Lawn-Boy 22242 User manual

Operator’s Manual
Original Instructions (EN)
Form No. 3353-480 Rev A
Commercial
Walk-behind Power Mower
Model No. 22242—250000001 and Up
Model No. 22243—250000001 and Up

2
W2005 by Lawn-Boy, Inc.
8111 Lyndale Avenue South
Bloomington, MN 55420-1196
Contact us at www.lawn-boy.com
All Rights Reserved
Printed in the USA
CALIFORNIA
Proposition 65 Warning
The engine exhaust from this product contains
chemicals known to the State of California to
cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive
harm.
Warning
Important This engine is not equipped with a spark
arrester muffler. It is a violation of California Public
Resource Code Section 4442 to use or operate this engine
on any forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-covered
land. Other states or federal areas may have similar laws.
This spark ignition system complies with Canadian
ICES-002.
Ce système d’allumage par étincelle de véhicule est
conforme à la norme NMB-002 du Canada.
The enclosed Engine Owner’s Manual is supplied for
information regarding The U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Emission
Control Regulation of emission systems, maintenance
and warranty.
Keep this engine Owner’s Manual with your unit.
Should this engine Owner’s Manual become damaged
or illegible, replace immediately. Replacements may be
ordered through the engine manufacturer.
Contents
Page
Introduction 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General Operation 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Slope Operation 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Children 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safe Handling of Gasoline 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General Service 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety and Instruction Decals 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Setup 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assembling the Handle 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjusting the Handle Height 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing the Fuel Tank 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing the Cover Plate 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Before Starting 8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Filling the Crankcase with Oil 8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Filling the Fuel Tank with Gasoline 9. . . . . . . . . .
Operation 10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Starting the Engine 10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stopping the Engine 10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using the Self-propel Drive 11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjusting the Cutting Height 11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating Tips 11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintenance 13. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Recommended Maintenance Schedule 13. . . . . . . .
Checking the Engine Oil Level 13. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning the Lawn Mower Housing 14. . . . . . . . . .
Lubricating the Rear Height Adjusters 14. . . . . . . .
Cleaning the Air Filter 14. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintaining the Spark Plug 15. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Changing the Engine Oil 15. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintaining the Cutting Blade 15. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lubricating the Wheels 17. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjusting the Self-propel Cable 17. . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning the Cooling System 17. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Emptying the Fuel Tank 18. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Storage 18. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Preparing the Fuel System 18. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Preparing the Engine 18. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General Information 18. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing from Storage 18. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accessories 19. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing the Rear Grass Catcher 19. . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing the Mulch Plate 20. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Troubleshooting 21. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Lawn-Boy No-Worry Warranty 24. . . . . . . . . . . . .

3
Introduction
Read this manual carefully to learn how to operate and
maintain your product properly. The information in this
manual can help you and others avoid injury and product
damage. Although Lawn-Boy designs and produces safe
products, you are responsible for operating the product
properly and safely.
You may contact Lawn-Boy directly at
www.lawn-boy.com for product and accessory
information, help finding a dealer, or to register your
product.
Whenever you need service, genuine Lawn-Boy parts, or
additional information, contact an Authorized Service
Dealer or Lawn-Boy Customer Service and have the
model and serial numbers of your product ready. Figure 1
illustrates the location of the model and serial numbers on
the product.
1149
2
1
1064
Figure 1
1. Location of the model and serial numbers (Model 22242)
2. Location of the model and serial numbers (Model 22242)
Write the product model and serial numbers in the space
below:
Model No.
Serial No.
This manual identifies potential hazards and has special
safety messages that help you and others avoid personal
injury and even death. Danger, Warning, and Caution are
signal words used to identify the level of hazard.
However, regardless of the hazard, be extremely careful.
Danger signals an extreme hazard that will cause serious
injury or death if you do not follow the recommended
precautions.
Warning signals a hazard that may cause serious injury or
death if you do not follow the recommended precautions.
Caution signals a hazard that may cause minor or
moderate injury if you do not follow the recommended
precautions.
This manual uses two other words to highlight
information. Important calls attention to special
mechanical information and Note: emphasizes general
information worthy of special attention.
Safety
This lawn mower meets or exceeds the CPSC blade
safety requirements for walk-behind rotary lawn
mowers and the B71.1 specifications of the American
National Standards Institute in effect at the time of
production.
Read and understand the contents of this manual
before the engine is ever started.
This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert
you to potential personal injury hazards. Obey all
safety messages that follow this symbol to avoid
possible injury or death.
Improperly using or maintaining this mower could
result in injury or death. To reduce this potential,
comply with the following safety instructions.
The following instructions have been adapted from the
ANSI/OPEI standard B71.1—2003.
This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and
feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following
safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
General Operation
•Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the
machine and in the manual(s) before starting.
•Do not put hands or feet near or under the machine.
Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.
•Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with
the instructions, to operate this machine.
•Clear the area of objects such as rocks, wire, toys, etc.,
which could be thrown by the blade. Stay behind the
handle when the engine is running.
•Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before
operating. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
•Do not operate machine barefooted or while wearing
sandals. Always wear substantial footwear.
•Do not pull machine backward unless absolutely
necessary. Always look down and behind before and
while moving backward.
•Never direct discharged material toward anyone.
Avoid discharging material against a wall or
obstruction. Material may ricochet back toward the
operator. Stop the blade when crossing gravel surfaces.

4
•Do not operate machine without the entire grass
catcher, discharge guard, rear guard, or other safety
protective devices in place and working.
•Never leave a running machine unattended.
•Stop the engine and wait until the blade comes to a
complete stop before cleaning the machine, removing
grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge guard.
•Operate machine only in daylight or good artificial
light.
•Do not operate machine while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
•Never operate mower in wet grass. Always be sure of
your footing; walk; never run.
•Disengage the drive system, if so equipped, before
starting the engine.
•If the machine should start to vibrate abnormally, stop
the engine and check for the cause immediately.
Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
•Always wear eye protection when operating machine.
•See manufacturer’s instructions for proper operation
and installation of accessories. Only use accessories
approved by the manufacturer.
Slope Operation
Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents,
which can result in severe injury. Operation on all slopes
require extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not
mow it.
•Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down.
Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on
slopes.
•Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden
objects. Uneven terrain could cause a slip and fall
accident. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
•Do not mow on wet grass or excessively steep slopes.
Poor footing could cause a slip and fall accident.
•Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments.
You could lose your footing or balance.
Children
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to
the presence of children. Children are often attracted to
the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that
children will remain where you last saw them.
•Keep children out of the mowing area and under the
watchful care of a responsible adult other than the
operator.
•Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area.
•Never allow children to operate the machine.
•Use extra care when approaching blind corners,
shrubs, trees, or other objects that may block your
view of a child.
Service
Safe Handling of Gasoline
To avoid personal injury or property damage, use
extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is
extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive.
•Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other
sources of ignition.
•Use only an approved gasoline container.
•Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine
running. Allow engine to cool before refueling.
•Never refuel the machine indoors.
•Never store the machine or fuel container where there
is an open flame, spark, or pilot light such as on a
water heater or on other appliances.
•Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or
trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers
on the ground away from your vehicle before filling.
•Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or
trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not
possible, then refuel such equipment with a portable
container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser
nozzle.
•Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel
tank or container opening at all times until fueling is
complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.
•If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing
immediately.
•Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas cap and tighten
securely.
Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an
odorless, deadly poison that can kill you.
Do not run the engine indoors or in an enclosed
area.
Warning

5
General Service
•Never operate machine in a closed area.
•Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be sure the equipment
is in safe working condition.
•Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly.
•Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris
build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage and remove any
fuel-soaked debris. Allow machine to cool before
storing.
•If you strike a foreign object, stop and inspect the
machine. Repair, if necessary, before starting.
•Never make any adjustments or repairs with the engine
running. Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground
against engine to prevent unintended starting.
•Check grass catcher components and the discharge
guard frequently and replace with manufacturer’s
recommended parts, when necessary.
•Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear
gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.
•Do not change the engine governor setting or
overspeed the engine.
•Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as
necessary.
Safety and Instruction Decals
Safety decals and instructions are easily visible to the operator and are located near any
area of potential danger. Replace any decal that is damaged or lost.
39-5770
108-9336
93-7250

6
Setup
Note: Determine the left and right sides of the machine
from the normal operating position.
Assembling the Handle
Folding or unfolding the handle improperly can
pinch, stretch, or damage one or more of the
cables. Any pinched, stretched, or damaged cable
may cause an operational failure that results in an
unsafe operating condition.
•Do not pinch, stretch, or damage the cables.
•Handle the cables with care when folding or
unfolding the handle.
•Do not use the lawn mower if one or more of
the cables are pinched, stretched, or damaged.
Contact an Authorized Service Dealer.
Warning
1. Lift the top handle half in an arc until the handle
sections nest together and the holes line up.
2. Using the hardware shown in Figure 2, secure the
handle halves together.
1180
Figure 2
3. Squeeze the lower handle section together and place it
over the pins on the handle brackets (Fig. 3 or Fig. 4).
3
12
4
M–3897
Figure 3
Model 22242
1. High setting
2. Medium setting
3. Low setting
4. Lawn mower housing
3
124
67
5M–2506
Figure 4
Model 22243
1. High setting
2. Medium setting
3. Low setting
4. Lawn mower housing
5. Traction cable bracket
6. Traction cable spring
7. Actuator bracket
4. Hook the traction cable spring into the actuator bracket
as shown in Figure 4 (model 22243 only).
5. Match the three holes in the traction cable bracket to
the three holes in the left side of the lawn mower
housing (model 22243 only) (Fig. 4).

7
Adjusting the Handle Height
You can set the handle height in three positions: high,
medium, or low (Fig. 3 or Fig. 4). Select a handle height
position that is most comfortable for you.
Align the holes in the lower handle section with the holes
in the lawn mower housing. Using the hardware shown in
Figure 3 or Figure 4, secure the handle to the lawn mower
housing.
Installing the Fuel Tank
1. Locate the fuel hose attached to the carburetor (Fig. 5).
Remove and discard the cap on the free end of the
hose.
m–3886
1
2
Figure 5
1. Fuel hose 2. Fuel shutoff valve
2. Remove and discard the red plastic cap from the fuel
shutoff valve (Fig. 5).
3. Push the hose onto the fuel shutoff valve in fuel tank,
completely covering all ridges of the fitting (Fig. 5).
4. Place the fuel tank onto the mounting bracket with
tabs through the openings in the mounting bracket
(Fig. 6).
m–38881
2
Figure 6
1. Tabs 2. Mounting bracket
5. Slide the clips through the tabs of the tank under the
mounting bracket until they snap into the locked
position (Fig. 7).
m–3889
1
Figure 7
1. Clips
Installing the Cover Plate
Your lawn mower was shipped with a cover plate. For side
discharge operation, install the cover plate in the deck
opening.
An uncovered discharge opening could allow the
lawn mower to throw objects in the operator’s or
bystander’s direction and result in serious injury.
Also, contact with the blade could occur.
Never operate the lawn mower unless you install a
cover plate, a mulch plate, or a grass chute and
catcher.
Warning
1. Stop the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop.
2. Disconnect the wire from the spark plug (Fig. 8).
1
m-8231
Figure 8
1. Spark-plug wire

8
3. Remove the bolt that fastens the cover plate to the
housing (Fig. 9).
1754
1
2
Figure 9
1. Cover plate 2. Bolt
Note: You do not need to loosen or remove the two
shoulder bolts on the housing that protrude through the
slotted holes in the cover plate. The cover plate moves
over the shoulder bolt heads (Fig. 10).
995
1
Figure 10
1. Shoulder bolt
4. Slide the cover plate clockwise to install it or
counterclockwise to remove it.
5. Secure the cover plate with the bolt.
6. Connect the wire to the spark plug.
Before Starting
Filling the Crankcase with Oil
Before each use, ensure that the oil level is between the
Add and the Full marks on the dipstick.
1. Move the lawn mower to a level surface.
2. Clean around the dipstick (Fig. 11).
2
1
m-8232
Figure 11
1. Dipstick 2. Fuel tank cap
3. Remove the dipstick by rotating the cap
counterclockwise and pulling it out.
4. Wipe the dipstick clean with a clean cloth.
5. Fully insert the dipstick into the filler neck, then
remove it.
Note: To ensure an accurate oil level reading, you
must fully install the dipstick.
6. Read the oil level on the dipstick (Fig. 11).
7. If the oil level reading is below the Add mark on the
dipstick, slowly pour only enough oil into the filler
hole to raise the oil level to the Full mark on the
dipstick.
Note: Maximum fill: 20 oz. (0.59 liters) of oil. Type:
SAE 30 weight detergent oil that has the American
Petroleum Institute (API) service classification SF, SG,
SH, SJ, or SL.
Important Do not overfill the crankcase with oil and
run the engine; engine damage will result. Drain the
excess oil until the oil level on the dipstick reads Full.
8. Insert the dipstick into the filler neck and rotate the
cap clockwise until it is tight.

9
Filling the Fuel Tank with
Gasoline
For best results, use clean, fresh, lead-free gasoline with
an octane rating of 87 or higher. To ensure freshness,
purchase only the quantity of gasoline that you expect to
use in 30 days. Using unleaded gasoline results in fewer
combustion deposits and longer engine life. You may use
leaded gasoline if unleaded gasoline is not available.
Important Do not add oil to the gasoline.
Important Do not use methanol, gasoline containing
methanol, gasohol containing more than 10% ethanol,
premium gasoline, or white gas. Using these fuels can
damage the engine’s fuel system.
Important Do not use gasoline that is more than 30
days old.
Danger
In certain conditions, gasoline is extremely
flammable and highly explosive. A fire or
explosion from gasoline can burn you and others
and can damage property.
•Fill the fuel tank outdoors, in an open area, and
when the engine is cold. Wipe up any gasoline
that spills.
•Do not fill the fuel tank completely full. Add
gasoline to the fuel tank until the level is 1/4 to
1/2 in. (6 to 13 mm) below the bottom of the
filler neck. This empty space in the tank allows
the gasoline to expand.
•Never smoke when handling gasoline, and stay
away from an open flame or where a spark may
ignite the gasoline fumes.
•Store gasoline in an approved fuel container
and keep it out of the reach of children.
•Never buy more than a 30-day supply of
gasoline.
Danger
When fueling, under certain circumstances, a
static charge can develop, igniting the gasoline. A
fire or explosion from gasoline can burn you and
others and damage property.
•Always place gasoline containers on the ground
and away from your vehicle before filling.
•Do not fill gasoline containers inside a vehicle
or on a truck or trailer bed because interior
carpets or plastic truck bed liners may insulate
the container and slow the loss of any static
charge.
•When practical, remove gasoline-powered
equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel
the equipment with its wheels on the ground.
•If this is not possible, then refuel such
equipment on a truck or trailer from a portable
container, not from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.
•If you must use a gasoline dispenser nozzle,
keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the
fuel tank or container opening at all times until
fueling is complete.
Use a fuel stabilizer/conditioner regularly during
operation and storage. A fuel stabilizer/conditioner cleans
the engine during operation and prevents gum-like varnish
deposits from forming in the engine during periods of
storage.
Important Do not use fuel additives other than a fuel
stabilizer/conditioner . Do not use fuel stabilizers with an
alcohol base such as ethanol, methanol, or isopropanol.
1. Clean around the fuel cap (Fig. 11).
2. Remove the fuel cap and fill the fuel tank with
gasoline-to within 1/4 inch (6 mm) from the top of the
tank. Do not fill into the filler neck.
3. Install the fuel cap securely and wipe up any spilled
fuel.

10
Operation
Note: Determine the left and right sides of the machine
from the normal operating position.
Starting the Engine
1. Open the fuel shutoff valve (Fig. 12).
m–3887
1
Figure 12
1. Fuel shut off valve
2. Push the primer three times (Fig. 13).
Note: Wait about two seconds between each push.
1
m-8227
Figure 13
1. Primer
3. Hold the blade control bail against the upper handle
(Fig. 14).
m-2505
1
2
Figure 14
1. Blade control bail 2. Starter handle
4. Pull the starter handle (Fig. 14) lightly until you feel
resistance, then pull it sharply. Let the rope return to
the handle slowly.
5. If the engine fails to start, repeat steps 2 through 4.
Stopping the Engine
1. Release the blade control bail (Fig. 15). Both the
engine and the blade should stop. If they do not,
contact an Authorized Service Dealer.
m-1046
1
Figure 15
1. Blade control bail

11
Using the Self-propel Drive
Model 22243 only
1. Move the ground speed lever to one of three ground
speeds: 1(slow), 2(medium), or 3 (fast). Select a
speed that is comfortable for you to walk and not too
fast for the grass length.
Note: Do not change the ground speed with the
self-propel drive engaged. Stop the lawn mower, set the
ground speed lever in desired position, and then continue
mowing.
2. Move ground speed lever to N(Neutral) for push
operation, trimming, or when leaving the lawn mower.
3. To operate self-propel drive, squeeze the self-propel
bail against the handle and hold it (Fig. 16).
1048
1
Figure 16
1. Self-propel bail
Note: You can vary the ground speed slightly by
increasing the space between the self-propel bail and the
handle.
4. To disengage the self-propel drive, release the
self-propel bail (Fig. 17).
1047
1
Figure 17
1. Self-propel bail
Note: The lawn mower comes with free-wheeling clutches
that make it easier to pull the lawn mower rearward. To
disengage clutches, you may need to push the lawn mower
forward an inch or more after you have released the
self-propel bail.
Adjusting the Cutting Height
Each wheel adjusts individually with a wheel height
adjustment lever. Cutting heights are 1 in. (25 mm);
1–1/2 in. (38 mm); 2 in. (51 mm); 2–1/2 in. (64 mm); 3 in.
(74 mm); and 3–1/2 inches (89 mm).
Danger
Adjusting the cutting height levers could bring
your hands into contact with a moving blade and
result in serious injury.
•Stop the engine and wait for all movement to
stop before adjusting the cutting height.
•Do not put fingers under the housing when
adjusting the cutting height.
1. Pull the wheel height adjustment lever toward the
wheel and move it to the desired position (Fig. 18).
1195
1
Figure 18
1. Wheel height adjustment lever
2. Release the wheel height adjustment lever and seat it
securely in the notch.
Note: Set all four wheels at the same height.
Operating Tips
•Review the safety instructions and read this manual
carefully before operating the lawn mower.
•Clear the area of sticks, stones, wire, branches, and
other debris that the lawn mower could pick up or the
blade could hit and throw objects.
•Keep everyone, especially children and pets, away
from the area of operation.
•Avoid striking trees, walls, curbs, or other solid
objects. Never deliberately mow over any object.
•If the lawn mower strikes an object or starts to vibrate,
immediately stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug
wire, and examine the lawn mower for damage.
•Maintain a sharp blade throughout the cutting season.
Periodically file down nicks on blade.

12
•Replace the blade when necessary with an original
Lawn-Boy replacement blade.
•Mow only dry grass or leaves. Wet grass and leaves
tend to clump on the yard and may cause the lawn
mower to plug or the engine to stall.
Wet grass or leaves can cause you to slip, contact
the blade, and seriously injure you.
Mow only in dry conditions.
Warning
•Clean clippings or leaves from the underside of the
lawn mower deck after each mowing. See Cleaning the
Lawn Mower Housing on page 14.
•Keep the engine in good running condition.
•Clean the air filter frequently. Mulching stirs up more
clippings and dust which clogs the air filter and
reduces engine performance.
•To achieve the best mulching action, set the lawn
mower height of cut so that the lawn mower cuts no
more than a third of the grass stem or a maximum of
one-inch (25 mm) long clippings. If you try to mulch
more or if the grass is very lush, the mulching action
will be poor. Under these conditions, use the side
discharge or grass catcher. A few days later, install the
mulch plate on your lawn mower to resume mulching.
Cutting Grass
•In the summer, cut the grass at the 2, 2-1/2, or 3-inch
(51, 64, or 76 mm) cutting height settings. Only cut off
about one-third of the grass blade. Do not cut below
the two-inch setting unless the grass is sparse or it is
late autumn when the grass growth begins to slow
down.
•When cutting grass over six inches tall, first mow
using the highest cutting height setting and walking
slower; then mow again at a lower setting for best
lawn appearance. If grass is too long and leaves
clumps on top of the lawn, the lawn mower may plug
and cause engine to stall.
•Alternate the mowing direction. This helps disperse
the clippings over the lawn for even fertilization.
If the finished cut lawn appearance is unsatisfactory, try
one or more of the following:
•Sharpen the blade.
•Walk at a slower pace while mowing.
•Raise the cutting height on your lawn mower.
•Cut the grass more frequently.
•Overlap the cutting swaths instead of cutting a full
swath with each pass.
•Set the cutting height on the front wheels one notch
lower than the rear wheels.
Cutting Leaves
•After cutting the lawn, make sure that half of the lawn
shows through the cut leaf cover. You may need to
make one or more passes over the leaves.
•For light leaf coverage, set all the wheels at the same
cutting height.
•If there are more than 5 inches (12.7 cm) of leaves on
the lawn, set the front wheels one or two notches
higher than the rear wheels. This makes it easier to
feed the leaves under the lawn mower deck.
•Slow down your mowing speed if the lawn mower
does not cut the leaves finely enough.
•If you cut up a lot of oak leaves, you can add lime to
your grass in the spring to reduce the acidity of the oak
leaves.

13
Maintenance
Note: Determine the left and right sides of the machine from the normal operating position.
Recommended Maintenance Schedule
Maintenance Service
Interval Maintenance Procedure
Each Use •Remove grass clippings and dirt from under the housing.
5 Hours •Check the blade and the engine mounting fasteners. Tighten them if they are
loose.
25 Hours
•Lubricate the front and rear wheels (Model 22242 only).
•Lubricate the rear-height adjustors and the front wheels (Model 22243 only).
50 Hours
•Check the stopping time of the blade brake. The blade must stop within three
seconds of releasing the bail; if it does not, contact an Authorized Service Dealer
for repair.
•Change the engine oil.1
•Clean the air filter. Clean it more frequently in dusty operating conditions.
•Clean, inspect, and gap the spark plug; replace it if necessary.
•Sharpen or replace the blade; maintain it more frequently if the edge dulls
quickly in rough or in sandy conditions.
•Check for leaks in the fuel system and/or a deteriorating fuel hose. Replace
parts if necessary.
•Lubricate the wheels.
•Adjust the self-propel drive cable (Model 22243 only).
100 Hours
•Clean the cooling system; remove grass clippings, debris, or dirt from the engine
air cooling fins and starter. Clean the system more frequently in dirty or
high-chaff conditions.
1Change the engine oil after the first 5 hours.
Important Refer to your engine operator’s manual for additional maintenance procedures.
Caution
If you leave the wire on the spark plug, someone could accidently start the engine and seriously
injure you or other bystanders.
Disconnect the wire from the spark plug before you do any maintenance. Set the wire aside so
that it does not accidentally contact the spark plug.
Checking the Engine Oil Level
Before you use the lawn mower, ensure that the oil level is
between the Add and the Full marks as shown on the
dipstick (Fig. 11). If the oil level is below the Add mark,
add oil. Refer to Filling the Crankcase with Oil on
page 8.

14
Cleaning the Lawn Mower
Housing
Scraping Method
A clean lawn mower housing provides the best cutting
performance. Check for grass buildup and clean the
housing after each use.
1. Run the engine dry or remove the gas with hand pump
when the engine is cool.
Tipping the lawn mower may cause the fuel to
leak from the carburetor or the fuel tank.
Gasoline is extremely flammable, highly explosive
and under certain conditions can cause personal
injury or property damage.
Avoid fuel spills by running the engine dry or
removing gasoline with a hand pump; never
siphon.
Warning
2. Disconnect the wire from the spark plug (Fig. 8).
3. Tip lawn mower onto its right side (air filter up).
4. Scrape the built-up grass clippings and dirt from the
lawn mower housing with a hardwood scraper.
5. Connect the wire to the spark plug.
Washing Method
1. If there is a grass bag on the mower, remove the bag.
2. With the engine running on a flat paved surface, spray
a stream of water in front of the right rear wheel.
1093
Figure 19
Note: The water will splash into the path of the blade,
cleaning out the clippings.
3. When no more clippings come out, stop the water and
move the mower to a dry area.
4. Run the eninge for a few minutes to dry the housing to
prevent it from rusting.
Lubricating the Rear Height
Adjusters
Model 22243 only
1. Wipe the grease fittings on the rear height-of-cut
adjusters (Fig. 20) with a clean rag.
10181
Figure 20
1. Grease fitting
2. Install the grease gun onto each fitting and gently
apply one or two pumps of #2 multi-purpose lithium
grease.
Important Excess grease may damage the seals and
prevent the wheel clutch from properly operating.
Cleaning the Air Filter
Clean the air filter once every season or every 50 hours;
clean it more frequently under dusty conditions.
Note: Do not operate the engine without the air filter
element; extreme engine damage will occur.
1. Stop the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop.
2. Disconnect the wire from the spark plug (Fig. 11).
3. Loosen the screws that secure the air filter cover to the
engine (Fig. 21).
1
m-8229
Figure 21
1. Air filter cover

15
4. Remove the air filter cover (Fig. 22).
m-8230
Figure 22
5. Remove and discard the old air filter.
Important Do not try to clean a paper air filter.
6. Insert a new air filter.
7. Install the air filter cover.
8. Connect the wire to the spark plug.
Maintaining the Spark Plug
A spark plug that is dirty, pitted, carbon-covered, or has
worn electrodes may cause hard starting and poor
operation.
Clean or replace the spark plug once a season or every
50 hours, whichever occurs first. Use a Champion
RJ19LM spark plug or equivalent.
1. Disconnect the wire from the spark plug (Fig. 8).
2. Remove the spark plug and clean it with a wire brush,
removing carbon buildup.
Important Do not sandblast the spark plug.
3. Check the condition of the plug for cracks and
damaged or worn electrodes. Replace it if necessary.
4. Set the spark plug gap at 0.030 in. (0.76 mm)
(Fig. 23).
986
1
Figure 23
1. 0.035 in. (0.85 mm)
5. Install the spark plug by hand, then torque it to
180 in-lb (15 ft-lb or 20 N⋅m).
6. Connect the wire to the spark plug.
Changing the Engine Oil
Change the oil after the first 5 operating hours and then
after every 50 hours or every season. Run the engine just
before changing the oil to warm the oil. Warm oil flows
better and carries more contaminants.
Note: Change the oil after every 25 hours when operating
under a heavy load or in high temperatures.
1. Remove the grass bag.
2. Disconnect the wire from the spark plug (Fig. 11).
3. If the grass bag is on the lawn mower, close the door in
the lawn mower housing and remove the bag.
4. Drain the gasoline from the fuel tank; refer to steps 3
and 4 of Emptying the Fuel Tank on page 18.
5. Remove the dipstick from oil fill tube and place a
drain pan next to the left side of the lawn mower.
6. Tip the lawn mower onto its left side, allowing the oil
to drain into the drain pan.
7. Turn the lawn mower upright.
8. Fill the crankcase with fresh oil to the Full mark on the
dipstick. Refer to Filling the Crankcase with Oil on
page 8.
9. Install the dipstick.
10. Wipe up any spilled oil.
11. Connect the wire to the spark plug.
12. Recycle the used oil according to local codes.
Maintaining the Cutting Blade
A straight, sharp blade provides maximum cutting
performance. Regularly inspect and sharpen the blade.
The blade is sharp; contacting the blade can result
in serious personal injury.
Wear gloves or wrap the sharp edges of the blade
with a rag.
Warning

16
Inspecting the Blade
Carefully examine the blade for sharpness and wear,
especially where the flat and the curved parts meet
(Fig. 24A). Because sand and abrasive material can wear
away the metal that connects the flat and curved parts of
the blade, check the blade before using the lawn mower. If
you notice a slot or wear (Figs. 24B and 24C), replace the
blade; refer to Removing the Blade on page 16.
270
1
1
1
2
3
4
A
B
C
Figure 24
1. Sail
2. Flat part of blade
3. Wear
4. Slot formed
Note: For the best performance, install a new blade before
the cutting season begins. During the year, file down any
small nicks to maintain the cutting edge.
Danger
A worn or damaged blade can break, and a piece
of the blade could be thrown into the operator’s
or bystander’s area, resulting in serious personal
injury or death.
•Inspect the blade periodically for wear or
damage.
•Replace a worn or damaged blade.
Removing the Blade
1. Grasp the end of the blade using a rag or a thickly
padded glove.
2. Remove the blade bolt (Fig. 25).
m-2507a
1
23
Figure 25
1. Blade bolt
2. Blade
3. Blade driver
3. Remove the blade and the blade driver (Fig. 25).
4. Examine the blade cutting edges for nicks, cutting
angle, and sharpness. Sharpen or replace the blade if
necessary.
5. Examine the blade driver for bent or sheared drive
lugs. Replace it if necessary.
Sharpening the Blade
1. Sharpen only the leading edge of blade with a file or
grinder. Do not sharpen beyond the recommended
area.
Note: Blade should not be ground more than 5 inches
(127 mm) from outside ends and no less than 2 inches
(51 mm) from trailing edge (Fig. 26).
990
2” (51 mm)
5”
(127 mm)
Figure 26

17
Balancing the Blade
1. Check the balance of the blade by placing the center
hole of the blade over a nail or a screwdriver shank
clamped horizontally in a vise (Fig. 27).
1007
Figure 27
2. If either end of blade rotates downward, grind or file
that end (not the cutting edge or the end near the
cutting edge). The blade is properly balanced when
neither end drops.
Installing the Blade
1. Ensure that the blade driver (Fig. 25) is installed on
the crankshaft.
2. Locate the blade over the lugs of the blade driver with
the curved ends toward the housing.
3. Torque the blade bolt to 60 to 70 ft-lb (82 to 96 Nm).
Lubricating the Wheels
1. Wipe the grease fittings (Fig. 28) with a clean rag.
1195
1
Figure 28
1. Grease fitting
2. Apply grease into each fitting until the grease appears
around the wheel attachment bolt.
Adjusting the Self-propel Cable
Model 22243 only
Whenever you change the handle height, install a new
self-propel cable, or if the traction drive belt slips, adjust
the self-propel cable.
Adjust the self-propel cable at the left handle bracket by
moving the cable jacket held by jam nuts (Fig. 29).
1131
2
1
2
3
Figure 29
1. Cable jacket
2. Jam nut
3. Spring
1. Hold the self-propel bail 1 to 1!/2in. (25 to 38 mm)
from the handle.
2. Adjust the jam nuts at the handle bracket so that the
cable is tight without stretching the spring.
3. Tighten the jam nuts securely.
4. Release the bail and ensure that the cable is loose.
Note: The cable must be loose when you release the
self-propel bail or the lawn mower may creep forward
when the bail is in the disengaged position.
Cleaning the Cooling System
After every 100 operating hours or every season, clean the
dirt and the chaff from the cylinder, the cylinder head fins,
and around the carburetor and the linkage. Remove debris
from the air intake slots on the recoil housing. This will
ensure proper cooling and the best engine performance.

18
Emptying the Fuel Tank
1. Stop the engine and wait for it to cool.
Important Drain gasoline from a cold engine only.
2. Disconnect the wire from the spark plug (Fig. 11).
3. Remove the cap from the fuel tank (Fig. 11).
4. Use a hand pump to pump the gasoline into a clean
approved gasoline container.
5. Connect the wire to the spark plug.
6. Run the engine until it stops.
7. Start the engine again to ensure that all the gasoline is
out of the carburetor.
Storage
To prepare the lawn mower for off-season storage,
perform the recommended maintenance procedures.
Refer to Maintenance on page 13.
Store the lawn mower in a cool, dry place. Cover the lawn
mower to keep it clean and protected.
Preparing the Fuel System
Gasoline can vaporize if you store it over long
periods of time and explode if it comes into
contact with an open flame.
•Do not store gasoline over long periods of time.
•Do not store the lawn mower with gasoline in
the fuel tank or the carburetor in an enclosure
with an open flame. (For example, a furnace or
a water heater pilot light.)
•Allow the engine to cool before storing it in any
enclosure.
Warning
1. Empty the fuel tank using a hand-type siphon only.
2. Run the lawn mower until the engine stops from
running out of fuel.
3. Prime the engine and start it again.
4. Allow the engine to run until it stops. When you can
no longer start the engine, it is sufficiently dry.
Preparing the Engine
1. While the engine is still warm, change the oil in the
crankcase. Refer to Changing the Engine Oil on
page 15.
2. Remove the spark plug; refer to Maintaining the Spark
Plug on page 15.
3. Using an oil can, add about one tablespoon of oil to
the engine through the spark plug hole.
4. Slowly rotate the engine several times, using the
starter rope, to distribute the oil.
5. Install the spark plug but do not connect the wire to
the spark plug.
General Information
1. Clean the lawn mower housing. Refer to Cleaning the
Lawn Mower Housing on page 14.
2. Clean any dirt and chaff from the cylinder, the cylinder
head fins, and the blower housing.
3. Remove grass clippings, dirt, and grime from the
external parts of the engine, the shrouding, and the top
of the lawn mower housing.
4. Check the condition of the blade. Refer to Maintaining
the Cutting Blade on page 15.
5. Tighten all nuts, bolts, and screws.
6. Touch up all rusted or chipped paint surfaces with
paint available from an Authorized Service Dealer.
Removing from Storage
1. Check and tighten all fasteners.
2. Remove the spark plug and spin the engine rapidly
using the starter to blow excess oil from the cylinder.
3. Clean the spark plug or replace it if it is cracked,
broken, or if the electrodes are worn.
4. Install the spark plug and torque it to 180 in-lb
(15 ft-lb or 20 Nm).
5. Perform the recommended maintenance procedures.
Refer to Maintenance on page 13.
6. Fill the fuel tank with a fresh, clean gasoline-and-oil
mix.
7. Connect the wire to the spark plug.

19
Accessories
Your lawn mower may include accessories available from
your Authorized Service Dealer. For proper installation of
these accessories, follow these instructions.
Installing the Rear Grass
Catcher
An uncovered discharge opening could allow the
lawn mower to throw objects in the operator’s or
bystander’s direction and result in serious injury.
Also, contact with the blade could occur.
Never operate the lawn mower unless you install a
cover plate, a mulch plate, or a grass chute and
catcher.
Warning
1. Stop the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop.
2. Disconnect wire from the spark plug (Fig. 8).
3. Place the chute assembly into the housing opening
(Fig. 30).
1753
12
3
2
Figure 30
1. Chute assembly
2. Shoulder bolt
3. Cap screw
Note: You do not need to loosen or remove the two
shoulder bolts on the housing that protrude through the
slotted holes in the chute assembly. The chute assembly
moves over the shoulder bolt heads (Fig. 10).
4. Insert the chute support rod through the hole at the
right rear of the deck (Fig. 31).
1145
1
Figure 31
1. Chute support rod
5. Slide the chute assembly clockwise to install it or
counterclockwise to remove it.
6. Secure the chute assembly to the housing with a cap
screw (Fig. 30).
7. Remove the knob and the bolt that secure the left side
of the upper and lower handle sections (Fig. 32).
8. Hold the hanger clamp on the outside of the handle
sections. Insert the handle bolt from the inside of the
handle through the hole in the hanger clamp.
1011
2
1
3
4
Figure 32
1. Knob
2. Bolt
3. Hanger clamp
4. Bag hanger
9. Position the bag hanger leg into the hanger clamp
groove and secure with the knob.
10. Repeat steps 7 through 9 to assemble the clamp and
the hanger to the right side of the handle.
11. Close the rear of the bag by folding the sides in and
pressing the interlocking rear handle halves together
(Fig. 33).
1012
Figure 33

20
12. Position the rear bag handles into the bag hanger on
the handle.
13. Grasp the bag assembly handle and slide it over the
flange of the grass chute (Fig. 34). Push downward on
the handle until it seats into position.
1010
Figure 34
14. Ensure that the bag is taut on the top cloth area
between the front bag handle and the rear bag hanger
handles. If the bag is too tight or too loose, adjust it as
follows:
A. Remove the bag from the rear bag hanger.
B. Remove the bolts and knobs that secure the hanger
clamps to the handle sections (Fig. 32).
C. Assemble the hanger clamps to the handle sections
using the set of holes that best holds the bag taut.
Note: Using the lower holes in the hanger clamps tightens
the bag assembly; using the upper holes in the hanger
clamps loosens the bag assembly.
15. Connect the wire to the spark plug.
Note: Under normal use, the bag will deteriorate and
wear. Check the grass bag often and replace it when
necessary with a genuine Lawn-Boy replacement bag. A
weakened or inferior bag may let objects pass through and
cause damage or an injury.
Keep hands, sticks or other objects out of the
grass chute while the blade is turning; thrown
objects or blade contact can result in serious
injury.
Always stop the engine when emptying the grass
bag and disconnect the wire from the spark plug
before cleaning a clogged chute, a bag tunnel, or
the underside of the lawn mower housing.
Warning
16. Connect the wire to the spark plug.
Installing the Mulch Plate
An uncovered discharge opening could allow the
lawn mower to throw objects in the operator’s or
bystander’s direction and result in serious injury.
Also, contact with the blade could occur.
Never operate the lawn mower unless you install a
cover plate, a mulch plate, or a grass chute and
catcher.
Warning
1. Stop the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop.
2. Disconnect the wire from the spark plug (Fig. 8).
3. Insert the mulch plate into the housing opening
(Fig. 35).
1123
1
Figure 35
1. Mulch plate
Note: You do not need to loosen or remove the two
shoulder bolts on the housing that protrude through the
slotted holes in the mulch plate (Fig. 10).
1755
3
1
2
Figure 36
1. Mulch plate
2. Shoulder bolts
3. Cap screw