Simplicity 5101604 Mowing Recommendations, Operation, Height of Grass, Proper Cutting Height

Operation

Mowing

Before mowing, set the cutting height as described in the Operation section.

1.Engage the parking brake. Make sure the PTO switch is disengaged and the ground speed control levers are in the NEUTRAL position.

2.Start the engine (see Starting the Engine).

3.Set the throttle to FULL.

4.Engage the PTO by pulling up on the PTO switch (E, Figure 1).

5.Begin mowing. See Mowing Recommendations section for tips on mowing patterns and lawn care. See Troubleshooting section for information on troubleshooting common cutting problems.

6.When finished, shut off the PTO.

7.Stop the engine (see Stopping the Rider).

Mowing Recommendations

Several factors can affect how well your machine cuts grass, Following proper mowing recommendations can improve the performance and life of your machine.

Height of Grass

Often cutting height is a matter of personal preference. Typically, you should mow the grass when it is is between three and five inches high. The proper cutting height range for a specific lawn will depend upon several factors, including the type of grass, the amount of rainfall, the prevailing temperature, and the lawn’s overall condition.

Cutting the grass too short causes weak, thin grass plants, which are easily damaged by dry periods and pests. Cutting too short is often more damaging than allowing the grass to be slightly higher.

Letting grass grow a bit longer—especially when it is hot and dry—reduces heat build-up, preserves needed moisture and protects the grass from heat damage and other problems. However, allowing grass to grow too high can cause thin turf and additional problems.

Cutting off too much at one time shocks the plant’s growth system and weakens the grass plants. A good rule of thumb is the 1/3 rule: to cut no more than one third of the grass height, and never more than 1 inch at a time.

The amount of grass you are able to cut in one pass is also effected by the type of mowing system you are using (for example, broadcasting with side discharge decks can process a much larger volume of grass than mulching does).

Figure 14. Proper Cutting Height

Tall Grass Requires Incremental Cutting

For extremely tall grass, set the cutting height at maximum for the first pass, and then reset it to the desired height and mow a second or third time.

Don’t cover the grass surface with a heavy layer of clippings. Consider using a grass collection system and starting a compost pile.

Cut Here On
	Cut
First Pass	Here On
	Second
	Pass

Figure 15. Incremental Cutting

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