Poulan 460ZX User Manual - Page 31

operation Mowing Tips • Observe and flag rocks and other fixed objects to avoid collisions. • Begin with a high cutting height and reduce it until the desired mowing result is attained. The average lawn should be cut to 2½" (64 mm) during the cool season and over 3" (76 mm) during the hot months. For healthier and better looking lawns, mow often after moderate growth. For best cutting performance, grass over 6" (15 cm) in height should be mowed twice. Make the first cut relatively high; the second to the desired height. • The mowing result will be best with a high engine speed (the blades rotate rapidly) and low speed (the rider moves slowly). If the grass is not too long and dense, the driving speed can be increased without negatively affecting the mowing result. • The finest lawns are obtained by mowing often. The lawn becomes more even and the grass clippings more evenly distributed over the mown area. The total time taken is not increased as a higher operating speed can be used without poor mowing results. • Avoid mowing wet lawns. The mowing result is poorer because the wheels sink into the soft lawn, clumps build, and the grass clippings fasten under the cowling. • Hose the mower deck underside with water after each use. When cleaning, the mower deck shall be raised into the transport position. Make sure the mower is cooled and the engine is off. • Use compressed air to clean top surface of the deck. Avoid flooding water on top surface, engine and electrical components. • When the mulching kit is used, it is important that the mowing interval is frequent. WARNING! Clear the lawn of stones and other objects that can be thrown out by the blades. Mowing pattern 8050-819 WARNING! Never drive the rider on terrain that slopes more than 10 degrees. Mow slopes up and down, never side to side. Avoid sudden directional changes. 31