Under most conditions a 6 to 12 km per hour (4 to 7 mph) ground speed is best. As a
rule of thumb, and if the conditions permit, grass dispersion is increased by higher
ground speeds. This is true for both rear and side discharge models.
If you are using a rear discharge mower with a
mulching kit (see fig. 6)
, you need to
reduce your ground speed to under 4 km per hour (2 mph).
The mulching kit is an optional kit available for the rear discharge mowers. This kit
containing 3 multilevel cutting edge blades and add-on containment baffling which bolts
to the underside of the mower deck, mulches and pulverises grass and leaves.
Another benefit of the mulching kit, is safety. In fact, the kit greatly reduces the possibil-
ity of thrown objects. This is particularly important when mowing around schools, public
parks and golf courses.
In order to obtain the best cut possible, always keep the tractor rpm up to the speed
indicated on the mower. When increasing or decreasing mowing ground speed, always
use gear selection, not engine speed. This will maintain the constant maximum blade
speed necessary for a clean cut.
3.08 - Operating Techniques
All of the following factors are important in selecting the proper forward speed:
1. height of grass.
2. Type of grass.
3. Density of grass.
4. Type of terrain.
5. Grass condition, wet or dry.
This mower has been designed to cut grass with heights from 10 to 20 cm. (4" to 8"). It
is recommended to avoid cutting grass taller than 25 cm. (10").
For the best results, try cutting the grass at least once per week during growing season.
Tall, dense grass should be cut at low speed, while thin medium material can be cut at
a faster ground speed. For cleaner cuts and more efficient mowing the blades must be
kept sharp
12
.
Always operate PTO at 540 rpm
13
. This is necessary to maintain proper blade speed
and obtain a clean cut.
Under certain conditions, tractor tires may roll some grass down and prevent it from
being cut at the same height as the surrounding area. If this occurs reduce the tractor
ground speed but maintain a 540 rpm engine speed. The lower ground speed will
permit the grass to at least partially rebound. Under some conditions grass will not
rebound enough to be cut even, resulting in an uneven appearance. In general, lower
cutting height gives a more even cut with less tendency to leave tire tracks. If cut is still
not satisfactory, cut the area twice.
OPERATOR'S MANUAL
CYCLONE 'C50'
ROTOMEC
18
GENERAL INFORMATION
13
A version with PTO at 1000 rpm is available upon request.
12
See Sharpening Blades in section 4.03 - Blade Maintenance.