Total Landscape Care Digital Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/113381
equipment matters "Look for a decal on the machine or refer to the operator's manual for a list of times to check and service," says Tim Rohrbach, John Deere product support specialist. This list may include daily checks such as fluids, tire pressure and safety systems, as well as weekly checks (50 to 100 hours) of filters, lubrication of moving parts and the suspension. Annual checks could include adjusting engine parts, which should be performed by a mechanic. If the landscaper finds a part that does need to be replaced, they should keep a log of the replacement part number and when it was added to the mower. This also gives them an idea of when it will need to be replaced again. Rohrbach suggests using dedicated software to maintain and track maintenance items. 2 Check the air filter to make sure the inside of the seal and the inside of the filter are clean. Perform visual inspections Another important way to keep their mowers in proper working order is for the landscaper to do a thorough walk-around. One landscaper who has handled his fair share of mower check-ups is Joey Cuzzort, owner of Cuzzort Lawn Care in Cedartown, Georgia. This commercial cutter has been in the business for more than 20 years, and one of his mowers, a Grasshopper Model 325 (liquid-cooled gas), has more than 12,000 hours on it. His mower-maintenance checklist includes looking at the belts for wear or looseness, air pressure in tires, levelness of the mower deck, front-wheel bearing for wear, blade spindle for loose bearings and blades for sharpness. "Sharpen as necessary, making sure each blade is properly balanced after sharpening to prevent vibration damage to the mower deck," Cuzzort says. Landscapers should also look at the air filter to make sure the inside of the seal and the inside of the filter are clean, he suggests. "Even if the outside of the air filter is dirty, as long as the inside of the filter is clean, the filter is functioning properly," Cuzzort says. "If you need to clean the outside of the air filter, tap the filter in your hand to remove dirt and debris." 4 6 To ta l L a n d s cap eC are.c om TLC0313_EquipMatters2.indd 46 DAILY ROUTINE While you probably wouldn't need to change the oil after each mowing job, there are some maintenance practices you would want to perform daily to keep your mower functioning at its best. Before Use: • Inspect air filters, but resist the urge to clean the filter every day. Never use compressed air to clean the filter as it can damage the filter. • Make sure the engine coolant is at the recommended level, and clear the radiator screen of clippings and debris. • Check the oil level, and add oil as necessary. Also, check for any hydraulic, coolant or oil leaks. After Use: • Using a handheld blower, clean debris from the mower deck and engine. • Inspect the mower for visual damage; adjust and replace parts as necessary. – Grasshopper M A R C H 2 013 2/21/13 5:02 PM