Operating On Slopes; Mowing; Mowing Recommendations - Ferris SRS Z2 Series Operator's Manual

This technique turns the rider LEFT and slightly overlaps
the row just cut, eliminating the need to back up and re-cut
missed grass.
As you become more familiar and experienced with operating
the zero-turn riding mower, you will learn more maneuvers
that will make your mowing time easier and more enjoyable.
Remember, the more you practice, the better your control
of the Zero Turn will be!

Operating on Slopes

Learn how to operate the stand-on mower on slopes and
use your body position to improve traction and control of
the mower.
Operation on slopes can be dangerous. Slopes are a major
factor related to accidents, which can result in severe injury or
death. Using the unit on a slope that is too steep where you
do not have adequate wheel traction (and control) can cause
sliding, loss of steering, control, and possible rollover. If you
feel unsure about operating the unit on a slope, don't do it. It's
not worth the risk.
Mow across slopes, NOT up and down:
• Lean your body slightly rearward and towards the uphill
side drive wheel, while keeping a firm grip on the control
levers. This body position adds more weight to the uphill
side drive wheel to maximize traction and control.
• Do NOT accelerate quickly, as this may cause the
mower's front wheels to come off the ground.
Mow up and down slopes (only if you cannot mow across
the slope):
• It is recommended to mow up and down slopes only
when you cannot mow across slopes.
• Mow up the slope and lean your body forward (towards
the control panel), while keeping a firm grip on the control
levers. This body position helps keep the front wheels on
the ground.
• Mow down the slope and lean your body rearward with
your arms out-stretched, while keeping a firm grip on the
handlebar. This body position adds more weight to the
drive wheels and improves traction, downhill braking, and
control.
• Always be very gentle operating the controls, travel at a
slower speed than normal.
• Do NOT accelerate quickly or change speed or direction
suddenly while mowing, as this may cause the mower's
front wheels to come off the ground (up slopes) and to
reduce the tendency to cause the mower to slip and slide
(down slopes).

Mowing

1. Engage the parking brake. Make sure that the PTO
switch is disengaged, the ground speed control levers are
in the NEUTRAL position, and the operator in standing of
the operator platform.
2. Start the engine. See Starting the Engine.
3. Set the cutting height.
4. Set the throttle to the 1/2 throttle position.
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Note: It is best practice to engage the PTO with the throttle
set at the minimum throttle position necessary to engage the
deck drive system without stalling the engine.
5. Engage the PTO by pulling up on the PTO switch.
6. Move the throttle to the "FAST" position and begin
mowing.
7. When finished, reduce throttle speed so that the engine
idles and push the PTO switch down to shut off the PTO.
8. Stop the engine. See Stopping the Unit.

Mowing Recommendations

Several factors can affect how well your unit cuts grass,
Following proper mowing recommendations can improve the
performance and life of your unit.
Height of Grass
Often cutting height is a matter of personal preference.
Typically, you should mow the grass when it is between three
and five inches high. The proper cutting height range for
a specific lawn will depend upon several factors, including
the type of grass, the amount of rainfall, the prevailing
temperature, and the lawn's overall condition.
Cutting the grass too short causes weak, thin grass plants,
which are easily damaged by dry periods and pests. Cutting
too short is often more damaging than allowing the grass to
be slightly higher.
Letting grass grow a bit longer—especially when it is hot and
dry—reduces heat build-up, preserves needed moisture and
protects the grass from heat damage and other problems.
However, allowing grass to grow too high can cause thin turf
and additional problems.
Cutting off too much at one time shocks the plant's growth
system and weakens the grass plants. A good rule of thumb
is the 1/3 rule: to cut no more than one third of the grass
height, and never more than 1 inch at a time.
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