Alamo SL72 - Manual (Page 105)

OPERATION
SL72 03/08 Operation Section 4-23
© 2008 Alamo Group Inc.
OPERA
T
ION
9.5 Operating the Mower
Only operate the mower from the skid steer operator’s seat with the seatbelt securely fastened.
The mower is designed to cut vegetation up to 2” in diameter. Sharp blades will produce a cleaner cut and
require less power. Travel at a speed that allows the mower sufficient time to cut through the vegetation and
maintain the mower operating speed to prevent overloading the mower and skid steer. Choose a driving
pattern that provides the maximum pass length and minimizes turning.
Avoid mowing in the reverse direction when possible. In situations where the mower must be backed to
access areas to be cut, make sure there are no persons or other foreign debris behind the mower before
mowing in reverse. When mowing in reverse, operate the skid steer and mower at a reduced ground speed to
ensure skid steer and mower control is maintained.
Stay alert and watch for trees, low hanging limbs, power lines, and other overhead obstacles and solid ground
objects while you are operating. Use care to avoid hitting these items.
Large, dense, or wet vegetation may need to be mowed in two or more passes to achieve a uniform cut. In
such conditions, raise the cutting height up to 18” on the first pass.
Then lower the mower to the desired height and mow the vegetation a second time. If possible, select a
mowing pattern that is at a 90 degree angle to the first pass to reduce streaking and provide a more even cut.
9.6 Shutting Down the Mower
To shut down the mower, first bring the skid steer to a complete stop. Then slow down the mower by reducing
the engine speed before disengaging the auxiliary hydraulics.
Park the skid steer on a level surface, place the transmission in park or neutral and apply the parking brake,
lower the attached mower to the ground, shut down the engine, remove the key, and wait for all motion to come
to a complete stop before exiting the skid steer.
Mow only in conditions where you have clear visibility in daylight or with adequate artificial
lighting. Never mow in darkness or foggy conditions where you cannot clearly see at least
100 yards in front and to the sides of the Power Unit and mower. Make sure that you can
clearly see and identify passersby, steep slopes, ditches, drop-offs, overhead obstructions,
power lines, debris and foreign objects. If you are unable to clearly see these types of
items discontinue mowing.
(SPU-27)
Never mow in the reverse direction. The Power Unit’s operator protective structure
obstructs the operator’s visibility of the unit’s path when traveling in the reverse direction.
(SPU-8)