Not for
Reproduction
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As you become more familiar and experienced with operating
the Zero Turn rider, you will learn more maneuvers that will
make your mowing time easier and more enjoyable.
Remember, the more you practice, the better your control
of the Zero Turn will be!
Mowing
1. Engage the parking brake. Make sure that the PTO
switch is disengaged, the ground speed control levers are
locked in the NEUTRAL position and the operator is in the
seat.
2. Start the engine. See
Starting the Engine
.
3. Set the mower cutting height.
4. Set the throttle to the 1/2 throttle position.
Note:
It is best practice to engage the PTO with the throttle
set at the minimum throttle position necessary to engage the
deck drive system without stalling the engine.
5. Engage the PTO by pulling up on the PTO switch.
6. Move the throttle to the "FAST" position and begin
mowing.
7. When finished, reduce throttle speed so that the engine
idles and push the PTO switch down to shut off the PTO.
8. Stop the engine. See
Stopping the Rider
.
Mowing Recommendations
Several factors can affect how well your machine cuts grass,
Following proper mowing recommendations can improve the
performance and life of your machine.
Height of Grass
Often cutting height is a matter of personal preference.
Typically, you should mow the grass when it is between three
and five inches high. The proper cutting height range for
a specific lawn will depend upon several factors, including
the type of grass, the amount of rainfall, the prevailing
temperature, and the lawn’s overall condition.
Cutting the grass too short causes weak, thin grass plants,
which are easily damaged by dry periods and pests. Cutting
too short is often more damaging than allowing the grass to
be slightly higher.
Letting grass grow a bit longer—especially when it is hot and
dry—reduces heat build-up, preserves needed moisture and
protects the grass from heat damage and other problems.
However, allowing grass to grow too high can cause thin turf
and additional problems.
Cutting off too much at one time shocks the plant’s growth
system and weakens the grass plants.
A good rule of thumb
is the 1/3 rule: to cut no more than one third of the grass
height, and never more than 1 inch at a time.
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The amount of grass you are able to cut in one pass is also
effected by the type of mowing system you are using (for
example, broadcasting with side discharge decks can process
a much larger volume of grass than mulching does).
Tall grass requires incremental cutting.
For extremely tall
grass, set the cutting height at maximum for the first pass (A,
Figure 16), and then reset it to the desired height and mow a
second (B) or third time.
Don’t cover the grass surface with a heavy layer of clippings.
Consider using a grass collection system and starting a
compost pile.
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When and How Often to Mow
The time of day and condition of the grass greatly affect the
results you’ll get when mowing. For the best results, follow
these guidelines:
• Mow when the grass is between three and five inches
high.
• Mow with sharp blades. Short clippings of grass one inch
or shorter decompose more quickly than longer blades.
Sharp mower blades cut grass cleanly and efficiently,
preventing frayed edges which harm the grass.
• Mow at time of day when the grass is cool and dry. Late
afternoon or early evening often provide these ideal
mowing conditions.
