Operation
Proper Mulching
Mulching consists of a mower deckwhich cuts and recuts
clippings into tiny particles and which then blows them
down INTOthe lawn. These tiny particles decompose rapidly
into by-products your lawn can use. UNDERPROPER
CONDITIONS,your mulching mower will virtually eliminate
noticeable clippings on the lawn surface.
NOTE:When mulching under heavycutting conditions, a
rumbling sound may be present and is normal.
MulchingRequiresEXCELLENTMowing Conditions
Mulching mowers cannot function properly if the grass is
wet, or if the grass is simply to high to cut. Even more than
normal mowing, mulching requires that the grass be dry
and the the appropriate amount is cut.
Do not usethe mower as a mulching mower during the first
two or three mowings in the spring. Thelong grass blades,
quick growth, and often wetter conditions are more suitable
for broadcasting (side-discharging) or grass bagging
operation.
EngineSpeed & GroundSpeedfor Mulching
Usefull enginethrottle matchedwith a slow ground speed
so that clippings will be finely cut. Ground speedwhile
mulching should be HALFof the speedthat would be used
when broadcasting (side discharging) under similar
conditions. Since mulching requires more horsepowerthan
broadcasting, using a slower ground speedis vitally
important for proper mulching operation.
How Much Grassto Mulch
Thebest mulching action typically results from cutting only
the top 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch of grass blade. This provides
short clippings which decomposeproperly (much more
quickly than longer clippings). The ideal cutting height will
vary with climate, time ofyear, and quality of your lawn. We
recommend that you experiment with both the cutting height
and ground speed until you achievethe best cut. Start with a
high cutting height and using progressively lower settings
until you find a cutting height that is matched to your
mowing conditions and preferences.
AttachingATrailer
Themaximum weight of a towed trailer should be less than
200 Ibs (91kg). Securethe trailer with a appropriately sized
clevis pin (A, Figure 19) and clip (B).
Excessivetowed loads cancause loss of traction and loss of
control on slopes. Reducetowed weight when operating on
slopes. The surface being driven on greatly impacts traction
and stability. Wet or slippery surfaces cangreatly reduce
traction and the ability to stop or turn. Carefully evaluatethe
surface conditions before operating the unit and trailer, and
neveroperateon slopes greaterthan 10°. SeeSLOPE
OPERATIONand TOWEDEQUIPMENTin the safety section
of this manualfor additional safety information.
0
(lm)
20' (6m) ?
Figure 19. Trailer Weight Recommendations
A. Clevis Pin
B. Clip
Figure 18. Mulching Action
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