8
Mowing Tips
Follow the 1/3 rule
The 1/3 rule is key to an enjoyable mowing experience and a
healthy lawn.
1.
You should mow your lawn regularly, at least once a week,
during the growing season.
2.
Be guided by observing the lawn and taking care not to
remove more than 1/3 of the total height of the turf at any
mowing session and never more than 1 inch at a time
(Fig. 11).
3.
Following this rule will stimulate the turf’s root growth,
maintain its health, and encourage its natural ability to
crowd out unwanted weeds.
Tall grass requires incremental cutting
1.
For extremely tall grass, set the cutting height at the
mower's maximum setting for the first pass, and then
reset it to the desired height and mow a second or third
time (Fig. 12).
2.
Removing too much of the turf’s height, especially in the
heat of summer, can cause root shock and weaken the
lawn; bringing down the height by successive mowing
over two or more days can avoid this damage and
maintain the health of the turf.
3.
If the lawn is overgrown (to higher than 4 inches) it may be
necessary to use a brush cutter to remove the excess turf
mass before resuming mowing at normal heights.
NOTE:
Do not cover the grass surface with a heavy layer
of clippings. Consider using a grass collection system and
starting a compost pile.
Care and Maintenance
1.
Minimum care is required to ensure smooth operation of
your mower.
2.
To avoid damage to the mower or cutting blades, keep the
area to be mowed free from debris.
3.
For best results, regularly apply lubricant to the mower’s
cutting surfaces, cutting reel axle shaft, and wheels.
Sharpening the Cutting Blades
1.
Spread a thin layer of lapping compound on the front edge
of the reel blades.
2.
Adjust the cutting bar so that the blade has light but firm
contact across the full width of the bar.
m
CAUTION!
Do not overtighten the adjusting screws, as
this could damage the cutting bar. Tighten both screws during
final adjustment.
3.
Turn the reel blades until the front edge of the cutting bar
blade is polished.
Fig. 10
18 inches
1/3
1"
Fig. 11
Cut here on
first pass
Cut here on
second pass
Fig. 12
Summary of Contents for Sunjoe MJ501M
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