Operating Tips - Toro 74450TE Z400 Z Master Operator's Manual

WARNING
Loading a unit onto a trailer or truck increases the
possibility of backward tip-over and could cause
serious injury or death.
• Use extreme caution when operating a unit on
a ramp.
• Use only a single, full width ramp; Do Not use
individual ramps for each side of the unit.
• If individual ramps must be used, use enough
ramps to create an unbroken ramp surface
wider than the unit.
• Do not exceed a 15 degree angle between ramp
and ground or between ramp and trailer or
truck.
• Avoid sudden acceleration while driving unit up
a ramp to avoid tipping backward.
• Avoid sudden deceleration while backing unit
down a ramp to avoid tipping backward.
Figure 30
1. Trailer
2. Full width ramp

Operating Tips

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
3. Not greater than
15 degrees
4. Full width ramp—side view
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 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.
Cutting Speed
To improve cut quality, use a slower ground speed in
certain conditions.
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.
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.
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