Operating Tips - Toro 74390 Operator's Manual

3
1
2
Figure 26
1. Flange nut (5/16 inch)
2. Baffle assembly
7. Install the cutoff baffle (supplied with the mower) at
the side-discharge opening on the mower deck (Figure
27).
Figure 27
1. Cutoff baffle
8. For optimum performance in side discharge mode,
install the side discharge blades (Toro part no.
110-6568-03) as described in the Installing the Blades
(page 37) section.
9. Install the mower as described in the Installing the
Mower (page 40) section.
1
4 G018012
3. Carriage bolt (5/16 x 3/4
inch)
4. Welded post
G01801 1
1

Operating Tips

Fast Throttle Setting
For best mowing and maximum air circulation, operate the
engine at the Fast 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
System
The Smart Speed TM Control System lever, located below the
operating position, gives the operator a choice to drive the
machine at two 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 be used to operate the
machine at a high throttle setting and blade speed while still
being able to reduce ground speed to increase 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.
Cut 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.
Mowing Direction
Alternate mowing direction to keep the grass standing
straight. This also helps disperse clippings which enhances
decomposition and fertilization.
Mow at Correct Intervals
Normally, mow every four days. But remember, grass grows
at different rates at different times. So to maintain the same
cutting height, which is a good practice, 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
two days later at a lower height setting.
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.
23
TM Control