Snapper 500Z Operater's Manual - Page 23

Operation Proper Mulching Attaching A Trailer Mulching consists of a mower deck which cuts and recuts clippings into tiny particles and which then blows them down INTO the lawn. These tiny particles decompose rapidly into by-products your lawn can use. UNDER PROPER CONDITIONS, your mulching mower will virtually eliminate noticeable clippings on the lawn surface. NOTE: When mulching under heavy cutting conditions, a rumbling sound may be present and is normal. Mulching Requires EXCELLENT Mowing 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. The maximum weight of a towed trailer should be less than 200 lbs (91kg). Secure the trailer with a appropriately sized clevis pin (A, Figure 18) and clip (B). Excessive towed loads can cause loss of traction and loss of control on slopes. Reduce towed weight when operating on slopes. The surface being driven on greatly impacts traction and stability. Wet or slippery surfaces can greatly reduce traction and the ability to stop or turn. Carefully evaluate the surface conditions before operating the unit and trailer, and never operate on slopes greater than 10°. See SLOPE OPERATION and TOWED EQUIPMENT in the safety section of this manual for additional safety information. Do not use the mower as a mulching mower during the first two or three mowings in the spring. The long grass blades, quick growth, and often wetter conditions are more suitable for broadcasting (side-discharging) or grass bagging A operation. Engine Speed & Ground Speed for Mulching r n Use full engine throttle matched with a slow ground speed so that clippings will be finely cut. Ground speed while fo tio mulching should be HALF of the speed that would be used when broadcasting (side discharging) under similar conditions. Since mulching requires more horsepower t c than broadcasting, using a slower ground speed is vitally o important for proper mulching operation. u How Much Grass to Mulch N d The best mulching action typically results from cutting only o the top 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch of grass blade. This provides r short clippings which decompose properly (much more quickly than longer clippings). The ideal cutting height will p vary with climate, time of year, and quality of your lawn. We recommend that you experiment with both the cutting height e and ground speed until you achieve the best cut. Start with R a high cutting height and using progressively lower settings B Figure 18. Trailer Weight Recommendations A. Clevis Pin B. Clip until you find a cutting height that is matched to your mowing conditions and preferences. Figure 17. Mulching Action 21