Operating Tips - Toro 74946 Operator's Manual

Operating Tips

Using the Fast Throttle Setting
For best mowing and maximum air circulation, operate
the engine at the F throttle position. Air is required to
AST
thoroughly cut grass clippings, so do not set the height of
cut so low as to totally surround the mower in uncut grass.
Always try to have 1 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 the grass slightly longer than normal to ensure that
the cutting height of the mower does not scalp any uneven
ground. However, the cutting height you have used in the
past is generally the best to use. When cutting grass longer
than 15.24 cm (6 inches) tall, you may want to cut the lawn
twice to ensure an acceptable quality of cut.
Cutting a Third of the Grass Blade
It is best to cut only about a third 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.
Alternating the Mowing Direction
Alternate the mowing direction to keep the grass standing
straight. This also helps disperse clippings, which enhances
decomposition and fertilization.
Mowing at Correct Intervals
Normally, mow every 4 days. However, grass grows at
different rates at different times. 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 2 days
later at a lower height setting.
Adjusting the Cutting Speed
To improve cut quality, use a slower ground speed in certain
conditions.
Avoiding Cutting Too Low
If the cutting width of the mower is wider than the mower
that you previously used, raise the cutting height to ensure
that uneven turf is not cut too short.
Cutting 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.
Stopping
If you must stop the forward motion of the machine 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.
Keeping 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, the
cutting quality eventually becomes unsatisfactory.
Maintaining the Blade
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.
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