OPERATING YOUR LAWNMOWER
SLOPE OPERATION
WARNING
Do not mow a slope that has an angle of greater than 15° (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 ft. [75m] every
10 ft. [3m]). Mow across the face of a slope, and never up and down.
• Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents that can result in severe injury. Operation
on slopes requires extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it. For your safety, do not
attempt to mow slopes greater than 15 degrees.
• Mow across the face of slopes, not up and down. Exercise extreme caution when changing direction
on slopes.
• Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or bumps which can cause you to slip or trip. Tall grass
can hide obstacles. Remove all objects such as rocks, tree limbs, etc., which could be tripped over
or thrown by the blade.
• Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious personal injury. If you feel you are
losing your balance, release the switch control lever immediately.
• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments; you could lose your footing or balance.
MOWING TIPS
NOTE: A sharp blade will greatly enhance the performance of the mower, especially when cutting high
grass. Be sure to check the blade and to sharpen it at least once per year, as described in the
Maintenance section.
• Verify that the lawn is free of stones, sticks, wires, and other objects that could damage the
blades or the motor. These objects could be accidentally thrown by the mower in any direction,
and could cause serious personal injury to the operator and to others.
• In order to prevent electric shock, do not operate the mower in damp or wet conditions.
• Do not mow in circles. Travel back and forth across the lawn.
• When cutting thick grass, reduce walking speed in order to allow for a more effective cut and a
proper discharge of the clippings. For a healthy lawn, always cut off one-third or less of the total
length of the grass. The average lawn should be approximately 1-1/2 to 2" (3.8 to 5 cm) long
during cool months, and more than 2" (5 cm) long during hot months. If there is growth, the
lawn should be cut in the fall.
MULCHING TIPS
NOTE: ALWAYS INSPECT AREA WHERE MOWER IS TO BE USED AND REMOVE ALL STONES,
STICKS, WIRE, BONES AND OTHER DEBRIS WHICH MIGHT BE THROWN THE ROTATING
BLADE.
• Release switch to turn mower OFF when crossing any graveled area (stones can be thrown by
the blade).
• Set mower at highest cutting height when mowing on rough ground or in tall weeds.
• For effective mulching, do not cut wet grass, as it tends to stick to the underside of the deck
preventing proper mulching of grass clippings. New or thick grass may require a narrower cut.
The ground speed should be adjusted to the condition of the lawn. If mowing has been delayed
and the grass has been allowed to grow in excess of 4", mow twice to reduce the grass height
to 3-3/4" maximum.
• Walk at a good, steady pace. Overlap your rows. Don't let the grass get too tall. If the grass
gets too long start at the highest cutting position and work down to the desired cutting height.
WARNING
If you strike a foreign object, stop the motor and disconnect the power cord. Thoroughly inspect the
mower for any damage. Repair any damage before operating the mower. Excessive vibration of the
mower during operation is an indication of damage. Thoroughly inspect the mower and repair any
damage before operating the mower.
ENGLISH - 9