13.Readjust the steering control rods and the brake rods. They may require frequent adjustment until the belts and brake bands have properly seated. These adjustments are described in items 6 and 7 of the Initial Adjustment section.
14.After the first full day of mowing, all nuts, bolt and screws should be rechecked for proper tightness and the belts should be rechecked for proper tension.
USING THE MOWER
IMPORTANT: First time operators should refer to the procedure stated on page 5.
1.Be sure area is clear of rocks, sticks, toys, wire, or other objects that could be thrown by the mower. Survey the entire area to be mowed. Make sure that the accessories and attachments would be suitable for use on the terrain.
2.With the neutral latches locked and the operator presence levers depressed, select a mowing speed. (a slower speed is suggested during first time use.)
3.Engage the mower by pushing the blade clutch lever forward until it locks.
4.Squeeze the steering control levers and release the neutral latches.
5.Slowly release the steering control levers and the mower should go straight ahead.
6.To operate in Reverse, look behind and down before backing up to be sure the path is clear.
7.Be aware of the mower discharge and do not point it at anyone, or onto sidewalks and streets.
8.Use care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees or other objects that could obstruct vision.
9.To mow grass and produce a striped pattern:
a.Pick a point on the opposite side of the area to be mowed (post, tree, shrub, etc).
b.If on a hillside, start at the bottom so that the turns are uphill rather than downhill.
c.Align the mower so as to head directly toward the object on the far side.
d.Slowly increase the speed of the machine to match cutting conditions, terrain, and operator familiarity with the controls and keep the machine headed directly toward the alignment object. Do not go fast as to reduce cut quality or to be uncomfortable in controlling the speed and direction of the machine.
e.When approaching the other end of a strip, slow down or stop before turning. A
f.To prevent rutting or grooving of the turf, change the direction that the strips are mowed by approximately 45 degrees the next and each subsequent time that the
area is mowed.
g.If the grass is repeatedly mowed in the same direction, it will be “trained” so that the Striped appearance is more pronounced and longer lasting. Grooving of the turf from the tires will occur.
10.For empting material collection systems or for any other operation involving the mower deck, before leaving the operator station:
•shut off the mower deck.
•place the transmission in neutral.
•latch the neutral locks.
•shut off the engine.
•apply wheel chocks.
TRANSPORTING MOWER
1.If ramps are used, be sure they are secured to the trailer, truck bed, etc. and are designed for the application.
2.The mower should be pushed or pulled onto or off the trailer, truck bed, etc., never try to drive it on.
3.Turn the fuel valve off.
4.Secure mower with chocks, straps, etc.
5.Make sure accessories and attachments are secured or removed.
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