Section 4: Operation 11
OPERATING TIPS & TECHNIQUES
Tips for Precision Cutting
Use Extreme Caution on Slopes
For the most precise cutting possible, be sure to select the appropriate line cutting height and trimmer line size (thickness) for the conditions at hand.
When mowing, let the cutting head rest lightly on the ground, without lifting up or pushing down on the handlebars. This tech- nique allows the cutting head to follow the ground contour closely, resulting in the most even cut possible.
Also, be sure to ease into heavy growth to prevent overwhelming the machine.
When operating on sloping ground, use extreme caution and common sense to avoid possible injury or property damage.
Do not mow on excessively steep slopes! Avoid slopes if greater than 150 or wherever footing is unsure. If a slope is difficult to stand on, it is probably too steep to trim or mow. In this case, it may be wiser to establish a permanent ground cover on this area.
Do not trim on slopes when the ground is slippery. Trim across the face of a slope, not up and down. Slow down and exercise caution when changing direction on slopes.
Trim When Wet or Dry
Grass and most other materials are most efficiently trimmed when dry. But the unit will do a fine job even with damp or wet materials. When conditions are moist or damp, be sure to clean debris off the machine regularly to keep cutting efficiency high. And watch your footing!
Clean the Unit On
a Regular Basis
Clean under the mower deck frequently to remove any debris buildup. Also clean around the muffler and on top of engine.
See the cleaning instructions in Section 5: “Maintenance.”
| Do Not Let the Trimmer Lines |
| Keep the Mowed Side On the |
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| Become Too Short |
| Right While Moving Forward |
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| When the trimmer lines wear to less |
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| The trimmer/mower discharges cut |
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| than 1/2 their original length, trimming |
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| materials to the right side. |
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| jobs will take far longer than necessary. |
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| For best results, stay on the right side of |
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| As a general guideline, install new lines |
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| unmowed growth as you move along. |
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| when they wear to 1/2 their original |
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Vary the Throttle Setting
According to Conditions
The majority of trimming and mowing jobs will yield the best results if the throttle control is set at the fastest speed.
Less demanding jobs (and projects that require very precise cutting) will yield better results if the engine speed is somewhat reduced. For example, damage to trees and ornamentals can be avoided by reducing the engine speed, using the lighter .130" diameter line, and by keeping a safe distance away.
Again, once you begin a particular job and get a “feel” for the conditions, you will be able to make adjustments for the best possible results.
Use the Correct
Walking Speed
Use a travel speed that is suitable for the condi- tions at hand.
For example, you’ll get better trimming and mowing results at slower walking speeds if the grass is tall or lush.
Shorter grass or less dense growth can be cut at faster travel speeds.
