Walker MT owner manual Recommendations for Mowing, Side Discharge Shield in Lowest Position

Operating Instructions

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR MOWING

IMPORTANT: Operate the engine at full speed when mowing, to allow the engine to produce full horsepower and to increase efficiency of the engine cooling system.

∙Keep the mower deck and discharge chute clean.

∙Mow with sharp blades. A dull blade tears the grass (resulting in poor lawn appearance) and uses extra power (slowing the mowing speed).

∙It is preferable to cut grass when it is dry and not too tall. Mow frequently and do not cut grass too short. (For best appearance, cut off 1/3 or less of existing grass height.)

∙When mowing, operate the engine at or near full throttle for the best cutting action and performance of the grass handling system (GHS). Mowing with a lower engine RPM causes the mowing blade to not cut clean and tear the grass. The engine is designed to be operated at full speed.

∙When mowing in adverse conditions (tall and/or wet grass), mow the grass twice. Raise the mower to the highest setting - 4 in. (102 mm) - for the first pass and then make a second pass cutting to the desired height.

∙Use a slow setting on the FSC for trimming operations.

∙Make sure the mower is leveled properly for a smooth cut. Refer to Deck Leveling in Assembly Instructions.

∙Use an alternating stripe mowing pattern for best appearance and vary the direction of the stripe each time the grass is mowed to avoid wear patterns in the grass.

∙Avoid damage to the grass by slipping and skid- ding of the drive tires. Use smooth control move- ments of the steering levers since the hydrostatic transmissions are “power boosted controls” and jerk- ing the levers can easily slip the tires. For sharp turns, do not allow the inside wheel to stop and twist on grass; pull inside steering lever into reverse for a smooth “rolling” turn (one wheel rolling forward while the other rolls backward).

∙When using a side discharge mower deck, the side discharge shield must not be removed and must be kept in the lowest possible position to deflect grass clippings and thrown objects down- ward. Orient the side discharge away from side- walks or streets to minimize cleanup of clippings. When mowing close to obstacles, orient the side dis- charge away from obstacles to reduce the chance of damage to property by thrown objects.

Side Discharge Shield in Lowest Position

∙When operating on a slope, reduce speed and use caution to start, stop, and maneuver. Avoid sharp turns or sudden changes in direction. The maximum recommended side slope operating angle is 20 degrees or 33% grade.

Maximum Recommended

Side Slope - Do Not Operate

on Steep Slopes

Maximum Recommended Side Slope

35