Bush Hog 12814, Operator'S Manual, Page: 50 / 206

14
Operate Safely
Mower-Thrown Objects (continued)
Disc Mowers — When using a disc mower it is
important to know the area to be mowed. If the operator
has mowed the fi eld before and is familiar with all
obstacles that may be present, it is suffi cient to watch
ahead of the mower path for any additional objects that
may have entered the fi eld. Be ready to stop or avoid
any objects that could be hazardous if thrown by the
mower. If you plan to mow an unfamiliar fi eld and it is
next to a traveled road or people may be within 100
ft (30 m) of the mower you must inspect, and clean or
mark the fi eld.
Mowing In Reverse
Do not mow while traveling in reverse. Objects are more
likely to be thrown and can travel further.
Shut off the PTO, wait for the blades to stop turning,
raise the mower, and then back up.
Mow traveling in the forward direction.
Mowing Ground Speed
Proper ground speed depends on terrain conditions and
grass type, density and height to be cut:
— Normal ground speed range is 2 to 5 mph.
— Use slower ground speed for mowing tall, dense grass.
— Use faster ground speed for mowing medium height,
thin grass and under smooth terrain conditions.
— Use slower ground speed for mowing in rough,
sloping or unfamiliar terrain.
Disc mowers are designed to use faster ground speeds
for operating in fi elds clear of debris and surface hazards.
Use Proper
Ground Speed
Do Not Mow
in Reverse
Operate Safely
Extremely Tall Grass Mowing
You may need to mow extremely tall, non-crop grass
twice. (See page 13,
Mower-Thrown Objects. )
First mowing pass:
— Shut the mower and tractor down using proper
equipment shut down practice before dismounting
tractor. (See page 18,
Proper Equipment Shut Down
Practices. )
— Inspect the area and remove or mark debris and
obstacles.
— Cut grass higher (10-15 inches) to avoid hidden objects.
Second mowing pass:
— Shut the mower and tractor down using proper
equipment shut down practice before dismounting
tractor.
— Inspect the area and remove or mark debris and
obstacles.
— Cut grass at desired height and, when possible,
90 degrees to the fi rst mowing pass.
Watch Equipment Clearances
Three-point hitch and side-mounted mowers have a
larger turning arc than pull-type mowers. Allow suffi cient
clearance for mower swing while turning.
Do not allow bystanders near the tractor and mower
when moving or transporting the tractor and mower.
Provide Adequate
Clearance for
Mower Swing
Stop Blade
Before
Unclogging