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MOWING

~ Before Mowing~ 

-Conduct Inspections.  Always conduct your mower inspections on a hard, flat surface away from the mowing area.  Open the hood and check the engine oil.  Check the hydraulic oil if accessible, remember that some hydraulic systems are sealed.  Inspect the cooling system, if equipped, to make sure there is enough coolant in the radiator.  Clean any debris off the screen and front of the radiator.  Check the condition of your air filter, replace if necessary.  Ensure that all parts, such as belts, pulleys, catchers and guards, are in proper working order and that all safety systems are working properly.  Also check the tire pressure.  Always refer to your operator's manual for step-by-step start-up procedures and daily machine inspections.

-Adjust The Cutting Height Of Your Deck.  If you are using multiple pieces of mowing equipment, make sure that they all have the same cutting height set.  Never adjust the height of cut while the blades are on, always adjust the cutting height when mower is disengaged or off. 

-Check The Fuel Level.  Check your mower's fuel level and fill if necessary so that you start off with a full tank.  If you have to refuel during the day, turn machine off and let cool for a little while.  Be careful not to spill gasoline when filling. 

-Clear Your Work Area.  Walk the mowing area and clear all hidden hazards, such as rocks, sticks and hidden debris like broken glass, bottles and miscellaneous materials.  Injuries may occur from debris that is projected into the air by the impact of the mower blades.  Projected debris can cause injuries to operators, pedestrians and property.

~ While Mowing~

-If mowing with a riding lawn mower, first lower the deck to correct mowing height.  Engage the blade at manufactures recommended engine setting.  Start by making a perimeter pass with the discharge chute or grass catcher to the inside -- that is, away from the sidewalk, curb, flower beds or whatever structure borders the turf.  This will keep the mower from hitting the outside obstacles also allowing you to make a U-turn in the grass so you do not have the chance to damage the surrounding landscape.

-Always mow in straight lines, alternating directions and changing the pattern every week, if possible.  For the best-quality cut, make sure your blades are keep sharp and mow with the engine running at full throttle.  If you are mowing high grass, use the highest cut setting for the first pass, and then make a second pass to cut the grass.  If your grass does get to high and you can cut it high and wait a few days to cut it lower that would be the healthiest for the grass.  Try to discharge the grass clippings toward the previously cut lawn areas.  Never position the side-discharge chute toward people or property.

-Pick Up Missed Debris.  If you see any debris that you overlooked in your initial walk through, shut down the mower, set the parking brake and remove the debris from the mowing area. 

-Unclogging The Deflection Chute.  Sometimes while mowing your discharge chute may become clogged.  To unclog it, turn off the mower and make sure the blades are stopped.  Clear the discharge chute with a tool or a stick.  Never clear the deck or chute with you hands, and never place you hands or feet near the cutting blades.

-Be Extra Careful On Slopes.  When mowing up and down hills is not an option with a riding mower or tractor, it is recommended that you mow side to side.  Start from the bottom and work upwards.  This will allow the operator to turn the mower upwards as he/she switches directions.  Turning the mower downwards encourages the machine to pull toward the bottom of the hill and should be avoided.

-Most Important.  Read your machines operator's manual, all machines differ in operation.  It might be just a slight difference, but it is a difference.  Make sure that your fully familiar with the operation and safety of your machine before you mow.  If you own a John Deere Mower, Click here to view the operator's manual if you can not locate your own.

~ Mower Maintenance~

-Perform Regular Mower Maintenance.  Follow the recommended mower maintenance guide in your owner's manual.  Your manual will detail schedules and tasks for basic maintenance like changing the oil, replacing the air filter and sharpening blades.  Always perform maintenance with the machine off, the engine cool, sparkplug disconnected and on a level surface.

-Have A Professional Perform Annual Maintenance.  Tune-up your mower and have major repairs done by us, Farmington Valley Equipment.  We have factory trained, professional technicians that will make sure that nothing goes over looked so that your machine will give you many years of safe operation. 

~Last Note~

-Notice that everything goes back to your owner's manual.  This is a very important tool to insure that you understand the operation of your machine and the correct maintenance to ensure a long operating life.  Remember, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call us, this is what we do and we are more than happy to help.

HAVE FUN MOWING, AND BE SAFE.