Operating

Using The Blower

NOTE: If blower is not picking up grass clippings adequately, reduce machine ground speed. Generally, ground speed should be slower when using the MCS or bagger.

Starting Blower

Whenever the PTO is engaged to start the mower deck, the blower will automatically start.

Stopping Blower

Whenever the machine PTO is disengaged to stop the mower deck, the blower will automatically stop.

Unplugging Mower, Bagger, or Material Collection System

c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Do not attempt to unplug attachment with machine running. • Rotating blades are dangerous. Shut off the engine and remove the key before getting off the seat to inspect the machine and attachment. • Thrown objects can cause serious injury. Make sure all machine parts are stopped before raising hopper top or removing chutes.

Checking For Plugging While Driving

If grass builds up in front of mower discharge chute, check for plugged chute or problems with blower assembly (if equipped).

If there is a trail of clippings behind mower or clippings blow to the side, check for plugged chute, full collector bags, or problems with blower assembly.

Removing Debris From Inspection Points:

c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Do not use hands or feet to clear plugged mower deck or blower assembly. Stored energy can cause blades to rotate.

1. Park machine safely. Wait for all moving parts to stop before getting off to inspect machine.

2. Open hopper cover. Check chute outlet.

3. Remove chute from mower deck or blower assembly. Check chute inlet.

4. Check under mower deck for debris.

Using Grass Bags

c CAUTION: Avoid injury! Rotating blades can throw objects and debris. Stop engine before removing or installing discharge chute or grass catcher, or approved mulch plug or guard.

Installing and Removing Grass Bags

1. Unlatch and raise hopper top.

2. To remove, slide bags out from support frame.

3. To install, slide bags in completely on support frame so that safety labels are visible at the rear of the machine.

Filling the Bags

Check level of clippings often.

Empty bags when full to prevent plugging of chute.

Left bag normally fills first.

Right bag may not fill completely when you are cutting a thin stand of grass. Bag will fill if you slow engine to reduce air flow.

To avoid tipping, fill bags 1/2 full when operating on slopes.

Never leave grass or leaves in bags overnight or for long periods of time. Dampness from leaves or grass will cause deterioration of the bags. Also, damp leaves or grass when contained in the bags are combustible and can create a fire. For this reason, never store garbage bags of leaves or grass bagging attachment with full or partially filled bags in a garage or other enclosure.

Transporting

If the blower and rear bagger will be left on the machine during transport, follow these guidelines when transporting the unit:

• If possible, empty the cloth bags and remove them from the hopper. Full bags add extra weight which can overstress the hopper frame on rough roads. At road travel speeds, wind can cause premature wear of the cloth bags.

• Make sure the hopper lid is latched securely to the hopper frame.

• If unit will be transported over long distances or at high speeds, remove the rear bagger and chute before transport.