GROOMING MOWERS - SGM Series - Models SGM 48-60-72-84
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Before conducting the above inspections and service, make sure the tractor engine is off, all rota-
tion parts are completely stopped and the tractor is in park with the parking brake engaged. Make
sure the mower is resting on the ground or securely blocked up.
Once all the checks above have been done, start tractor and mower as follows:
Start engine tractor and engage the tractor PTO at low rpm, making sure that the mower is in
the down position and resting on the ground, then increase speed engine until to 540 rpm;
Start driving the tractor at low speed. Subsequently increase the ground speed until the desired
speed is obtained, depending on ground conditions (see section Operating instruction);
Drive for a while operating the mower, then stop the tractor to check the quality of the work
performed and if the mower is adjusted properly. Once you have made necessary adjustments
(see section Adjustments), you may continue mowing following the instruction of section Operating
instruction to operate properly the mower and get the desired finish cutting. If you need to get
off the tractor, leave the mower in the down position and resting on the ground, reduce engine
speed and disengage PTO, set the parking brake, stop engine and remove the ignition key.
5.2. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
The SGM-series grooming mowers have been designed to cut grass with heights up to 8”. It is
recommended to avoid cutting grass taller than 10”.
Always operate tractor PTO at 540 rpm to maintain proper blades speed and obtain a clean cut.
The proper tractor ground speed should be selected considering: height, type and density of grass,
grass condition (wet or dry), and ground condition (hilly, level, or rough). Generally a ground
speed from 2 to 5 mph (2-8 km/h) applies to most conditions. A test run is suggested to define the
optimal working speed for proper own conditions.
Tall, dense grass should be cut at low speed, while thin medium-height grass can be cut at a fast-
er ground speed. Generally, the grass dispersion is increased by higher ground speeds.
Extremely tall grass should be cut in two passes. Set mower to a high cutting height on the first
pass, then position the mower at the desired height on the second pass. If possible, mow at a 90
degree angle in travel to the first pass.
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 the tractor ground speed but
maintain a 540 rpm engine speed: the lower ground speed will permit the grass to partially re-
bound, thanks to the suction effect of the blades. If grass will not rebound enough to be cut even-
ly, resulting in an uneven and not satisfactory appearance, cut the area twice.
In general, lower cutting height gives a more even cut with less tendency to leave tire tracks.
However, it is better to cut grass more often, rather than too short. Short grass deteriorates rapid-
ly in hot weather and invites weed growth during growing season.
Very low cutting heights should be avoided. Damaging shock loads occur when the blades strike
the ground repeatedly. This can cause damage to the mower.
IMPORTANT
For cleaner cuts and efficient mowing, the blades must be kept sharp. Sharp blades produce
cleaner cuts and require less power.
During operations:
Always keep the tractor engine at 540 rpm rate ensuring to blades the right rotating speed
re-quired for the use;