Operating Instructions
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR MOWING
IMPORTANT: Operate the engine at full speed 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 or near 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 operations.
•Make sure the mower is leveled properly for a smooth cut. Refer to Deck Leveling in Assembly
Instructions.
•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 shield must not be removed and must be kept in the lowest possible position to deflect 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.
Side Discharge Shield in Lowest Position
•When operating on a slope, reduce speed and use caution to start, stop, and maneuver. Avoid sharp turns or sudden changes in direction. The maximum recommended side slope operating angle is 20 degrees or 33% grade.
Maximum Recommended
Side Slope - Do Not Operate
on Steep Slopes
Maximum Recommended Side Slope
33