John Deere GM1072 Lawn Mower User Manual


 
Operation 11
5WPMAN0242 (Rev. 5/2/2008)
FRONT CASTER WHEEL INTERFERENCE
CHECK
NOTICE
Do not operate tractor and mower until this
interference check has been performed. If you
change tractors, you must perform the check for
that mounting.
Perform this check with all of the spacers and springs
above the caster wheel arm. This will place the caster
wheels in their highest position and provide the lowest
cutting height for the mower.
Raise mower with tractor hydraulics to 16" at dimen-
sion C or maximum height of tractor lift, whichever is
less.
Pivot both front caster wheels forward and check that
there is clearance between caster wheels and tractor
tires. If there is interference, you must not use front
caster wheels on the mower with this tractor.
Figure 7. Front Gauge Wheel Interference Check
FRONT ROLLER (OPTIONAL)
The caster wheels and side skids effectively reduce
scalping in most cases. However, you may encounter
areas where the caster wheels and/or side skids drop
into depressions and allow center of mower to contact
ground and scalp. An optional front roller may be
installed to minimize scalping.
For Installation instructions See “Front Roller Installa-
tion (Optional)” on page 30.
Power for operating mower is supplied by tractor PTO.
Operate PTO at 540 rpm. Know how to stop tractor and
mower quickly in an emergency.
If mower becomes plugged causing belt to slip for over
two seconds, follow these steps:
1. Maneuver equipment into a previously cut area and
allow mower to clear accumulated material.
2. Continue running at least two minutes, allowing
pulleys to cool. Stopping the mower in contact with
a very hot pulley will bake and ruin belt.
Proper ground speed will depend upon the terrain, the
height, and type and density of material to be cut.
Normally, ground speed will range from 2 to 5 mph. Tall
dense material should be cut at a low speed; thin
medium-height material can be cut at a faster ground
speed.
OPERATING TECHNIQUE
Stop power unit and implement immediately
upon striking an obstruction. Dismount power unit,
using proper procedure. Inspect and repair any
damage before resuming operation.
Always operate tractor PTO at 540 rpm to maintain
proper blade speed and produce 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. When this occurs,
reduce your ground speed, but maintain PTO at 540
rpm. The lower ground speed will permit grass to par-
tially rebound.
In general, lower cutting heights give a more even cut
and leave less tire tracks. However, it is better to cut
grass frequently rather than too short. Short grass
deteriorates rapidly in hot weather and invites weed
growth during growing seasons. Follow local recom-
mendations for the suitable cutting height in your area.
OPERATING TIPS
Inspect and clear area of stones, branches, or
other hard objects that might be thrown, causing
injury or damage.
NOTICE
Mower vibration tends to loosen bolts during
operation. All hardware should be checked regu-
larly to maintain proper torque. It is a good practice
to check mower before each operation to ensure all
hardware is secure.
Extremely tall material should be cut twice. Set mower
at a higher cutting height for the first pass. Then cut at
desired height, 90 degrees to the first pass.
Remember, sharp blades produce cleaner cuts and
require less power.
CAUTION