23
Operation
Mowing
Before mowing, set the cutting height as described in the
Operation
section.
1. Engage the parking brake. Make sure the PTO switch is
disengaged and the ground speed control levers are in
the NEUTRAL position.
2. Start the engine (see
Starting the Engine
).
3. Set the throttle to FULL.
4. Engage the PTO by pulling up on the PTO switch (
E,
Figure 1
).
5. Begin mowing. See
Mowing Recommendations
section for tips on mowing patterns and lawn care.
See
Troubleshooting
section for information on
troubleshooting common cutting problems.
6. When finished, shut off the PTO.
7. 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 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.
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, and then reset it to the desired height and
mow a second 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.
Figure 14. Proper Cutting Height
Figure 15. Incremental Cutting
Cut Here On
First Pass
Cut
Here On
Second
Pass
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