Operating Tips - Toro TimeCutter SWX 4250 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.
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.
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 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.
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, 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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