MOWING
1.Stop tractor by releasing the traction pedal (8, Figure 1), then slowly lower the mower units.
CAUTION: Dropping cutting units abruptly could damage them or the
2.Engage reel control switch (10, Figure 1) to the "On" position.
3.Depress traction pedal to the desired speed (see Traction Pedal on page 9 and Speed Control on page 9). Reel speed is constant and ground speed is variable with the traction pedal. Do not try to regulate ground speed with engine throttle (see Throttle Lever on page 9).
VERTICAL MOWING UNIT
1.Be aware that the blades can extend below the roller. Use care when lowering cutting units down onto a hard surface to avoid bending the blades.
2.Setting the depth of cut: Always start with shallow, less aggressive cuts. Set the blades to zero (blade tips even with bottom of roller). Gradually increase depth of cut until suitable results are obtained (see HEIGHT OF CUT ADJUSTMENT on page 18).
3.Keep in mind that vertical mowing is similar to cutting grass; you can be too aggressive. When vertical mowing grass that has never been vertical mowed, avoid going too deep to start with. Gradually increase the depth of cut to obtain desired results.
CAUTION: Dropping the vertical cutting units abruptly could damage the blades and/or the
HILLSIDE OPERATION
The 8400 has been designed for good traction and stability under normal mowing conditions. However, caution must still be used during slope operation, especially when the grass is wet.
Wet grass limits traction and steering control.
In order to minimize the possibility of tipping, the least dangerous method of operating on hills and terraces is to travel horizontally to the hill. It is also advisable to avoid any unnecessary turns while operating on hills. Use extreme caution and travel at reduced speeds.
1.When operating on hillsides or slopes, maintain full engine speed, but let up on the traction pedal as power requirements increase. This will maintain the performance necessary.
2.It is best to mow along the side of the hill, starting at the bottom and working upwards. This allows the machine to negotiate the slope without mowing in a downhill direction.
3.It is essential for the correct tire pressure to be established for maximum traction and hillside holding.
PUSHING OR TOWING
INSTRUCTIONS
The 8400 has a
Do not exceed 2 mph (3 km/h) while pushing or towing (see
AFTER OPERATION
1.Clean the entire mower after use. Remove loose grass clippings and caked grass to prevent clogging the vented lubrication points and corroding parts.
2.The engine is air cooled. Do not permit dirt or grass clippings to accumulate on the air intake screen, cylinder heads, or on hydraulic pump cooling fan to prevent serious heat damage to the engine or hydraulic pump.
3.If fan blades become damaged, replace the fan.
GB - 12
