Section 4: Operation
11
Vary the Throttle Setting
According to Conditions
Use a travel speed that is suitable for the condi-
tions at hand.
For example, you’ll get better trimming and
mowing results at slower walking speeds if the
grass is tall or lush.
Shorter grass or less dense growth can be cut
at faster travel speeds.
Use the Correct
Walking Speed
The majority of trimming and mowing jobs will yield the best results if the
throttle control is set at the fastest speed.
Less demanding jobs (and projects that require very precise cutting) will yield
better results if the engine speed is somewhat reduced. For example, damage
to trees and ornamentals can be avoided by reducing the engine speed, using
the lighter .130" diameter line, and by keeping a safe distance away.
Again, once you begin a particular job and get a “feel” for the conditions, you
will be able to make adjustments for the best possible results.
The trimmer/mower discharges cut
materials to the right side.
For best results, stay on the right side of
unmowed growth as you move along.
Keep the Mowed Side On the
Right While Moving Forward
When the trimmer lines wear to less
than 1/2 their original length, trimming
jobs will take far longer than necessary.
As a general guideline, install new lines
when they wear to 1/2 their original
length.
Clean under the mower deck frequently
to remove any debris buildup. Also
clean around the muffler and on top of
engine.
See the cleaning instructions in Section
5: “Maintenance.”
Clean the Unit On
a Regular Basis
Do Not Let the Trimmer Lines
Become Too Short
For the most precise cutting possible, be sure to select the
appropriate line cutting height and trimmer line size (thickness)
for the conditions at hand.
When mowing, let the cutting head rest lightly on the ground,
without lifting up or pushing down on the handlebars. This tech-
nique allows the cutting head to follow the ground contour
closely, resulting in the most even cut possible.
Also, be sure to ease into heavy growth to prevent overwhelming
the machine.
Grass and most other materials are most efficiently trimmed when dry. But the unit will do a fine
job even with damp or wet materials. When conditions are moist or damp, be sure to clean
debris off the machine regularly to keep cutting efficiency high. And watch your footing!
OPERATING TIPS & TECHNIQUES
Tips for Precision Cutting
When operating on sloping ground, use extreme caution and
common sense to avoid possible injury or property damage.
Do not mow on excessively steep slopes! Avoid slopes if
greater than 15
0
or wherever footing is unsure. If a slope is
difficult to stand on, it is probably too steep to trim or mow.
In this case, it may be wiser to establish a permanent ground
cover on this area.
Do not trim on slopes when the ground is slippery. Trim
across the face of a slope, not up and down. Slow down and
exercise caution when changing direction on slopes.
Use Extreme Caution on Slopes
Trim When Wet or Dry
