Operating Tips - Toro Z Master Commercial 3000 Series Operator's Manual

Operating Tips

Maximize Cutting Efficiency
For best mowing and maximum air circulation, operate
the engine at the fast throttle position. Air is required
to 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 the
cutting height of the mower does not scalp any uneven
ground. However, the cutting height used in the past
is generally the best to use. When cutting grass
longer than 15 cm (6 inches) tall, you may want to cut
the lawn twice to ensure an acceptable quality of cut.
Cut a Third 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.
Alternate the Mowing Direction
Alternate the mowing direction to keep the grass
standing straight. This also helps disperse clippings,
which enhances decomposition and fertilization.
Mow at the Correct Intervals
Grass grows at different rates at different times. So
to maintain the same cutting height, mow more often
in early spring. As the grass growth rate slows in
midsummer, 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.
Choose the Best 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.
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 the Machine
If you must stop the forward motion of the machine
while mowing, a clump of grass clippings may drop
onto the 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, 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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