Walk Behind blade speed increase.

[pzorrill]

Is there a way to speed up blade speed on Toro walk behinds for a better cut?

I'm wasting too much time picking up large clippings even with a mulching blade. Help!!!

Can't afford a Dixie Chopper yet so that option's out.

[locutus]

yes there is a way by adjusting the high speed idle . dont mean to burst your bubble, but i wouldnt do this myself and i doubt a toro dealer would take the machine out of manufaturers specs.

[pzorrill]

Thanks, I figured raising engine speed is an option but like you, I don't think I want to go that route. I wonder if I can find a smaller pulley and change the belt size. Any thoughts?

[bob]

I'd re-think this idea if I were you. What if something happens, like the blade breaks off and hits someone or something. The manufacture has the blade speed set for a reason- OSHA.

[locutus]

again this would take the machine out of manufacturers specs by altering its original setup a. plus by running a smaller pulley you would gain blade speed but at the expense of torque. it all sounds kind of risky to me. not to be a smart--- but have you considered buying a mower with higher blade speed?

[Rustic Goat]

What blade/deck set up are you using on your machine?
What exact type blade(s)?
If using mulching blade, single or double, are you discharging or have a mulching kit installed?

[pzorrill]

Thanks for your input guys.

To be precise:

1. I understand the OSHA and safety issue. That has been the main reason for not messing with it (yet).

2. I unfortunately cannot yet afford a mower with a higher blade speed (ie; Dixie Chopper)

This is my residential mower (main one):

Toro Proline 32" walk behind
dual blade (Mulching blades)
side discharge
No bagger.

Again, thanks for the input.

[1grnlwn]

First are you sure your engine is even turning spec? 3600 rpm You could easily bump your rpm a 100 rpm and still be safe. Heck how do you think dixie gets the speed? Well the one I demoed was turning almost 3900 at no load WOT. As govenor springs get week the rpm's drop. I gotta Laugh as long as I have been on here I have never heard of a blade breaking off.
What if something happens, like the blade breaks off and hits someone or something.

A. Go home and decrease engine speed.

B Buy new blades.

C. Call Insurance man.