Product Manual

As you become more familiar and experienced with operating
the Zero Turn rider, you will learn more maneuvers that will make
your mowing time easier and more enjoyable.
Remember, the more you practice, the better your control
of the Zero Turn will be!
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 FULL.
5. Engage the PTO by pulling up on the PTO switch.
6. Begin mowing.
7. When finished, 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 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.
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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 (A,
Figure 13), and then reset it to the desired height and mow a
second (B) 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.
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When and How Often to Mow
The time of day and condition of the grass greatly affect the
results you’ll get when mowing. For the best results, follow these
guidelines:
• Mow when the grass is between three and five inches high.
• Mow with sharp blades. Short clippings of grass one inch or
shorter decompose more quickly than longer blades. Sharp
mower blades cut grass cleanly and efficiently, preventing
frayed edges which harm the grass.
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Not for
Reproduction