Bush Hog HDTH5 Operator's Manual page 124

PTO RPM and Ground Speed
Ground speed for mowing will depend upon the height, type, and density of vegetation to be cut. Recommended speed
for efficient mower performance is between 2 and 5 mph(3-8 kph). Operate the mower at its full rated PTO speed to
maintain blade speed for a clean cut. Refer to the tractor operator's manual or the tractor instrument panel for the en-
gine speed and gear to provide the required PTO and desired ground speed. Make sure that the mower is operating
at its full rated speed before entering the vegetation to be cut. If it becomes necessary to temporarily regulate engine
speed, increase or decrease the throttle gradually.
Ground speed is achieved by transmission gear selection and not by the engine operating speed. The operator may
be required to experiment with several gear range combinations to determine the best gear and range which provides
the most ideal performance from the mower and most efficient tractor operation. As the severity of cutting conditions
increase, the ground speed should be decreased by selecting a lower gear to maintain the proper operating PTO
speed.
OPS-R-0025
Do not exceed the rated PTO speed for the Implement. Excessive PTO speeds can cause Im-
plement driveline or blade failures resulting in serious injury or death.
Mow at the speed that you can safely operate and control the tractor and mower. The correct
mowing speed depends on terrain condition and grass type, density, and height of cut. Normal
ground speed range is from 2 to 5 mph(3-8 kph). Use slow mowing speeds when operating on
or near steep slopes, ditches, drop-offs, overhead obstructions, power lines, or when debris and
foreign objects are to be avoided.
Operating the Mower
The mower is designed to cut grass and light weeds. Travel at a speed that allows the mower sufficient time to cut
through the vegetation and maintain the PTO operating speed to prevent overloading the mower and tractor and to
produce a clean cut. Choose a driving pattern that provides the maximum pass length and minimizes turning. Re-
member, sharp blades produce cleaner cuts and use less power.
Under certain conditions, tractor tires may roll some grasses down preventing them from being cut at the same height
as the surrounding area. When this occurs, reduce the tractor ground speed while maintaining the operating speed of
the mower. A slower ground speed will permit grasses to at least partially rebound and be cut. Taking a partial cut
and/or reversing the direction of travel may also help produce a cleaner cut.
Avoid mowing in the reverse direction when possible. In situations where the mower must be
backed to access areas to be cut, make sure there are no persons or other foreign debris behind
the mower before mowing in reverse. When mowing in reverse, operate the tractor and mower
at a reduced ground speed to ensure control is maintained of the tractor and mower.
Do not mow with two machines in the same area except with Cab tractors with the windows
closed. (SGM-11)
Mow only in conditions where you have clear visibility in daylight or with adequate artificial lighting.
Never mow in darkness or foggy conditions where you cannot clearly see at least 300 feet (90
m) in front and to the sides of the tractor and mower. Make sure that you can clearly see and
identify passersby, steep slopes, ditches, drop-offs, overhead obstructions, power lines, debris
and foreign objects. If you are unable to clearly see these type of items discontinue mowing.
(SGM-1)
HDTH 5 & 6 Finish Mower 08/21
© 2021 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERATION
(SGM-07)
Operation Section 4-20
(SG-26)
OPS-R-0026_I