OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER
MOWING THE LAWN
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, the lawn mower, 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 shocks, do not operate the mower in damp or wet conditions.
• Always start from the point that is closest to the power source where the extension cord is
connected.
• Never mow in circles. Travel back and forth across the lawn, starting from the point that is
closest to the outlet and moving away from the outlet so that the cord lies behind the mower,
in the cut portion of the lawn, and out of the way.
• Do not allow the extension cord to wrap around trees, shrubs, or other obstacles. When
picking up the extension cord, wind the cord in a series of equal loops in order to prevent it
from tangling.
• When cutting heavy 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.
MULCHING TIPS
NOTE: INSPECT THE AREA WHERE THE MOWER IS TO BE USED, AND REMOVE ALL STONES,
STICKS, WIRE, BONES, AND OTHER DEBRIS THAT MIGHT BE THROWN BY THE ROTATING BLADE.
• Release the switch to turn the mower OFF when crossing any graveled area (stones can be
thrown by the blade).
• Set mower to the highest cutting height when mowing on uneven ground or in tall weeds.
• For effective mulching, do not cut wet grass, because 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 longer than 4" (10 cm), mow the
lawn twice in order to reduce the grass height to a maximum of 3 1/4" (8.3 cm).
• Walk at a steady pace. Overlap the cutting rows. Do not 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.
W A R N I N G
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.
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