Cutting Speed; Blade Maintenance - Toro Z441 Z Master 74441 Operator's Manual

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
in certain conditions.
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.
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