Operating Tips - Toro 74412 Operator's Manual

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 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.
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, move onto a
previously cut area with the blades engaged.
Keep 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.
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.
Check the cutter blades daily 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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