Front Caster Wheel Interference Check

NOTICE

■Do not operate tractor and mower until this interference check has been performed. If you change tractors, you must perform the check for that mounting.

Figure 8. Front Caster Wheel Interference Check

Perform this check with all of the spacers above caster wheel arm. This will place caster wheels in their highest position and provide lowest cutting height for mower.

1.Raise mower with tractor hydraulics to 16" at dimension C or maximum height of tractor lift, whichever is less.

2.Pivot both front caster wheels forward and check that there is clearance between caster wheels and tractor tires.

3.If there is interference adjust mower hitch arm (E) as shown in Figure 7.

NOTE: If interference continues, see tractor operator's manual and adjust tractor wheels to narrower spacing.

FRONT ROLLER (OPTIONAL)

The caster wheels and side skids effectively reduce scalping in most cases. However, you may encounter areas where the caster wheels and/or side skids drop into depressions and allow center of the mower to con- tact ground and scalp. An optional front roller may be installed to minimize scalping. See page 31.

OPERATING TECHNIQUE

CAUTION

Stop power unit and implement immediately upon striking an obstruction. Dismount power unit,

using proper procedure. Inspect and repair any damage before resuming operation.

Power for operating mower is supplied by tractor PTO. Operate PTO at 540 rpm. Know how to stop tractor and mower quickly in an emergency.

If mower becomes plugged causing belt to slip for over two seconds follow these steps:

1.Maneuver equipment into a previously cut area and allow mower to clear accumulated material.

2.Continue running at least two minutes, allowing pulleys to cool. Stopping the mower in contact with a very hot pulley will bake and ruin belt.

Proper ground speed will depend upon the terrain, the height, and type and density of material to be cut.

Normally, ground speed will range from 2 to 5 mph. Tall dense material should be cut at a low speed; thin medium-height material can be cut at a faster ground speed.

Always operate tractor PTO at 540 rpm to maintain proper blade speed and produce a clean cut.

Under certain conditions, tractor tires may roll some grass down and prevent it from being cut at the same height as the surrounding area. When this occurs, reduce your ground speed, but maintain PTO at 540 rpm. The lower ground speed will permit grass to par- tially rebound.

In general, lower cutting heights give a more even cut and leave less tire tracks. However, it is better to cut grass frequently rather than too short. Short grass deteriorates rapidly in hot weather and invites weed growth during growing seasons. Follow local recom- mendations for the suitable cutting height in your area.

Operating Tips

Inspect and clear area of stones, branches, or other hard objects that might be thrown, causing injury or damage.

Extremely tall material should be cut twice. Set mower at a higher cutting height for the first pass. Then cut at desired height, 90 degrees to the first pass.

Remember, sharp blades produce cleaner cuts and require less power.

Analyze area to be cut to determine the best proce- dure. Consider height and type of grass and terrain type: hilly, level, or rough.

MAN0845 (1/12/2011)	Operation 13