23
Operation
Mowing
1. Engage the parking brake. Make sure that the PTO
switch is disengaged, the ground speed control
levers are locked in the NEUTRAL position and the
operator is in the seat.
2. Start the engine. See Starting the Engine.
3. Set the mower cutting height.
4. Set the throttle to the 1/2 throttle position.
NOTE: It is best practice to engage the PTO with the
throttle set at the minimum throttle position necessary
to engage the deck drive system without stalling the
engine.
5. Engage the PTO by pulling up on the PTO switch.
6. Move the throttle to the “FAST” position and begin
mowing.
7. When finished, reduce throttle speed so that the
engineidles and push the PTO switch down to shut
off the PTO.
8. Stop the engine. See Stopping the Rider.
Mowing Recommendations
Several factors can affect how well your machine cuts
grass, Following proper mowing recommendations
can improve the performance and life of your machine.
Height of Grass
Often cutting height is a matter of personal preference.
Typically, you should mow the grass when it is is
between three and five inches high. The proper cutting
height range for a specific lawn will depend upon
several factors, including the type of grass, the amount
of rainfall, the prevailing temperature, and the lawn’s
overall condition.
Cutting the grass too short causes weak, thin grass
plants, which are easily damaged by dry periods and
pests. Cutting too short is often more damaging than
allowing the grass to be slightly higher.
Letting grass grow a bit longer—especially when it is
hot and dry—reduces heat build-up, preserves needed
moisture and protects the grass from heat damage
and other problems. However, allowing grass to grow
too high can cause thin turf and additional problems.
Cutting off too much at one time shocks the plant’s
growth system and weakens the grass plants. A good
rule of thumb is the 1/3 rule: to cut no more than
one third of the grass height, and never more
than 1 inch at a time.
The amount of grass you are able to cut in one pass
is also effected by the type of mowing system you are
using (for example, broadcasting with side discharge
decks can process a much larger volume of grass than
mulching does).
Tall Grass Requires Incremental Cutting
For extremely tall grass, set the cutting height at
maximum for the first pass, and then reset it to the
desired height and mow a second or third time.
Don’t cover the grass surface with a heavy layer of
clippings. Consider using a grass collection system
and starting a compost pile.
Figure 15. Proper Cutting Height
Figure 16. Incremental Cutting
Cut Here On
First Pass
Cut Here
On Second
Pass
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