14 Operation
MAN0475 (9/21/2005)
If mower becomes plugged causing belt to slip for over
two seconds follow these steps:
1. Maneuver equipment into a previously cut area
and allow mower to clear accumulated material.
2. Continue running at least two minutes, allowing
pulleys to cool. Stopping the mower in contact with
a very hot pulley will bake and ruin belt.
Proper ground speed will depend upon the terrain, the
height, and type and density of material to be cut.
Normally, ground speed will range from 2 to 5 mph. Tall
dense material should be cut at a low speed; thin
medium-height material can be cut at a faster ground
speed.
Always operate tractor PTO at 540 rpm to maintain
proper blade speed and produce a clean cut.
Under certain conditions, tractor tires may roll some
grass down and prevent it from being cut at the same
height as the surrounding area. When this occurs,
reduce your ground speed, but maintain PTO at 540
rpm. The lower ground speed will permit grass to par-
tially rebound.
In general, lower cutting heights give a more even cut
and leave less tire tracks. However, it is better to cut
grass frequently rather than too short. Short grass
deteriorates rapidly in hot weather and invites weed
growth during growing seasons. Follow local recom-
mendations for the suitable cutting height in your area.
Operating Tips
Inspect and clear area of stones, branches, or
other hard objects that might be thrown, causing
injury or damage.
Extremely tall material should be cut twice. Set mower
at a higher cutting height for the first pass. Then cut at
desired height, 90 degrees to the first pass.
Remember, sharp blades produce cleaner cuts and
require less power.
Analyze area to be cut to determine the best proce-
dure. Consider height and type of grass and terrain
type: hilly, level, or rough.
Plan your mowing pattern to travel straight forward
whenever possible. Mow with uncut grass to the right.
This will distribute the clippings over the cut area.
Uneven Terrain
Do not operate or transport on steep slopes.
Do not stop, start, or change directions sud-
denly on slopes.
Use extreme care and reduce ground speed on
slopes and rough terrain.
Watch for hidden hazards on the terrain during
operation.
Pass diagonally through sharp dips and avoid sharp
drops to prevent hanging up tractor and mower.
Practice will improve your skills in maneuvering rough
terrain.
MOWER REMOVAL & STORAGE
1. Disengage tractor PTO and raise mower with the
3-point hitch.
2. Disconnect mower driveshaft from tractor PTO.
3. Collapse driveshaft as far as possible and store it
in PTO hanger bracket to prevent ground contact.
4. Before extended storage, see page 19 for cleaning
instructions.
5. Place blocks under mower side skids. Lower
mower onto blocks, disconnect mower from tractor
3-point hitch, and carefully drive tractor away from
mower.
Figure 10. Mower Storage Position
WARNING
WARNING
CM905A
