Toro TimeCutter ZX480, Operator'S Manual

19

Tips for Mowing Grass

Fast Throttle Setting

For best mowing and maximum air circulation, operate the

engine at Fast. Air is required to thoroughly cut grass

clippings, so do not set the height-of-cut so low as to totally

surround the mower by uncut grass. Always try to have one

side of the mower free from uncut grass, which allows air

to be drawn into the mower.

Cutting a Lawn for the First Time

Cut grass slightly longer than normal to ensure that the

cutting height of the mower does not scalp any uneven

ground. However, the cutting height used in the past is

generally the best one to use. When cutting grass longer

than six inches tall, you may want to cut the lawn twice to

ensure an acceptable quality of cut.

Cut 1/3 of the Grass Blade

It is best to cut only about 1/3 of the grass blade. Cutting

more than that is not recommended unless grass is sparse,

or it is late fall when grass grows more slowly.

Mowing Direction

Alternate mowing direction to keep the grass standing

straight. This also helps disperse clippings which enhances

decomposition and fertilization.

Mow at Correct Intervals

Normally, mow every four days. But remember, grass

grows at different rates at different times. So to maintain

the same cutting height, which is a good practice, mow

more often in early spring. As the grass growth rate slows

in mid summer, mow less frequently. If you cannot mow

for an extended period, first mow at a high cutting height;

then mow again two days later at a lower height setting.

Cutting Speed

To improve cut quality, use a slower ground speed.

Avoid Cutting Too Low

If the cutting width of the mower is wider than the mower

you previously used, raise the cutting height to ensure that

uneven turf is not cut too short.

Long Grass

If the grass is ever allowed to grow slightly longer than

normal, or if it contains a high degree of moisture, raise the

cutting height higher than usual and cut the grass at this

setting. Then cut the grass again using the lower, normal

setting.

When Stopping

If the machine’s forward motion must be stopped while

mowing, a clump of grass clippings may drop onto your

lawn. To avoid this, move onto a previously cut area with

the blades engaged.

Keep the Underside of the Mower Clean

Clean clippings and dirt from the underside of the mower

after each use. If grass and dirt build up inside the mower,

cutting quality will eventually become unsatisfactory.

Blade Maintenance

Maintain a sharp blade throughout the cutting season

because a sharp blade cuts cleanly without tearing or

shredding the grass blades. Tearing and shredding turns

grass brown at the edges, which slows growth and increases

the chance of disease. Check the cutter blades daily for

sharpness, and for any wear or damage. File down any

nicks and sharpen the blades as necessary. If a blade is

damaged or worn, replace it immediately with a genuine

Toro replacement blade.

Safe Towing Practices

Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for

towing. Do not attach towed equipment except at the hitch

point. This product has a limited towing capacity for small

attachments up to 100 lbs; such as leaf sweepers and

spreaders. Towing of attachments should be limited to flat

ground. Never allow children or others in or on towed

equipment. On slopes, the weight of towed equipment may

cause a loss of traction and control. 

Towing on slopes is

not recommended. 

Travel slowly and allow extra distance

to stop.