MTD 51M, 80M, 60M, 35M, 75M, 50M, 61M manual Introduction, Setting UP

Rover Mowers Limited MULCH 'N CATCHTM

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Mulching

The Rover Mulch ‘N Catch mower setup as a mulching mower (grass catcher removed and mulch plug fitted) reduces the grass clippings into very fine particles. The design allows for the even distribution of the grass particles at the base of the lawn.

The mulched clippings can then:

•Break down quickly, releasing nutrients into the soil, saving on fertiliser costs.

•Reduce evaporation of moisture from the soil which reduces watering costs and effort.

•Help to control temperature extremes protecting the roots of the grass.

•Assist in controlling soil erosion.

1.2 Benefits for your lawn

Research has shown that lawns are usually cut too short. Grass, like any other plant life, relies on photosynthesis to regenerate and survive.

Reduced leaf size (from cutting too low) can seriously affect a lawn by:

•Making it easy prey for disease.

•Encouraging weeds to take hold.

•Exposing the soil to:

–greater evaporation;

–temperature extremes; and

–erosion.

Raising the cut height and using mulch mowing follows the best practice for nurturing a healthier more attractive lawn with less water usage.

1.3 Benefits for you

Because you mulch as you mow the time and cost savings are also significant:

•Eliminates raking of leaves before mowing (the Mulch ‘N Catch mower picks up and converts fallen leaves into mulch).

•Eliminates raking of cut grass.

•Saves the time spent emptying the catcher.

•Automatically disposes of grass clippings.

•Eliminates the need to dispose of clippings at the refuse tip.

2. SETTING UP

2.1 Multipurpose

WARNING

Before removing or installing the mulch plug or grasscatcher. The engine must be stopped.

Your Mulch ‘N Catch mower is fitted with multipurpose cutting blades for both mulching and catching, as shipped from the factory. It is also supplied with a mulch plug for mulch mowing and a grass catcher for catch mowing. To convert to a mulching mower install the mulch plug (Refer 2.2 or 2.3) and adjust the conbar to suit (Refer 2.7).

To convert to a catching mower, install the grass catcher (Refer Owner’s Manual), and adjust the conbar to suit (Refer 2.8).

2.2Installing the Mulch Plug for Models 35m and 75m (Figure 1):

1.Stop the engine.

2.Lift the rear flap of the mower.

3.Remove the grass catcher or deflector (if fitted).

4.Insert the long right hand side of the mulch plug first, into the rear of the mower.

5.Guide the mulch plug in until the spring tab rests against the top edge of the mower base and the lower edge rests on the front top edge of the axle retaining bracket.

6.Give the mulch plug a firm jolt forward and down into place.

Figure 1 - Installing the Mulch Plug -

35m, 75m

1