Operating Instructions

•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 jerking 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.

Discharge

Shield

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

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR TILT-UP DECK OPERATION/TRANSPORT

To avoid potential deck and/or tractor damage while using the tilt-up deck, the following recommendations are offered:

•Do not move the tractor with the deck in the tilt- up position since both the roller wheels (on the back of the deck) and the GHS discharge chute may be damaged by moving the tractor. The tilt-up configu- ration should only be used when the tractor is parked.

•The tractor body should never be tilted for- ward with the deck in the tilt-up position. This can cause the deck to unhook from the tractor and fall with considerable force, potentially causing deck or tractor damage and/or bodily injury.

•When transporting a tractor with the deck in the tilt-up position (on a truck or trailer), the deck should be secured to the vehicle with a strap or rope (stop vertical movement). This will prevent the deck from bouncing on the rear roller wheels (caus- ing breakage). This will also prevent the deck from unhooking from the tractor and falling, potentially causing deck or tractor damage. Damage to other items parked in front of the deck may also occur.

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