Introduction
Safety Signs
Controls
Operating Machine
Operating Mower Deck
Lawn Care
Replacement Parts
Service Machine Safely
Service Interval Chart
Service Engine
Service Transmission
Service Steering And Brakes
Service 48 & 54 Inch Mower Deck
Service 60 Inch Mower Deck
Service Electrical
Service Miscellaneous
Removing 48 & 54 Inch Mower Deck
Removing 60 Inch Mower Deck
Installing 48 & 54 Inch Mower Deck
Installing 60 Inch Mower Deck
Troubleshooting
Storing Machine
Assembly
Specifications
Warranty
John Deere Service Literature
John Deere Quality Statement
CopyrightŠ Deere & Company
Lawn Care
Mowing Tips
Before mowing, be sure deck is leveled and mower wheels are in the proper position.
When you mow an area for the first time, travel SLOW and cut HIGH so you can:
ˇ Learn the best mowing pattern.
ˇ Help prevent hitting objects hidden in the grass.
Mow grass only when it is dry: Wet grass may plug mower and leave a trail of grass clumps.
Mow grass often: Short grass clippings will decay quickly.
Mow at full throttle for best performance.
Use travel speed that fits conditions:
ˇ Travel SLOW when you mow thick, tall grass.
ˇ FAST travel or sharp turns may produce stripes or uneven cut: slow down.
ˇ Travel at MODERATE speed when you mow a thin stand of grass.
Mow often enough so you cut only 1/3 of grass blade in one mowing. Cutting grass too short may kill grass and let weeds grow easily.
See your John Deere dealer for blades that will best fit your mowing conditions.
Aerate lawn to help stimulate soil organisms and root growth.
Trimming Tips
ˇ Turn to left around trees, bushes, etc.
ˇ Drive slowly. Avoid hitting trees, bushes, etc.
ˇ If ground slopes up to a tree or bush, you may have to approach the tree or bush straight-on to avoid scalping.
To Avoid Scalping
ˇ Pay attention to the way you drive: you can eliminate scalping.
ˇ If mower scalps easily, cutting height may be too low for ground conditions - especially on lawns with many small mounds and ridges.
ˇ Rear gauge wheels must be adjusted correctly.
ˇ Drive over ridges and through shallow ditches straight-on, not at an angle.
Keep blades sharp: Dull blades will tear grass; tips of grass will then turn brown.
Check lawn regularly for uneven cut. If cut is uneven:
ˇ LOOK: Mower may not be level.
ˇ Slow down before you make a turn.
Use a thatcher (available from your John Deere dealer) in late spring or summer to pull up dead grass and aerate ground.
For bagging information, see your Bagger Operator's Manual.
After Mowing
ˇ Let engine cool-to prevent fire when you store mower.
ˇ Clean top of deck, engine, and chute with compressed air to help prevent buildup and fire.
ˇ Clean under deck with water under pressure to prevent buildup and remove corrosive lawn chemicals.