Operating Instructions
36
Lockout Lever
Plunger
Released
Cam in
UNLOCKED
Position
Lockout Lever - Normal Operating Position
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR MOWING
DANGER
Do not mow around overhanging tree
branches or bushes at the same height as
the operator’s torso and head where inad-
vertent contact may cause injury.
Avoid Low Hanging Branches
IMPORTANT: Operate the engine at full throttle
when mowing, to allow the engine to produce full
horsepower and to increase efciency of the engine
cooling system.
• Keep the mower deck and discharge chute clean.
• Mow with sharp blades. A dull blade tears the
grass (resulting in poor lawn appearance) and uses
extra power (slowing the mowing speed).
• It is preferable to cut grass when it is dry and not
too tall. Mow frequently and do not cut grass too
short. (For best appearance, cut off 1/3 or less of
existing grass height.)
• When mowing, operate the engine at full throttle
for the best cutting action and performance of the
grass handling system (GHS). Mowing with a lower
engine RPM causes the mowing blade to not cut
clean and tear the grass. The engine is designed to
be operated at full speed.
• When mowing in adverse conditions (tall and/or
wet grass), mow the grass twice. Raise the mower
to the highest setting - 4 in. (102 mm) - for the rst
pass and then make a second pass cutting to the
desired height.
• Use a slow setting on the FSC for trimming op-
erations.
• Make sure the mower is leveled properly for a
smooth cut. Refer to Deck Leveling in Assembly In-
structions.
• Use an alternating stripe mowing pattern for
best appearance and vary the direction of the stripe
each time the grass is mowed to avoid wear patterns
in the grass.
• Avoid damage to the grass by slipping and skid-
ding of the drive tires. Use smooth control move-
ments of the steering levers since the hydrostatic
transmissions are “power boosted controls” and jerk-
ing the levers can easily slip the tires. For sharp turns,
do not allow the inside wheel to stop and twist on
grass; pull inside steering lever into reverse for a
smooth “rolling” turn (one wheel rolling forward while
the other rolls backward).
• When using a side discharge mower deck, the
side discharge deector shield must not be removed
and must be kept in the lowest possible position to
deect grass clippings and thrown objects down ward.
Orient the side discharge away from side walks or
streets to minimize cleanup of clippings. When
mowing close to obstacles, orient the side dis charge
away from obstacles to reduce the chance of damage
to property by thrown objects.