Operating Tips - Toro TimeCutter SS 5060 Operator's Manual

Operating Tips

Using the Fast Throttle Setting
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 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 2 speed ranges—high and low. An operator
can benefit from the lower speed setting when maneuvering
the machine in tight spaces or operating around delicate
landscapes. The low setting can also 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.
Cutting 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.
Alternating the Mowing Direction
Alternate the mowing direction to keep the grass standing
straight. This also helps disperse clippings which enhances
decomposition and fertilization.
Mowing at Correct Intervals
Normally, mow every 4 days. But, remember, grass grows at
different rates at different times. So to maintain the same
cutting height, which is a good practice, and 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 2
days later at a lower height setting.
Avoiding 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 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 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.
Keeping 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.
Maintaining the Blade(s)
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 mower blades after each use 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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