OPERATION
SIDE ROTARY Operation Section 3-31
© 2011 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
When rotating parts are in motion, serious injury may occur if caution is not used or danger
is not recognized. Never allow bystanders within 300 feet of the machine when in
operation. Extreme care should be taken when operating near loose objects - such as
gravel, rocks and debris. These conditions should be avoided.
The rotating parts in this machine have been designed and tested for rugged use. However, they could fail
upon impact with heavy solid objects-such as steel guard rails, concrete abutments, etc., causing them to be
thrown at a very high velocity. Never allow cutter head to contact such objects. Inspecting the cutting area for
such objects prior to mowing can help eliminate these potential hazards.
Once on location, lower the mower deck slightly above the material to be cut, so the mower does not have to
start under a load. Bring the RPM of the tractor up to 1200 and engage the side mower. If a rear mower is
being used, allow the RPM to return to 1200 before engaging the rear mower.
The rotary mower deck should always be carried rather than dragged on the skid shoes when mowing on the
ground. Dragging the rotary mower heads causes an extreme side load on the tractor resulting in premature
tire wear. It also causes excessive horsepower consumption and drastically decreases blade life. Dragging the
rear mower can also cause damage to the road. Once the necessity skill is attained at controlling the height
and position of the side rotary mower, it will be easy to carry the mower head(s) and do a proficient job of
cutting.
When cutting tall shrubs or small trees (maximum recommended size of material to be cut is 2” diameter),
begin each pass at the top of the material and work down with each consecutive pass. Use a low speed to
allow the cutting blades time to mulch as well as cut the foliage. When the initial pass has been made,
disengage the mower and return the mower to the travel position. Return to the starting point and make next
pass.
When using the rotary cutting head for trimming trees and shrubs, let the mower saw into
them. Do not lower the mower head down directly onto a tree or stump. The mower blades
are designed to cut with the end, and misuse can cause damage to the blade and a
hazardous situation for the operator.
To ensure a clean cut, engine speed should be maintained at approximately 1800-2200 RPM. If the tractor
slows less than 1800 RPM, shift to the next lower gear. DO NOT ride the clutch, this will cause premature
clutch failure. The engine should not be operated at any time at more than 2400 RPM on the tractor
tachometer.
DO NOT use excessive force when positioning cutting head into heavy branches or small stumps (2”
diameter). Damage to the unit may result. It is best to let the cutter head “eat away” slowly at heavy cutting
jobs.
The mower will operate more efficiently in tougher conditions and with less power if the knives are kept sharp.
If the mower begins to vibrate, stop the tractor, check for wire wrapped in the spindle or damaged knives.
When replacing knives, replace all knives with new knives to ensure proper balance so the mower will not
vibrate. Severe vibration will result, if knives with unequal wear are used. Follow the instructions in the
Maintenance Section closely when replacing knife blades.
If bystanders approach within 300 feet while mower is in operation, turn mower switch
“OFF” immediately! After shutdown, never leave the tractor or allow bystanders to approach
within 300 feet of the unit until all motion stops completely.