Toro 31101 Operator's Manual page 12

Using the Fast Throttle Setting
and Adjusting the Ground Speed
To maintain enough power for the machine and deck
while mowing, operate the engine at the fast throttle
position and adjust your ground speed for conditions.
Decrease the ground speed as the load on the cutting
blades increases, and increase the ground speed as
the load on the blades decreases.
Alternating Mowing Direction
Alternate the mowing direction to avoid making ruts in
the turf over time. This also helps disperse clippings,
which enhances decomposition and fertilization.
Selecting the Cutting Speed
To improve cut quality, use a slower ground speed.
Selecting the Proper Height-of-Cut
Setting to Suit Conditions
Remove approximately 25 mm (1 inch) or no
more than 1/3 of the grass blade when cutting. In
exceptionally lush and dense grass, you may have to
slow down the forward speed and/or raise the height
of cut to the next higher setting.
Cutting 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.
Keeping 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.
To reduce the risk of fire hazard, keep the engine,
muffler, battery compartment, parking brake, cutting
units, and fuel storage compartment free of grass,
leaves, or excessive grease. Clean up any spilled oil
or fuel.
Use compressed air or a leaf blower to clean the belt
drive area. Install any removed guards or covers after
cleaning.
Maintaining the Blade
Maintain a sharp blade throughout the cutting season
because a sharp blade cuts cleanly without tearing or
shredding the grass blades. Tearing and shredding,
which turns grass brown at the edges, slows growth
and increases the chance of disease. Check the
blades daily for sharpness, and for any wear or
damage. Sharpen the blades as necessary. If a blade
is damaged or worn, replace it immediately with a
genuine Toro replacement blade. Refer to
12
(page ).