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Operating Instructions
37
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR MOWING
IMPORTANT: Operate the engine at full speed
when mowing, to allow the engine to produce full
horsepower and to increase efficiency of the engine
cooling system.
• Keep the mower deck and discharge chute clean.
• Mow with sharp blades. A dull blade tears the
grass (resulting in poor lawn appearance) and uses
extra power (slowing the mowing speed).
• It is preferable to cut grass when it is dry and not
too tall. Mow frequently and do not cut grass too
short. (For best appearance, cut off 1/3 or less of
existing grass height.)
• When mowing, operate the engine at or near full
throttle for the best cutting action and performance
of the grass handling system (GHS). Mowing with a
lower engine RPM causes the mowing blade to not
cut clean and tear the grass. The engine is
designed to be operated at full speed.
• When mowing in adverse conditions (tall and/or
wet grass), mow the grass twice. Raise the mower to
the highest setting - 4 in. (102 mm) - for the first pass
and then make a second pass cutting to the desired
height.
• Use a slow setting on the FSC for trimming
operations.
• Make sure the mower is leveled properly for a
smooth cut. Refer to Deck Leveling in Assembly
Instructions.
• Use an alternating stripe mowing pattern for
best appearance and vary the direction of the stripe
each time the grass is mowed to avoid wear patterns
in the grass.
• Avoid damage to the grass by slipping and skid-
ding of the drive tires. Use smooth control move-
ments of the steering levers since the hydrostatic
transmissions are “power boosted controls” and
jerking the levers can easily slip the tires. For sharp
turns, do not allow the inside wheel to stop and twist
on grass; pull inside steering lever into reverse for a
smooth “rolling” turn (one wheel rolling forward while
the other rolls backward).
• When using a side discharge mower deck, the
side discharge shield must not be removed and
must be kept in the lowest possible position to
deflect grass clippings and thrown objects down-
ward. Orient the side discharge away from side-
walks or streets to minimize cleanup of clippings.
When mowing close to obstacles, orient the side dis-
charge away from obstacles to reduce the chance of
damage to property by thrown objects.
Side Discharge Shield in Lowest Position
• When operating on a slope, reduce speed and
use caution to start, stop, and maneuver. Avoid
sharp turns or sudden changes in direction. The
maximum recommended side slope operating
angle is 20 degrees or 33% grade.
Maximum Recommended Side Slope
Maximum Recommended
Side Slope - Do Not Operate
on Steep Slopes