User's Manual

Operation 11
MAN0137 (9/14/01)
Operation Cont’d
Operating Techniques Operating Tips
1. Proper ground speed will depend upon the ter-
rain, the height, type, and density of material to be
cut.
2. Normally, ground speed will range from two to five
mph. Tall dense material should be cut at a low
speed; thin medium-height material can be cut at a
faster ground speed.
3. Always operate tractor mid-PTO at 2000 rpm.
This is necessary to maintain proper blade speed and
produce a clean cut.
4. Under certain conditions, tractor tires may roll
some grass down and prevent it from being cut at the
same height as the surrounding area. When this
occurs, reduce your ground speed, but maintain 2000
rpm mid-PTO speed. The lower ground speed will
permit grass to at least partially rebound.
5. Under some conditions, grass will not rebound
enough to be cut evenly. In general, lower cutting
heights give a more even cut with less tendency to
leave tire tracks. However, it is better to cut grass fre-
quently rather than too short. Short grass deteriorates
rapidly in hot weather and invites weed growth during
growing seasons. Follow local recommendations for
the suitable cutting height in your area.
6. When operating the mower, move the hydraulic
control valve to the float position. This will allow the
mower to follow ground contours.
1. Extremely tall material should be cut twice. Set
mower at a higher cutting height for the first pass.
Then cut at desired height at 90 degrees to the first
pass.
2. Remember, sharp blades produce cleaner cuts
and require less power.
3. Analyze area to be cut to determine the best pro-
cedure. Consider height and type of grass and terrain
type: hilly, level, or rough.
4. Plan your mowing pattern to travel straight for-
ward whenever possible. Mow with uncut grass to the
left. This will distribute the clippings over the cut area.
Discharging clippings over uncut grass will cause a
build-up and may prevent uniform cutting.
5. Use the inside edge of the right front caster wheel
as a cutting guide.
6. When transporting unit a long distance, pin all
four wheels in position 1 as shown in Figure 1, Cut-
ting Height Positions, page 9. Raise mower and
engage lock-up.
7. For a professional touch in large open areas, try
the mowing pattern in Figure 4. Make two or three
passes clockwise to discharge clippings away from
bordering objects. Then cut the lawn in half by mow-
ing down the center. Turn counter-clockwise to the left
at the end of the area over grass previously mowed.
Figure 4 Mowing Pattern
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