OPERATION
PTO RPM and Ground Speed
Ground speed for mowing will depend upon the height, type, and density of vegetation to be cut. Recommended speed
for efficient mower performance is between 2 and 5 mph(3-8 kph). Operate the mower at its full rated PTO speed to
maintain blade speed for a clean cut. Refer to the tractor operator’s manual or the tractor instrument panel for the
engine speed and gear to provide the required PTO and desired ground speed. Make sure that the mower is operating
at its full rated speed before entering the vegetation to be cut. If it becomes necessary to temporarily regulate engine
speed, increase or decrease the throttle gradually.
Ground speed is achieved by transmission gear selection and not by the engine operating speed. The operator may be
required to experiment with several gear range combinations to determine the best gear and range which provides the
most ideal performance from the mower and most efficient tractor operation. As the severity of cutting conditions
increase, the ground speed should be decreased by selecting a lower gear to maintain the proper operating PTO
speed. OPS-R-0025
OPERATION
Do not exceed the rated PTO speed for the Implement. Excessive PTO speeds can cause
Implement driveline or blade failures resulting in serious injury or death. (SG-26)
Mow at the speed that you can s afely operate and control the tractor and mower. The correct
mowing speed depends on terrain condition and grass type, density, and height of cut.
Normal ground speed range is from 2 to 5 mph(3-8 km/h). Use slow mowing speeds when
operating on or near steep slopes, ditches, drop-offs, overhead obstructions, power lines, or
when debris and foreign objects are to be avoided. (SGM-07)
Operating the Mower
Only operate the mower from the tractor operator’s seat with the seatbelt securely fastened. The tractor must be
equipped with a ROPS in the raised position or a ROPS cab.
The mower is designed to cut vegetation up to 1” in diameter. Sharp blades will produce a cleaner cut and require less
power. Travel at a spee d that allows the mower sufficient time to cut through the vegetation and maintain the PTO
operating speed to prevent overloading th e mower and t ractor. Choose a driving pattern that provides the maximum
pass length and minimizes turning.
Under certain conditions, tractor tires may roll some grasses down preventing them from being cut at the same height
as the surrounding area. W hen this occurs, reduce the tractor ground speed while maintaining the operating speed of
the mower. A slower ground speed will permit grasses to at least partially rebound and be cut. Taking a partial cut
and/or reversing the direction of travel may also help produce a cleaner cut.
Avoid mowing in the re verse direction when possible. In situations where the mower must be backed to access areas
to be cut, make s ure there are no persons o r other foreign debris behind the mower before mowing in re verse. When
mowing in reverse, operate the tractor and mower at a reduced ground speed to ensure tractor and mower control is
maintained. OPS-R-0026_G
Before operating the mower place the mower on the ground so that the disc carrier bar is horizontal. Also make sure
that the knives are well sharpened, especially if the grass is thin, dry or sparse. Switch on the power take off rotation
and gradually accelerate.
AGM 52-62-72-82 10/10 Operation Section 4-36 © 2010 Alamo Group Inc.