11
Setting the Height-of-Cut
The height-of-cut lever is used to raise and lower the
mower to the desired cutting height. You can set the
height-of-cut to one of seven positions from approximately
1-1/2 to 4-1/2 inches (38 to 116 mm).
1. Park the machine on a level surface, disengage the PTO,
set the parking brake, stop the engine, and remove the
ignition key.
2. Pull on the height-of-cut lever on the tractor and move
it to the desired position (Fig. 21).
m–1853
1
4-1/2 in. (116 mm)
1-1/2 in. (38 mm)
2 in. (51 mm)
2-1/2 in. (64 mm)
3 in. (76 mm)
3-1/2 in. (89 mm)
4 in. (102 mm)
Approximately
Figure 21
1.
Height-of-cut lever
3. Adjust each mower gage wheel to the correct height, as
follows:
A. Remove the hairpin cotter and pin to change the
hole location (Fig. 22).
1233
1
2
3
Figure 22
1.
Wheel
2.
Pin
3.
Hairpin cotter
B. Select a hole position so that the gage wheel is
3/8 in. (10 mm) off of the ground for the
height-of-cut to be used (Fig. 22).
C. Insert the pin and secure it with the hairpin cotter.
Tips for Mowing Grass
Fast Throttle Setting
For best mowing and maximum air circulation, operate the
engine at Fast. Air is required to thoroughly cut grass
clippings, so do not set the height of cut too low or totally
surround the mower by uncut grass. Always try to have one
side of the mower free from uncut grass, which allows air
to be drawn into the mower.
Cutting a Lawn for the First Time
Cut grass slightly longer than normal to ensure that the
cutting height of the mower does not scalp any uneven
ground. However, the cutting height used in the past is
generally the best one to use. When cutting grass longer
than 6 in. (15 cm) tall, you may want to cut the lawn twice
to assure an acceptable quality-of-cut.
Cut 1/3 of the Grass Blade
It is best to cut only about 1/3 of the grass blade. Cutting
more than that is not recommended, unless grass is sparse
or it is late fall when grass grows more slowly.
Mowing Direction
Alternate mowing direction to keep the grass standing
straight. This also helps disperse clippings which enhances
decomposition and fertilization.
Mow at Correct Intervals
Normally, mow every 4 days. But remember, grass grows at
different rates at different times. So to maintain the same
cutting height, which is a good practice, mow more often in
early spring. As the grass growth rate slows in mid summer,
mow less frequently. If you cannot mow for an extended
period, first mow at a high cutting height; then mow again
2 days later at a lower height setting.
Avoid Cutting Too Low
If the cutting width of the mower is wider than the mower
you previously used, raise the cutting height one notch to
ensure that uneven turf is not cut too short.
Long Grass
If the grass is ever allowed to grow slightly longer than
normal, or if it contains a high degree of moisture, raise the
cutting height higher than usual and cut the grass at this
setting. Then cut the grass again using the lower, normal
setting.
