Ground Speed; Blade Maintenance - Toro 71197 Operator's Manual

Operation

Ground Speed

To improve cut quality, use slower ground speed. For
best operation on average lawns, operate engine at
full throttle while controlling ground speed with
transmission. Tractor should be operated at 2 to 3.5
MPH (3.2 to 5.6 km/hr) while mowing grass. Uneven
cutting is often a result of excessive ground speed. To
correct, use low range with the high-low lever, or
reduce ground speed in high range.
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 uneven turf is not cut too short. Average
lawns are usually cut at a height between 2 and 3
inches (5–7.6 cm).
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 the machine's forward motion must be stopped
while mowing, a clump of grass clippings may drop
onto your lawn. To avoid this:
1. With the blade(s) "ENGAGED," move onto a
previously cut area.
2. To disperse the clippings evenly, raise the mower
while driving forward with the blade(s)
"ENGAGED."
Keep the Underside of the Mower Clean
Use the washout port to 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.
18

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. Every 30 days,
check the cutter blade(s) for sharpness and file down
any nicks.