Operating Tips - Toro Groundsmaster 360 Operator's Manual

Switching from Four-Wheel Steering to
Two-Wheel Steering
Press the steering-selector switch
position. If the wheels are not aligned in the forward position,
the green light flashes and the machine remains in 4-wheel
steering until the 4 tires are directed straight ahead. You
should turn the steering wheel slowly to straighten out the
wheels until the green light ceases to flash and remains on.
When the switch light is continuously green, the machine
is in 2-wheel steering.
Note: Turning the steering wheel too quickly may cause
steering misalignment.
Switching from Two-Wheel Steering to
Four-Wheel Steering
Press the steering-selector switch
position. If the front wheels are not aligned in the forward
position, the green light flashes and the machine remains in
2-wheel steering until the 4 tires are directed straight ahead.
You should turn the steering wheel slowly to straighten out
the wheels until the green light ceases to flash and remains
off. When the switch light is continuously off, the machine
is in 4-wheel steering.
Note: Turning the steering wheel too quickly may cause
steering misalignment.
Note: If the steering system is misaligned after repeated
2-wheel steering to 4-wheel steering engagements, refer to
Correcting the Steering Misalignment (page

Operating Tips

Fast Throttle Setting/Ground Speed
To maintain enough power for the machine and deck while
mowing, operate the engine at the
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.
Mowing Direction
Alternate mowing direction to avoid making ruts in the turf
over time. This also helps disperse clippings, which enhances
decomposition and fertilization.
Cutting Speed
To improve cut quality, use a slower ground speed.
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.
(Figure 27) to the forward
(Figure 27) to the rearward
44).
throttle position
FAST
Select 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 need to slow down the forward speed
and/or raise the height-of-cut to the next higher setting.
Important: If you are cutting more than 1/3 of the
grass blade, or are mowing in sparse long grass or dry
conditions, use the flat sail of the blades to reduce
air-borne chaff, debris, and strain on the deck-drive
components.
Long Grass
If you allow the grass 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.
Keep 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.
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 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
30
Blade Maintenance (page 30).