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Operating Instructions
33
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 jerk-
ing 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