Operating Tips - Toro 74731 Operator's Manual

Operating Tips

Fast Throttle Setting
For best mowing and maximum air circulation, operate the
engine at the F position. Air is required to thoroughly cut
AST
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.
Using the Smart Speed™ Control
System
The Smart Speed™ Control-System lever, located below the
operating position, gives the operator a choice to drive the
machine at 3 speed ranges—trim, tow, and mow. An operator
can benefit from the trim speed setting when maneuvering
the machine in tight spaces or operating around delicate
landscapes. The trim setting can also be used to operate the
machine at a high throttle setting and blade speed, while still
being able to reduce the ground speed to increase the quality
of cut.
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.
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 you must stop the machine's forward motion 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
or you can disengage the mower deck while moving forward.
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.
26