Operating Tips

Operation

WARNING

Loading a unit on a trailer or truck increases the possibility of backward tip-over. Backward tip-over could cause serious injury or death.

•Use extreme caution when operating a unit on a ramp.

•Use only a single, full width ramp; Do Not use individual ramps for each side of the unit.

•If individual ramps must be used, use enough ramps to create an unbroken ramp surface wider than the unit.

•Do Not exceed a 15° angle between ramp and ground or between ramp and trailer or truck.

•Avoid sudden acceleration while driving unit up a ramp to avoid tipping backward.

•Avoid sudden deceleration while backing unit down a ramp to avoid tipping backward.

Fast Throttle Setting

For best mowing and maximum air circulation, operate the engine at the Fast position. Air is required to thoroughly cut grass clippings, so Do Not set the height-of-cut so low as to totally surround the mower by uncut grass. Always try to have one side of the mower free from uncut grass, which allows air to be drawn into the mower.

Cutting a Lawn for the First Time

Cut grass slightly longer than normal to ensure that the cutting height of the mower does not scalp any uneven ground. However, the cutting height used in the past is generally the best one to use. When cutting grass longer than six inches tall, you may want to cut the lawn twice to ensure an acceptable quality of cut.

Loading a Unit

Use extreme caution when loading units on trailers or trucks. One full width ramp that is wide enough to extend beyond the rear tires is recommended instead of individual ramps for each side of the unit. The lower rear section of the tractor frame extends back between the rear wheels and serves as a stop for tipping backward. Having a full width ramp provides a surface for the frame members to contact if the unit starts to tip backward. If it is not possible to use one full width ramp, use enough individual ramps to simulate a full width continuous ramp.

Ramp should be long enough so that the angles between the ramp and the ground and the ramp and the trailer or truck Do Not exceed 15°. A steeper angle may cause mower deck components to get caught as the unit moves from ramp to trailer or truck. Steeper angles may also cause the unit to tip backward. If loading on or near a slope, position the trailer or truck so it is on the down side of the slope and the ramp extends up the slope. This will minimize the ramp angle. The trailer or truck should be as level as possible.

Important: Do Not attempt to turn the unit while on the ramp, you may lose control and drive off the side.

Avoid sudden acceleration when driving up a ramp and sudden deceleration when backing down a ramp. Both maneuvers can cause the unit to tip backward.

Cut 1/3 of the Grass Blade

It is best to cut only about 1/3 of the grass blade. Cutting more than that is not recommended unless grass is sparse, or it is late fall when grass grows more slowly.

Mowing Direction

Alternate mowing direction to keep the grass standing straight. This also helps disperse clippings which enhances decomposition and fertilization.

Mow at Correct Intervals

Normally, mow every four days. But remember, grass grows at different rates at different times. So to maintain the same cutting height, which is a good practice, mow more often in early spring. As the grass growth rate slows in mid summer, mow less frequently. If you cannot mow for an extended period, first mow at a high cutting height; then mow again two days later at a lower height setting.

Cutting Speed

To improve cut quality, use a slower ground speed.

Avoid Cutting Too Low

If the cutting width of the mower is wider than the mower you previously used, raise the cutting height to ensure that uneven turf is not cut too short.