Operating Instructions
Lockout Lever
Plunger | Cam in |
UNLOCKED | |
Released | 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 efficiency 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 first 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 deflector shield mustnotberemoved and must be kept in the lowest possible position to deflect grass clippings and thrown objects downward. Orient the side discharge away from sidewalks or streets to minimize cleanup of clippings. When mowing close to obstacles, orient the side discharge away from obstacles to reduce the chance of damage to property by thrown objects.
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