawn mower, can you add a links to the parts you use or if you have or sell this list let us know how to get it. Great Job

[@dadtype2339]

At the time of this comment (04-06-21) there are 7 thumbs down. These people love to ride their mowers! Cool idea and thanks for the post!

[@elephantfeet280]

Great for the first of April this year specially when you mow a park with no one in the driver's seat.

[@jasonyannuccelli2499]

That’s Awesome Michael 👍

[@PS-nf3xw]

Wow, criminally underrated

[@Silverado1st]

That is so awesome. My brother the electrical engineer wanted to make one about 15 years ago but never got around to it. I've always wanted to build one, but having such a small lawn I decided to use a kids atv (106$), a used robovac with Lidar (117$) and a couple 18v 13" Makita hedge trimmers. Let the fun begin! he he he

[@randysizmore5484]

That's bad azz. Id love to have one. Kinda reminds me of the old dukes of hazzard shows 1979+ I can't exactly remember which one but the bad guys had a remote controlling the general lee, they were remote driving it trying to run over them.

[@ferarienzo9884]

Cool setup I’m interested

[@rlm98253]

Well done, sir. Subscribed.

[@kalebarsenault1882]

for the FPV, you can just use something like a DJI digital FPV unit or a standard run of the mill FPV setup

[@ItAintMeBabe99]

Awesome. You should put a dummy on it, like a scarecrow!

[@tractorcorleone]

Very good idea 😄👍👍

[@mrbubetube]

yep, it sure is, and YOU should be the first to buy it!

[@tractorcorleone]

@@mrbubetube 😁😆👍👍

[@Darek80]

This is great! What do You do next? Maybe autonomis lawn mower? You should use board from drone (GPS tracking).

[@TheRandomManiacs]

yes... thanks.. now we need to make this

[@criticalloves]

Very nice mate. Can I controlled my life too? 😂🤣🤣

[@HobiMax]

harika bir proje.

[@rustbucketrevival3186]

That is awesome great job

[@NeonRelaxationCorner]

The first step to make a scary movie.. A lawnmower tractor without a driver that actually can do whatever you want. 🚜😅😅

[@JoshuaLove80]

imagine using this with fpv goggles lol great job btw!

[@Silverado1st]

Lol, someone had a great idea in the comments, hook up a trailer, but I'd throw in a chaise lounge chair, umbrella and a bucket of ice and beer!

[@edwardhuang2475]

It is so good I would like to buy one set of the control to change my old riding mower to RC!

[@whiterabbit714]

I’m loving this idea very cool!! But you didn’t show how the blades are engaged??? Is that remote too???along with everything else??

[@laxonetrc]

Just Brilliant!

[@non1503]

Cool haven't seen a rc rider video in probably ten years. I have been seeing these halo dog collar commercials. And I think a variation of their software. Or something like it. could work great for making easy to plot no go zones. Then you just need to code it's drive styles or patterns. It would beat the old self propelled tied to a post that's for sure. Oh wait this is two years old. Lol guess I should dig through.

[@rfrazier113]

What did you use for your kill switch and how does it install?

[@nathanmoormann4882]

Majestic

[@bercar5457]

Outstanding.

[@Patriottoo2]

Well done!

[@Grey-Troll]

Nicely done! That's very close to what I'm planning. I'm thinking an actuator might be the way to go for steering as well, but I may have to reconsider depending on how much force is needed to turn the wheels. I've seen some mods to replace the steering bushings with actual bearings which should in theory have much less friction therefore requiring less force to turn than it does currently. Automation would be super awesome to look into as well. Not sure I have suitable terrain to attempt that though... at least not unless it has extremely accurate gps position and orientation feedback, or a LOT of autonomous obstacle detection built in. That will take quite a bit of work and I'd guess quite expensive cameras and other sensors to become viable as a 'set and forget' system, or one you only have to glance up at every few minutes at the very least.

[@johnanderson9619]

Very cool.

[@ChrisfromKeyfarm]

Very nice, I have something similar.

[@aegis2196]

You guys should make a kit and sell it as an add on. Ill bet it'll sell like hotcakes

[@solidamanda]

I did pretty much the same thing on my zero turn. My biggest problem is to pull the controls of the hydrostatic drives. Even with a so called 35kg servo, it still doesn't feel like a good and elegant solution. And you should be able to kill the machine whenever it loses control or by demand remotely. Now im planning to mod my ryobi riding mower hopefully its easier and more elegant since its electric.

[@davstube]

Dude I would totally purchase that! I'm a drone pilot so i totally see how you could program missions using GPS!

[@ben212-i5w]

Hey bro. What motor controller and relays did you use exactly?

[@jasonblair9282]

Did you have to upgrade your electrical in order to keep the battery charged during operation as well as run the servo motors and electronics?

[@Andy-df5fj]

Can you engage/disengage the mower blades remotely?

[@butchgoodwin]

This is a very cool idea, question if you are using an Ardunio Mega, then why not add a GPS module to it and have the Ardunio record the first or outer trip and then just spiral following that first path inward

[@keithfinch474]

Could you provide anymore information about the code that you wrote to control the steering and pedals? Also, could you provide detailed information about the potentiometers used and how did you interface them with both the steering and the pedals. Any chance you would share the code?

[@hoodoo2001]

Do you have any kind of backup kill device if you lose electrical power? That is the only drawback I can see with electric/mechanical hook ups. Also you need to put a "deer" in the drivers seat.

[@GeneralChangFromDanang]

I would like to second the deer idea, or possibly a stuffed gorilla.

[@TimsBitsnPieces]

It doesnt seem to drive straight at all.. hmm Great idea and something id like to see more of seeing I can not push a mower any more with a stuffed back..

[@Andy-df5fj]

I'm pretty sure that's due to the 3rd person perspective he's controlling it from. It's not easy to track straight when you can't see ahead of you. I hope it will be better when he sets up First Person View.

[@davida.longjr.6718]

I have been looking for a remote control mower for about a year now. I can't believe these aren't already out.

[@J4TiDotCom]

Its my fault I had an idea in 1981 but didnt find the skillset people to do it. 5 years ago there was a roomba type lawn mower at a show havent seen much o fit.

[@audiofan3548]

where i can buy the same control system ? it is good if you can show me the list of them. thank a lot

[@jasoncurrie475]

Billion dollar idea

[@blendpinexus1416]

i would be terrified to see a ride on lawn mower driving around without a driver on it.

[@thangyoung1166]

Nice work. It would be nice if you have the wiring connection diagram. Thank you in advance

[@Andy-df5fj]

The mounting mechanism of the steering motor isn't as much if an issue as the shaft coupling being off center. If it spun true, the only stress on your mounting would be torsion.

[@cjhsu5307]

How did you control the mower move forward /backward?

[@joesphfauver-kingsland8713]

Parts list please 🙏

[@jtcustomknives]

I’m building one but I’m using extra stuff from my drone building. Going to run DJI HD video camera and transmitter to my DJI goggles and now from my recliner inside.

[@jervin2]

Looks like it kind of weaves, does it drive in a straight line easily yet?

[@michaelrechtin]

There is definitely a dead zone in the middle. However, with a little practice it can be driven straight. When doing autonomous stuff we should be able to account for it in software.

[@donaldhenke2750]

thats cool.

[@AlanCamp-q1s]

Put a hitch on it with a mower on each side of an A-frame

[@ethanos6514]

It's 45 degrees and I have to mow the lawn. Luckily we have a remote-controlled lawnmower. lol (meaning you could just sit inside your house and mow the lawn but make sure you can see the lawnmower.)

[@cascadinghaze7125]

Should hook it up to a GPS and autopilot to plot your lines

[@keithfinch474]

The reason I would like to make one is that I have had back surgery and the surgeon has told me I cannot use my tractor or lawn mower anymore because my discs are weak. Every time I use the mower I end up with a herniated disc. So, any help would be appreciated.

[@deanstockwell6483]

I wish I could get you to teach me how to start the mower and engage the blades with my Radio Control

[@Fred28210]

Hello, Great your video, it helps me and gives me a lot of ideas. I am French, I use the google translator. I have the same project, but with a Frsky radio, you video helps me and gives me a lot of ideas. Which receiver did you put on ?

[@KittyToonz]

1:04

[@georgem3188]

Do you know anyone can do making that in Ontario

[@junluna7380]

Hi ,how do you do steering wheels is it using servo?

[@go5582]

hi handsome, could you specify create a kit for customers to buy? I have a push electric push mower ,kobalt 2014 . I also want to buy a ride on mower. thanks

[@paranormalinvestigatorj.m.5665]

DO YOU HAVE A STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS ON BUILDING A FULLY REMOTE CONTROL LAWN MOWER FROM THE GROUND UP IF SO I WOULD LIKE TO HAVE ONE TO BUILD ME ONE

[@mrbubetube]

anytime you want to seduce the viewer into accepting your views without thinking for himself, just play loud music. this technique works great for UFO videos as well.

[@J4TiDotCom]

Cool but why is the music louder then when you speak. Keep up the research.

[@jerimiahake]

Will you link to the code?

[@tonynsx]

Can you please let me know how you’re starting and shutting down the engine via rc?

[@michaelrechtin]

Just by using some relays to control the pre-existing starter and ignition relays

[@jeffwright4410]

how do you ingadge or dis in =gadge the mower blaDES FROM THE REMOTE

[@oojimmyflip]

Suprizingly enough Remote means on a wire, what you have there Sir is a Radio Control mower.

[@youKnowWho3311]

This is cool, and I can only pray your are either not an engineer or a first year developer of some sort. I hope you are fully aware of how IT systems work and that mechanical servos can fail in any given position. I hope this thing is mechanically fenced in some fashion. I know everyone in the comments will say hey uncle joe bag, don't be a Debbie downer. Just please be onsite when in use. A for creativity, but don't grind your neighbor's dog inot a meat pile because AWS went down or your rasbery PI comms died due to economies of scale in authentication. And Damn sure don't let any enemies hack your stack. Good luck!

[@chanvirghuman3046]

The only way this could get better is if you add a trailer and sit in the trailer while remote control in the lawnmower

[@jtcustomknives]

And man switch the throttle to the left gimble and remove return to center. Center would be neutral and up is forward and down is reverse. Then it just bolts that position. I could not imagine flying FPV and having throttle on a return to center stick.

[@neiljensen9585]

What servos did you use for throttle and choke?

[@michaelrechtin]

They are 55g metal gear servos

[@neiljensen9585]

@@michaelrechtin Thanks!!

[@atom-xgaming7507]

Now make it all into a kit and sell it to the landscaping companies, imagine doing landscaping from the comfort of your couch...

[@grim-views]

Wow I need your help to improve my life sized rc robot I built from an old electric wheelchair all it can do is drive around but I want to be able to control his arms hands and head plus add audio and video transmission. Possibly later have him fully self operating.

[@jacksonwilson3664]

can i have the parts list

[@truetech4158]

I can tell you saw the movie Maximum Overdrive.

[@Bobbysheresomewhere]

Unless they are used to cut steep inclines for safety reasons. Or disabled. Whats the purpose of having one remotely controlled? You're still outside in the heat and you have to move around to stay close enough to actually control it. So why not just control it normally?

[@jbmortensen]

Some of have rough yards to cut. Even with a suspension seat, it is a PITA, literally. This seems like a solution for that.

[@edgarcia1964]

Hello, great job! Do you have the schematics/drawings/parts of your conversion posted somewhere and could share? Or could you email? I will gladly make a donation.

[@walkman1269]

Why not use a analog or digital FPV system such as racing drones? It's a one and done approach. There's VERY little latency. You can pilot a racing drone going 80 miles an hour using it at several hundred feet. You could get a budget kit with goggles for less than 200 dollars. Imagine virtual reality goggles with almost real time response. No web server no encoding and decoding buffering you could run over something and not have time to react.

[@danlatu209]

I hope the radio has failsafe no pulses programmed or you will have a runaway lawn mower in the event your batteries in the radio dies or wifi interference. 🤣😂😜

[@_NCO]

Might wanna keep the grass a bit longer ☠☠

[@KittyToonz]

level 779

[@sylentxtinction2097]

Now I'm wondering how much better my mower will perform without the burden of carrying 200lbs of lazy arse.... 🧏‍♂️🧑‍🔧👨‍🏭

[@drachenfliger1368]

It would bee cool to use seither gps or steereing memori( how I would call it) for full autodrive, kinda like the big machines

[@Thomas59374]

Tractor has a non firing cylinder

[@AquaCarb]

When the blue car speeds off between cars it gets dinged in the back quarter panel then later on it gone.

[@will201084]

I think I found a side project lol

[@punkinhaidmartin]

Maybe dontbstart the video with an aerial view of an apparent drunk ghost weaving around over grass that's already been cut.

[@AwesomeBlackDude]

Farm tractors now have this capability. 😬

[@yoyo-sm5vv]

hook it up to a ps4 controller

[@dallenson534]

779

[@Mack8361]

That's a lawnmower not a tractor 😂

[@samsnephew3209]

Idk why people call mowers tractors. . . Update people had no other term to define what they use. Therefore, they called everything a tractor even if it is a rotor tiller...

[@Maikel1500]

maybe just maybe, you can sit on it and it’s also used to pull somethings. Maybe its the resemblance of a tractor with the tires or the nose.

[@boa2143658709]

Do you correct the quick lube guys too over engine and motor oil?

[@Johnny-adamser]

kind of dangerous

[@rhys.davieswork]

This one makes no sense? Same amount of effort sitting on the thing as using remote control.

[@JohannesKainzkaijoc14]

Nice job man, what Arduino project did you use? is there a GitHub Page for it?