Simplicity ZT4000 Series - Manual (Page 24)

22 www.simplicitymfg.com
Mowing
Before mowing, set the cutting height as described in the
Operation section.
1. Engage the parking brake. Make sure the PTO switch is
disengaged and the ground speed control levers are in
the NEUTRAL position.
2. Start the engine (see STARTING THE ENGINE).
3. Set the throttle to FULL.
4. Engage the PTO by pulling up on the PTO switch.
5. Begin mowing. See Mowing Recommendations
section for tips on mowing patterns and lawn care.
See Troubleshooting section for information on
troubleshooting common cutting problems.
6. When finished, shut off the PTO.
7. Stop the engine (see STOPPING THE TRACTOR AND
ENGINE).
Mowing Recommendations
Several factors can affect how well your machine cuts grass,
Following proper mowing recommendations can improve
the performance and life of your machine.
Figure 15. Proper Cutting Height Figure 14. Incremental Cutting
Cut Here On
First Pass
Cut
Here On
Second
Pass
Operation
Before you store your unit for the off-season, read the
Maintenance and Storage instructions in the Safety Rules
section, then perform the following steps:
• Disengage the PTO, set the parking brake, & remove the
key.
• Perform engine maintenance and storage measures
listed in the engine owner’s manual. This includes
draining the fuel system, or adding stabilizer to the fuel
(do not store a fueled unit in an enclosed structure - see
warning).
• Battery life will be increased if it is removed, put in a
cool, dry place and fully charged about once a month.
If the battery is left in the unit, disconnect the negative
cable.
Before starting the unit after it has been stored:
• Check all fluid levels. Check all maintenance items.
• Perform all recommended checks and procedures found
in engine owner’s manual.
• Allow the engine to warm up for several minutes before
use.
Storage
WARNING
Fuel and its vapors are extremely
flammable and explosive.
Fire or explosion can cause severe burns
or death.
Never store the unit, with gasoline in the engine or fuel •
tank, in a heated shelter or in enclosed, poorly ventilated
enclosures. Gasoline fumes may reach an open flame,
spark or pilot light (such as a furnace, water heater,
clothes dryer, etc.) and cause an explosion.
Handle gasoline carefully. It is highly flammable and
•
careless use could return in serious fire damage to your
person or property.
Drain fuel into an approved container outdoors away
•
from open flame or sparks.
Height of Grass
Often cutting height is a matter of personal preference.
Typically, you should mow the grass when it is is between
three and five inches high.
The proper cutting height
range for a specific lawn will depend upon several factors,
including the type of grass, the amount of rainfall, the
prevailing temperature, and the lawn’s overall condition.
Cutting the grass too short causes weak, thin grass plants,
which are easily damaged by dry periods and pests. Cutting
too short is often more damaging than allowing the grass to
be slightly higher.
Letting grass grow a bit longer—especially when it is
hot and dry—reduces heat build-up, preserves needed
moisture and protects the grass from heat damage and other
problems. However, allowing grass to grow too high can
cause thin turf and additional problems.
Cutting off too much at one time shocks the plant’s growth
system and weakens the grass plants. A good rule of thumb
is the 1/3 rule: to cut no more than one third of the grass
height, and never more than 1 inch at a time.