increase PTO speed to 1000 rpm and maintain throughout cutting operation.
During operation mowing vibration tends to loosen hardware. All hardware should be checked regularly to maintain proper torque. It is good practice to check mower before each operation to ensure all hardware is tight.
IMPORTANT
■Always raise mower off casters when backing and turning at the same time to prevent casters from locking up on front tractor tires.
MOWING TECHNIQUES
Mowing Speed
The condition of the terrain to be cut will determine the smoothness of final results. For best results, mower blades should be kept sharp at all times and the mower as level as possible. When mower blades show exces- sive wear, they should be replaced.
Proper ground speed for mowing will depend on the height, type and density of grass to be cut. Normally, ground speed will range from two to five mph. Tall, dense grass should be mowed at lower speeds, while thin, medium height grass can be cut at a faster ground speed.
Always operate tractor PTO at 1000 rpm maximum when mowing. This is necessary to maintain proper blade speed to produce a clean cut. Under certain sea- sonal conditions, front tractor tires may roll some grasses down and prevent them from being cut to the same height as the surrounding area. When this occurs, reduce the tractor ground speed, operating tractor PTO at 1000 rpm. The slower speed will permit grasses to at least partially rebound and be cut.
Under some conditions, the grasses will not rebound enough to be cut evenly, resulting in an uneven appearance. In general, lower mowing heights give a more even cut with less tendency to leave tire tracks.
Mowing Tips
Extremely tall grass should be mowed twice. Cut grass higher on first pass. Cut the second time at desired height at 90° to the first pass.
Remember, sharp blades produce cleaner cuts and use less power.
Before mowing, analyze the area to determine the best mowing procedure. Consider the height, type of grass and the terrain type (hilly, level or rough).
A DANGER
■Keep away. To avoid serious injury or death from thrown objects or blade contact, never oper- ate mower without discharge chute or side shield installed.
A DANGER
■Keep hands and feet away from discharge opening.
A WARNING
■Pick up all rocks, twigs and other debris before mowing. Enter new areas carefully. Cut grass higher the first time to allow mower to clear unseen objects. Never assume an area is clear. Always check!
■Clear mowing area of all people when operating mower. Thrown objects could injure bystanders.
Mow with uncut grass to the right. This will distribute the clippings over the cut area. Discharging clippings over uncut grass will cause a buildup and may prevent uniform cutting.
For a professional touch in large open areas, try the mowing pattern in Figure 2. Make two passes counter- clockwise to discharge clippings away from bordering objects. Then cut the lawn in half by mowing down the center. Turn clockwise to the right at end of area over grass previously mowed.
Plan your mowing pattern to travel straight forward whenever possible.
It is better to mow grass more often rather than too short. Short grass deteriorates rapidly in hot weather and invites weed growth during growing seasons. Fol- low local recommendations for the suitable cutting height in your area.
10 Operation | 32695 (Rev. 11/17/2006) |
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