Snapper 400Z Operater's Manual - Page 21

Operation Mowing 1. Engage the parking brake. Make sure the PTO switch is disengaged, the ground speed control levers are locked in the NEUTRAL position and the operator is on the seat. 2. Start the engine (see Starting The Engine). 3. Set the mower cutting height (see Mowing Height Adjustment). 4. Set the throttle to FULL. 5. Engage the PTO by pulling up on the PTO switch. 6. Begin mowing. See Mowing Recommendations for tips on mowing patterns, lawn care, and trouble shooting information. 7. When finished, shut off the PTO by pushing the PTO switch down completely.. Figure 15. Proper Cutting Height 8. Stop the engine (see Stopping The Rider and Engine). Tall Grass Requires Incremental Cutting Mowing Recommendations For extremely tall grass, set the cutting height at maximum for the first pass, and then reset it to the desired height and Several factors can affect how well your machine cuts grass, mow a second or third time. Following proper mowing recommendations can improve the performance and life of your machine. r n Height of Grass fo tio 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 t range for a specific lawn will depend upon several factors, c including the type of grass, the amount of rainfall, the o u prevailing temperature, and the lawn's overall condition. Cutting the grass too short causes weak, thin grass plants, N d which are easily damaged by dry periods and pests. Cutting o too short is often more damaging than allowing the grass to r be slightly higher. Letting grass grow a bit longer-especially when it is hot p and dry-reduces heat build-up, preserves needed moisture and protects the grass from heat damage and other e problems. However, allowing grass to grow too high can R cause thin turf and additional problems. Don't cover the grass surface with a heavy layer of clippings. Consider using a grass collection system and starting a compost pile. Cut Here On First Pass Cut Here On Second Pass Figure 16. Incremental Cutting 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). 19