Avantco Collecting Lawn Mower 1200 A21315 User manual

Collecting Lawn Mower 1200 2015 1
Operator's Manual for Attachment
Collecting Lawn Mower 1200
Product number
For Avant 220 loaders
A21315
For Avant 400 to 700 series loaders
A21316
Please read this ma nual carefully before using the equipment ,
and follow all instructions.
Keep this manual for later reference.
www.avanttecno.com

Collecting Lawn Mower 1200 2015 1

Collecting Lawn Mower 1200 2015 1
CONTENTS
1. Foreword .........................................................................................................................................................4
2. Designed purpose of use.................................................................................................................................5
3. Safety instructions for the Lawn Mower .......................................................................................................6
4. Technical specifications ..................................................................................................................................9
4.1 Safety labels and main components of the attachment ................................................................................................. 9
5. Connecting the Lawn Mower to the loader ................................................................................................11
5.1 Connecting and disconnecting the hydraulic hoses......................................................................................................12
5.2 Storage .....................................................................................................................................................................................14
6. Instructions for use .......................................................................................................................................15
6.1 Checks before use ................................................................................................................................................................15
6.2 Using the mower...................................................................................................................................................................16
6.2.1 Working on uneven ground.......................................................................................................................................17
6.3 Floating system.......................................................................................................................................................................17
6.4 Adjusting the cutting height................................................................................................................................................18
6.5 Handling of the clippings......................................................................................................................................................18
6.6 Emptying the collector box ................................................................................................................................................20
6.7 Removing a blockage ............................................................................................................................................................20
6.8 Collector unit.........................................................................................................................................................................21
7. Maintenance and service ..............................................................................................................................22
7.1 Checking hydraulic components .......................................................................................................................................22
7.2 Cleaning and lubricating the mower.................................................................................................................................23
7.3 Sharpening and replacing the cutting blades...................................................................................................................23
7.3.1 Fastening of the blades ................................................................................................................................................24
7.4 Checking and tightening the drive belt ............................................................................................................................24
7.5 Checking the timing of the blades.....................................................................................................................................25
8. Warranty terms ............................................................................................................................................26

4 (28)
1. Foreword
Avant Tecno Oy would like to thank you for your purchase of this attachment for your Avant loader. It has
been designed and manufactured on the basis of years of experience on product development and
manufacturing. By familiarising yourself with this manual and following the instructions, you ascertain your
safety and ensure the reliable operation and long service life of the equipment. Read the instructions carefully
before starting to use the equipment or performing maintenance.
The purpose of this manual is to help you to:
operate the equipment in a safe and efficient manner
observe and prevent any hazardous situations
keep the equipment intact and ensure a long service life
The following warning symbols are used throughout this manual to indicate factors that must be taken into
account to reduce the risk of personal injury or damage to property:v
WARNING:
This safety symbol refers to important safety information in this manual.
It warns of an immediate hazard that could cause serious personal
injury.
Read the warning text accompanying the symbol carefully and ensure
that other operators are also familiar with the warnings, since personal
safety is at stake.
This signal word indicates information about the correct operation and maintenance
of the equipment.
Failure to observe the instructions accompanying the symbol can lead to equipment
breakdown or other property damage.
With these instructions, even an inexperienced user can use the attachment and loader safely. The manual
includes important instructions for experienced AVANT operators as well. Ensure that all persons using the
loader have received proper guidance and familiarised themselves with the manual of the loader, each
attachment that are used, and all safety instructions before using the equipment. Using the equipment for
other purposes or use in any other way than described in this manual is prohibited. Keep this manual at hand
throughout the service life of the equipment. If you sell or transfer the equipment, be sure to hand over this
manual to the new owner. If the manual is lost or damaged, you can request a new one from your Avant
dealer or from the manufacturer. Due to continuous product development some of the details shown in this
manual may differ from your equipment. This manual contains the original instructions in English.
In addition to the safety instructions included in this manual, you must observe all occupational safety
regulations, local laws, and other regulations concerning the use of the equipment. Particularly the regulations
concerning the use of the equipment on public road areas must be observed. We reserve the right to change
the contents of the manual without notification.

5 (28)
2. Designed purpose of use
The AVANT Collecting Lawn Mower 1200 is an attachment suitable for use with AVANT multi purpose loaders
shown in Table 1. The lawn mower is suitable for residential and professional use as well. It is intended to be
used to mow lawns on level, tended areas free of rocks, tree stumps, large branches, or other similar
obstacles. The collecting lawn mower can also be used to shred and collect tree leaves and small branches,
and the mover collects them for easy composting. The lawn mower is equipped with mechanical floating
linkage system, which allows the mower to follow the ground freely, eliminating the need for the loader boom
floating.
The cutting deck has 2 blades. The collector unit has a hydraulic suction device, which moves the clippings to
the spacious collector box. The collector box can be emptied from the driver's seat by using the loader boom
to lift and tilt the mower. The collector fan can be switched off, in which case the mower acts as a mulching
mower. The mower can be also be converted to a side discharge type if needed. Converting the mower to a
side discharge model requires removing some of the collector parts and installing a side discharge chute.
The Collecting Lawn Mower 1200 is also available as a version without the clippings collector. Either a side
cover, side discharge chute, mulching kit, or collector unit must be installed to the the mower. The use of the
mower without any side guard in place is dangerous to both the operator and any person nearby, and
therefore it is strictly prohibited. The lawn mower is not intended for mowing long hay shrub or equivalent taller
vegetation. The lawn mower cannot be used in a hung position; it is meant to run on its own
wheels<MowerType>. For mowing long hay, we recommend the AVANT Flail Mowers.
The attachment has been designed to require as little maintenance as possible. The operator can perform
regular maintenance tasks. All repair work can’t be performed by the operator, and demanding repair and
maintenance operations are to be left for professional maintenance. All maintenance work must be done using
proper safety equipment. Spare parts must be identical with original specifications, which can be ensured by
using only original spare parts. A separate spare parts catalog may be available, consult your Avant dealer.
Familiarise yourself with the manual's instructions regarding service and maintenance. Please contact your
AVANT retailer if you have additional questions about the operation or maintenance of the equipment, or if
you require spare parts or maintenance services.
Table 1 - Collecting Lawn Mower 1200 - Compatibility with Avant loaders
Avant
216
218
220
313S
320S
320S+
419
420
520
R20
525LPG
R28
528
630
R35
635
640
745
750
760
A21315
-

-
-
-
-
-
A21316
-
-
-




Normally the width of the mower should be equal to or greater than the width of the loader. For compatibility
with a model not shown in table, contact your Avant retailer.

6 (28)
3. Safety instructions for the Lawn Mower
Please bear in mind that safety is the result of several factors. The loader-attachment combination is highly
powerful and improper or careless use or maintenance may cause serious personal injury or property
damage. Due to this, all operators must carefully familiarise themselves about correct use and the operator's
manuals of both the loader and the attachment before starting operation. Do not use the attachment if you
have not completely familiarised yourself with its operation and the related hazards.
Misuse, careless use, or using an attachment that is in poor condition, may cause
risk of serious injuries. Familiarise yourself with the controls of the loader, correct
coupling procedure, and the correct way to operate the attachment at a safe area.
Study especially how to stop the equipment in a safe manner. Read all safety
precautions carefully.
Read all safety instructions carefully before handling the attachment
When attaching an attachment to the loader, ensure that the locking pins of the
loader's quick attach plate are in the lower position and that they have locked
the attachment to the loader. Never lift or move an unlocked attachment.
The Collecting Lawn Mower 1200 is designed to be used by one operator at a time.
Do not let others near the danger area of the equipment when it is in use.
Never leave the driver’s seat when the mower is running or if the auxiliary hydraulics
control of the loader is locked on. Always keep a safety distance of at least two
metres between persons and a mower that may start or move. Stop the mower
following the safe stopping procedure and lower the mower firmly on the ground
before leaving the driver’s seat.
Run the mower only when it is supported by all of its four wheels. Running the
mower in any other position may expose the blades, making contact with them
possible, and will also cause a hazard of flying debris. Make sure that the safety
valve cuts off the hydraulic oil supply to blades as intended, refer to instructions in
this manual.
Do not leave the driver’s seat when the loader boom is lifted. Going under a raised
attachment or loader boom is dangerous. Always remember that the boom may
lower due to loss of stability, mechanical fault, or if another person operates the
controls of the loader. Follow safe stopping procedure before leaving the driver's
seat.
Be sure not to tilt the lawn mower too far up, since this will make it tip over towards
the loader boom due to the movement made possible by the floating system
linkage.
Secure the mower against unintended movements when unlocking it from the
loader. Unlock only on a level surface, and use blocks of wood to prevent the
mower from moving, for example.
Make sure that the mower is properly supported before performing any inspections,
maintenance, or adjustments. If access to blades is necessary, secure the mower
with suitable lifting equipment, or lower it on firm blocks of wood, for example.
Always transport the mower as low and as close to the machine as possible to keep
the centre of gravity low. On slippery surfaces drive slowly and deliberately. Operate
the controls of the loader slowly and calmly especially on inclined terrain.

7 (28)
Never use the mower if all covers, blade guards, or other safety related parts are not
intact and securely in place. Either the side discharge guard or mulching kit must
always be installed.
Check the blades and clean the mowing deck regularly. Read the instructions about
maintenance and service and use only original blades.
Shut down the loader and place the attachment to a safe position as shown in Safe
stopping procedure before any cleaning, maintenance, or adjustments.
Pay attention to the surroundings and any other persons and machines moving in the
vicinity. Pay attention to the contours of the terrain and other hazards, such as
branches and trees that can reach to the driver's area, loose rocks, and slippery
surfaces.
Make sure to use only an attachment that is in good condition. Do not modify the
attachment in any way that could affect its safety.
Use the attachment only for its intended purpose. Other use may create unnecessary
safety risks, and the equipment may get damaged.
Make sure that the loader is equipped with necessary safety components, and that
they are in working condition. Seat belt must be used. If there are specific hazards
related to the operating area, use appropriate safety equipment.
Also read the safety instructions and correct use of the loader from the operator's
manual of the loader.
Improper or careless use of the attachment may cause serious risks. Familiarise yourself
with the controls of the loader in a safe area. Pay particular attention to the safe stopping
of the attachment and the loader; follow the safe stopping procedure shown in this
manual.
Beware of the sharp blades and risk of crushing especially during maintenance or when
removing blockages. Always stop the attachment by following the safe stopping
procedure. Note that the loader boom moves down and may be tilted even if the engine
has been stopped. Never go under a raised boom or any component of the attachment.
Keep away from the moving linkage.
Always keep a safety distance of at least two metres to other persons. Note that the
mower may throw stones, gravel, or other objects found in the area at high speed. Do not
allow others to get near a running mower.

8 (28)
Remember to wear proper protective clothing:
The noise level at the driver's seat may exceed 85 dB(A). Wear hearing protection
while working with the loader.
Wear protective gloves.
Wear safety boots whenever working with the loader.
Wear safety glasses when handling hydraulic components.
Safe stopping of the attachment, before going near the attachment:
Always stop the attachment following safe stopping procedure before leaving the
driver's seat. Safe stopping procedure prevents all unintentional movements of the
attachment. Note that the loader boom can move down even if the engine of the
loader is turned off. Safe stopping procedure:
Lower the boom and the attachment on the ground.
Shut down the loader engine and lock the parking brake.
Release residual pressure from the hydraulic system; move all hydraulic control
levers to their extreme positions a couple of times.
Prevent starting of the machine, remove ignition key.
Make sure all guards are in place
Never run the mower if all guards are not in place. The Collecting Lawn Mower 1200 is
intended to be used with the full collector unit in place, or with the side discharge chute
fitted in place of the collector nozzle, or with the full mulching kit. Exposed blades can
throw material at very high speed, creating serious danger to the operator and any
person also at a distance of up to 30 m from the mower.

9 (28)
4. Technical specifications
Table 2 –Collecting Lawn Mower 1200- Technical specifications
Product numbers
A21315
A21316
Working width:
1 200 mm
Cutting height:
25-100 mm
Drive system:
Hydraulic, direct/belt drive
Blades:
2 pcs, 615 mm, A33205
Collector unit:
210 l
Clippings handling:
Collecting
Mulching
Side discharge*
Support wheel air pressure:
1,5 –2 bar
Recommended hydraulic flow:
28 l/min
28 l/min
Maximum input of hydraulic energy:
20 MPa (200 bar),
33 l/min
20 MPa (200 bar),
33 l/min
Compatible Avant loaders:
See Table 1
*Side discharge chute included as standard
Choose a mower that is compatible with the loader. Do not exceed the maximum input of
hydraulic energy or the operating pressure.
4.1 Safety labels and main components of the attachment
Listed below are the labels and markings, which must be visible on the equipment. Replace the warning
labels, if they have become unclear or if they have detached completely. New labels are available via your
retailer or contact information provided on the cover.
The warning labels contain important safety information and they help to identify and
remember the hazards related to the equipment. Replace damaged or missing
warning labels with new ones.
A46771
A46772
A46798
A46802
A46799*

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Table 3 –Decal locations and warning messages
Decal
Explanation
Attachment identification plate
1
A46771
Read instructions before use.
2
A46772
Crushing hazard - Do not go under a
raised attachment; stay away from raised
equipment.
3
A46798
Risk of getting drawn into and crushed
by belt drive components; never operate
without all covers in place.
4
A46802
Beware of sharp blades –never reach to
the rotating components and do not use
the equipment without all covers in
place.
5
A46799
Beware of thrown objects; keep a safe
distance from the equipment (2 m).
*On the side discharge chute, if fitted.
Table 4 –Main components of lawn mower
A
Quick attach plate and floating linkage
F
Protective cover
B
Multiconnector (or conventional quick
couplings)
G
Collector nozzle
C
Multiconnector holder bracket
H
Collector tubes
D
Collector box
I
Collector fan
E
Collector box emptying hatch
J
Collector fan shut off valve

11 (28)
5. Connecting the Lawn Mower to the loader
Attaching the attachment to the loader is quick and easy, but it must be done carefully. The attachment is
mounted to the loader boom by using the quick attach plate on the loader boom and the counterpart on the
attachment.
If the attachment is not locked to the loader, it may detach from the loader and cause a hazardous situation.
The loader must not be driven and the boom must never be lifted when the attachment has not been locked.
To prevent hazardous situations, always follow the coupling procedure shown below. Also remember the
safety instructions shown in Chapter 3. The attachment is mounted to the loader as follows:
Make sure that an unlocked attachment will not move or fall over. Do not stay in the
are between the attachment and the loader. Mount the attachment only on level
surface.
Never move or lift an attachment that has not been locked.
300-700 series
loaders:
200 series loaders:
Step 1:
Lift the quick attach plate locking pins up and turn
them backwards into the slot so that they are
locked in the upper position.
If your loader is equipped with a hydraulic
attachment locking system, see additional
instructions about the use of the locking system
from the relevant manuals.
Ensure that the hydraulic hoses (and the electric
harness, if applicable) are not in the way during
installation.
Step 2:
Turn the quick attach plate hydraulically to an
obliquely forward position.
Drive the loader onto the attachment. If your
loader is equipped with a telescopic boom, you
can utilise this.
Align the upper pins of the loader’s quick coupling
plate so that they are under the corresponding
brackets of the attachment.

12 (28)
Step 3:
Lift the boom slightly –pull the boom control lever
backward to raise the attachment off the ground.
Turn the boom control lever left to turn the bottom
section of the quick attach plate onto the
attachment.
Lock the locking pins manually or lock the
hydraulic locking.
Always check the locking of pins.
An attachment that has not been
completely locked to the loader
may fall on the boom or towards
the operator, or fall under the
loader during driving, causing
loss of control of the loader.
Never move or lift an attachment
that has not been locked.
300-700 series
loaders
200 series loaders
Excessive tilting or lifting of an unlocked attachment increases the risk of tipping the
attachment over. Do not use the automatic locking of the locking pins when the
attachment is lifted more than one metre from the ground. If the locking pins do not
return to the normal position when tilting, do not tilt or raise the attachment any
more. Lower the attachment on the ground and secure the locking manually.
5.1 Connecting and disconnecting the hydraulic hoses
On 400-700 series loaders hydraulic hoses are connected using the multi connector system. If you have an
Avant 300-700 series loader with the conventional quick couplers and wish to change to the multi connector
system, contact your Avant dealer or service point for instructions or installation services.
Never connect or disconnect quick couplings or other hydraulic components while the
control lever of the auxiliary hydraulics control lever is locked on or if the system is
pressurized. Connecting or disconnecting the hydraulic couplings while the system is
pressurized may lead to unintended movements of the attachment, or ejection of
high-pressure fluid, which can cause serious injuries or burns. Follow safe stopping
procedure before disconnecting hydraulics.
Keep all fittings as clean as possible; use the protective caps on both the attachment and
the loader. Dirt, ice, etc. may make using the fittings significantly more difficult. Never
leave the hoses hanging on the ground; place the couplings onto the holder on the
attachment.

13 (28)
Connecting the multi connector system:
1. Align the pins of the attachment connector with corresponding
holes of the loader connector. The multi connector will not
connect if the attachment connector is upside down.
2. Connect and lock the multi connector by turning the lever
towards the loader.
The lever should move easily all the way to its locking position. If the lever does not slide smoothly, check the
alignment and position of the connector and clean the connectors. Also shut down the loader and release the
residual hydraulic pressure.
To disconnect the multi connector system,
1. Switch off the auxiliary hydraulics of the loader.
2. While pushing unlock button, turn the lever to disconnect the
connector.
Conventional quick couplings
(alternative couplings for some loader models):
Before connecting or disconnecting the standard quick couplings, the
residual pressure must be released as shown below. The conventional
quick couplings will not connect, if there is pressure in the hydraulic
system.
Make sure that all three quick coupling fittings are properly connected, otherwise the
hydraulic motor of the attachment may get damaged.
To connect and disconnect the standard couplings, move the collar at the end of the female fitting. The hoses
should be connected so that the fitting equipped with a coloured cap is connected to the corresponding fitting
of the loader. Note that the protective caps on the loader and the attachment can be fastened to each other
during operation to reduce the accumulation of dirt. When disconnecting the standard quick couplings a small
amount of oil may drip from the couplings. Wear protective gloves and have some cloth at hand to keep the
equipment clean.
Hydraulic couplings in 200 series loaders:
In a 200-series machine, the hose can be connected by pushing the
fitting in the counterpart. When connecting and disconnecting the 200
series hydraulic quick couplings, note the locking system of the fittings.
There is a small groove in the collar of all female fittings, and a small
ball near the collar. When connecting or disconnecting, the groove and
the ball must be aligned.
The locking prevents the female and male fittings from being
disconnected from each other by accident when the attachment
moves. The collar may also turn accidentally to the locking position,
making it impossible to connect or disconnect the couplings.

14 (28)
Disconnecting hydraulic hoses:
Before disconnecting the fittings, lower the attachment to safe position on solid and level surface. Turn the
control lever of the auxiliary hydraulics to its neutral position.
When uncoupling the attachment, always disconnect the hydraulic couplings before
unlocking the quick attach plate, to prevent hose damage and any oil spills. Reinstall the
protective caps on the fittings to prevent impurities from entering the hydraulic system.
Releasing residual hydraulic pressure:
In case residual pressure is left in the hydraulic system of the attachment, it is often possible to disconnect the
hydraulic couplings, but it may be difficult to connect them the next time. If the fittings will not connect, the
residual pressure must be released by turning the auxiliary hydraulics control lever of the loader, when the
engine is turned off. To make sure that there will not be residual pressure in the hydraulic system of the
attachment, shut down the loader engine and move the auxiliary hydraulics control lever of the loader back
and forth before disconnecting the couplings.
5.2 Storage
Uncouple and store the attachment on level ground, but avoid leaving the attachment laying directly on
against the ground. Place it on blocks of wood or on a pallet, for example. The best way to store the
attachment is a place where it is protected from direct sunlight, rain, and extreme temperatures. Make sure
that the attachment is secured against all movements during storage, and never climb on the attachment.
Make sure the attachment is secured against any movement during storage. If
necessary, use, for example, blocks of wood under the supports to ensure adequate
stability.
Before winter storage, carefully clean the cutting deck and the mower components, removing all remaining
clippings. Touch up the paint where needed and grease the lubrication points to prevent rust damage.

15 (28)
6. Instructions for use
Check the attachment and the operating environment once more before starting to work, and that all obstacles
have been removed from the operating area. Quick inspection of the equipment and the operating area before
use are parts of ensuring safety and the best performance of the equipment.
6.1 Checks before use
Before using the mower, check that it is intact and that all protective covers are in place.
Before each use, check the operation of the mower and ensure that the blades can rotate
freely. Check that there is no string or other foreign material coiled around the blades,
and that the floating linkage can move as intended.
Remove or mark visibly all obstacles, such as trash, large tree branches or stones, from the working
area before operation. Check the area for possible hidden ditches, manholes, or other dangerous
areas. Remember that tall grass can hide obstacles.
Set and lock all four wheels of the mower to same height.
Check that the collector box is empty, the collector box door firmly shut, and that the collector tubes
and fan are not blocked or damaged.
Check the position of the collector control lever; make sure that is either full open or closed position.
Ensure that bystanders are at a safe distance when operating the equipment. Do not let anyone to
enter danger area of the boom or to stay directly in front of the loader. Also make sure that it is safe to
reverse with the loader. Never assume that bystanders will remain where you last saw them;
especially children are often attracted to the moving equipment.
Check the general condition of the attachment and the loader, and check for possible hydraulic oil
leaks. The attachment must not be used, if there is a fault in the hydraulic system of the loader or the
attachment. Refer to Chapter 7 for maintenance instructions.
Operate the attachment and the controls of the loader only when seated on the driver’s seat. Ensure
that the loader and the attachment are used in a safe manner and as intended. Do not allow children
to operate the equipment.
Never operate the loader or attachments while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, medication that
may impair judgement or cause drowsiness, or if not otherwise medically fit to operate the equipment.
Remember correct working methods and avoid leaving the driver’s seat unnecessarily.
Regularly clean the loader oil cooler core; refer to the operator's manual of the loader
for more instructions. Overheating oil decreases the power and affects the service life of
the hydraulic components of both the attachment and the loader.

16 (28)
6.2 Using the mower
To start the lawn mower, turn the auxiliary hydraulics lever of the loader to its locked position. The mower can
be stopped by releasing the lever. If the hydraulic hoses are connected incorrectly when using the
conventional quick couplings, the lawn mower will not start running. Change the position of the hoses if
necessary.
It is important to set the floating system as instructed on the following page. Otherwise
the blades may not turn, or the mower will not follow the ground properly.
Adjust engine RPM so that the loader's auxiliary hydraulic flow is within the specified range for the
mower. Too little flow will not rotate the blades fast enough for good mowing results. However, too
high setting will result in excess vibration and noise, and the mower may get damaged. Generally,
only the 1-pump setting should be used (on applicable loaders).
Adjust drive speed according to cutting height, grass type, and other conditions to ensure clean cut.
the blades to rotate fast enough. Monitor the loading and rotating speed of the mower by listening to
changes in its noise.
Avoid cutting wet grass. Wet or dense grass can build up under the deck, gradually decreasing mower
performance.
Keep the blades in good condition, and keep the mower clean. Sharp blades will increase efficiency
and improve the quality of cut.
Avoid cutting too much at one pass. Generally, no more than one third of the length of the grass
should be cut at once. Tall grass may require incremental cutting with gradually lower cutting height.
Mowing in reverse direction is not recommended as the loader wheels compact the grass just before
cutting while reversing.
The mower can throw stones, dirt, or other material at high velocity, also in mulching or
collecting configurations. Keep a safe distance to other persons and stop the mower
when there are stones or other objects on the ground. Never direct the side discharge
chute (if fitted) in the direction of people, animals, buildings, vehicles, or fragile objects.
Always look in the direction the loader is moving. Before reversing, always ensure that
bystanders, especially children, are at a safe distance to avoid back-over accidents.
Operating a powerful mower requires the full attention of the operator. Do not perform
distractive actions while mowing, such as using mobile devices.
Stop the mower immediately if it makes abnormal noise, vibrates, or if the blades are
blocked. Find out the cause before continuing use.

17 (28)
6.2.1 Working on uneven ground
Extra caution is needed when using the equipment on inclined terrains and slopes. Drive slowly especially on
inclined, uneven, or slippery surfaces, and avoid sudden changes in speed or direction. Operate the controls
of the loader with careful and smooth movements. Watch out for ditches, holes on the ground, and other
obstacles, as hitting an obstacle may cause the loader to tip over.
Maximum lifting capacity can not be achieved on inclined terrain. On horizontally tilted terrain the load must
not be lifted high. The loader frame articulation should be kept straight when lifting heavy loads; turning the
load during lifting operation will affect the stability of the loader and may lead to overturning of the machine.
Mow slopes by driving straight up and down, not across. Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. Exercise
extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.
If the tyres lose traction, stop the mower blades and proceed slowly straight down the slope. Do not mow near
drop-offs, ditches or embankments. The loader could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff,
ditch, or if an edge caves in.
6.3 Floating system
The mower is equipped with a mechanical floating system, which enables efficient mowing on uneven terrains.
Floating refers to a linkage that allows the mower to follow the contours of the lawn without moving the loader
boom.
Floating is adjusted by using the controls of the loader boom
from the driver's seat, when ready to begin mowing.
To set the mower linkage to correct initial position:
Position the loader boom and its quick coupling plate to
about in the middle of the extreme positions of the floating
linkage.
The middle position in the adjacent figure indicates the
correct initial setting.
The operation of floating is greatly affected by its setting. If the
floating has been set too high, the mower is easily left hanging in
the air. When it is too low, the loader's front wheels are easily
raised off the ground.
When setting the mower floating linkage to correct operating position, avoid pressing the
mower hard against the ground with the loader boom to avoid damaging the mower.
Operate both the lift and tilt movements of the loader boom carefully.

18 (28)
.
6.4 Adjusting the cutting height
The cutting height can be adjusted by using the plastic sleeves on the vertical axles of the bearing wheels.
The mower does not need to be disconnected from the loader while adjusting the height. To adjust the height:
1. Lift the mower slightly off the ground with the loader and shut
down the engine.
2. Remove the cotter pin from the vertical axle of the bearing wheel.
Pull the wheel off its holder.
3. Move some plastic sleeves from above the bracket to below it or
vice versa, depending on whether you wish to raise or lower the
mower.
4. Push the axle back in through the bracket and reinstall the cotter
pin.
5. Repeat steps 2–4 for each wheel. Ensure that all wheels are
adjusted to the same height.
There are two thicknesses of plastic sleeves (10 &
20 mm) for more accurate adjustment of the cutting
height. Adjust all four wheels to the same height.
6.5 Handling of the clippings
The Collecting Lawn Mower 1200 can be set to other operating modes, if the collecting of the clippings is not
needed, or if the lawn is too high or thick for good collecting results.
The collecting mode requires the most power from the loader and in some cases other settings may be better
suited for your use. Alternative modes are often practical especially in large areas, since they enable higher
mowing speed and mowing of slightly longer grass.
Operating mode
How to use
Collecting
Standard setting
Mulching*
Collector turned off
Side discharge
Side discharge chute must be installed and hydraulic hoses of the collector fan
must be disconnected and plugged.
If the side discharge mode is needed, a side discharge chute must be fitted, and the
collector nozzle, fan and tubes must be removed from the mower, and the hydraulic
hoses of the collector fan must be blocked with plugs.
Removing the collecting unit and related components completely must be done by a
qualified professional. If the mower needs to be converted to a normal, non-collecting
mower, contact Avant service.

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Collecting (standard configuration):
The collecting mode is on whenever the collecting unit is
fitted and the collector fan control lever is set towards
the on-position, as shown in adjacent figure.
Also, see chapter Collector Unit for more information.
Mulching (collector disabled)
Mulching allows to leave the shredded clippings on the
ground when the lawn is mown often enough. The
mulching mode works the best with dry grass and when
not too much grass is cut at once.
The quick setting for the mulching mode is practical for
occasional use, when the collector is not needed.
To set the mower to mulching mode, turn the control
lever completely to the off position.
Side discharge (configurable):
If necessary, the lawn mower can be fitted with side
discharge chute. Side discharge requires less power than
mulching mode, so it is often practical in large areas, as it
makes it possible to mow slightly longer grass and at
higher travel speed.
To use the side discharge, the side discharge chute shown
in adjacent figure must be used.
Do not use the lawn mower unless either the side discharge chute or the mulching kit
has been securely fitted. Make sure all fastening bolts are tightened securely. Ensure
that the lawn mower is properly supported during the installation procedures, follow safe
stopping procedure.
Using the Collecting Lawn Mower 1200 in side discharge mode makes it necessary to fit
the side discharge chute and to remove the collector blower from the mower. The hoses
of the blower must be blocked. Side discharge should be installed only by individuals with
experience in hydraulic assemblies.

20 (28)
.
6.6 Emptying the collector box
Monitor the filling of the collector box while operating the mower, and when it is about to fill, stop the mower to
prevent blocking of the collector fan. Drive to the emptying site and open the box door.
The collector box is emptied through
the door on the front side of the box.
Open the box door by pulling from the
lower edge.
To empty the collector, lift the mower and tilt it carefully forward. The clippings are often packed into a
compact package during mowing, and the box is easy to empty in dry conditions. If any clippings are left in the
mower, lower the mower, shut down the loader engine and manually remove any clippings left in the collector
box. Do not drive the loader with the door open or shake the mower rapidly.
Do not reach into the collector box of a raised mower.The mower may move suddenly
due to the floating mechanism. Lower the mower on the ground, follow safe stopping
procedure.
To help keeping the lawn mower clean, empty the collector box as soon as possible after
use.
6.7 Removing a blockage
It is unlikely that the cutting deck gets blocked in normal operation. However, when when mowing wet grass or
driving at too high speed, the side discharge chute may get blocked. If blocking occurs, also check the cutting
deck and clean if necessary.
Always stop the loader by following the safe stopping procedure before going near the
mower. Never reach to the cutting deck if the blades may start rotating or if the mower
can move.
To make sure that the blades will not rotate, disconnect the multiconnector (or hydraulic
quick couplings) before reaching to the mower.