Lawn-Boy Silver Series User manual

Operator’s Manual
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Lawn-Boy Inc., Attn: Parts Dept., 81 1 1 L yndale A ve S, Bloomington, MN 55420-1 196.
Domestic English (EN)
Form No. 3323-334
Silver Series

Walk Power Lawn Mower
Model No. 10334—200000001 and Up

Printed in USA 2
E1999 Lawn-Boy, Inc.
All Rights Reserved
Contents
Page
Introduction 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General Lawn Mower Safety 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety and Instruction Decals 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Assembly 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unfolding the Handle 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Changing the Handle Height 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Before Starting 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Filling the Crankcase with Oil 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Filling the Fuel T ank with Gasoline 7 . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operation 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Controls 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Starting the Engine 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stopping the Engine 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using the Self-propel Drive 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjusting the Cutting Height 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating T ips 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintenance 11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Recommended Maintenance Schedule 11 . . . . . . . . .
Checking the Engine Oil 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Changing the Engine Oil 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning the Underside of the Lawn Mower
Housing 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning the Air Filter 13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjusting the Self-propel Drive Cable 14 . . . . . . . . . .
Lubricating the Self-propel Drive 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning the Self-propel Drive 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintaining the Blade 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintaining the Spark Plug 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Emptying the Fuel T ank 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Troubleshooting 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Storage 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Preparing the Fuel System 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Preparing the Engine 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General Information 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Folding the Handle 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing from Storage 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accessories 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing a Side Grass Catcher 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing the Grass Chute 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing the Bag Rod 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing the Side Grass Bag 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing the Cover Plate 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing the Mulch Plate 23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Warranty Back Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
WARNING
The engine exhaust fr om this product contains
chemicals known to the State of California to
cause cancer , birth defects, or other r eproductive
harm.
Introduction
Thank you for choosing a Lawn-Boy product. W e want
you to be completely satisfied with your new purchase.
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
.
Whenever you contact your Authorized Service Dealer or
the factory for help with service, genuine Lawn-Boy parts,
or additional information, have the model number and the
serial number of your product handy . Y ou will find the
model number and serial number decal on the product as
illustrated in Figure 1.
1064
1
Figure 1
1. Model number and serial number decal
Write the product model number and serial number 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, W ARNING, and
CAUTION are words used to identify the level of hazard.

3
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 CPSC blade safety
requir ements for walk-behind r otary mowers and the
B71.1 specifications of the American National
Standards Institute, in effect at time of pr oduction.
However
, impr oper use or maintenance by the
operator or owner can r esult in injury . T o r educe the
potential for injury , comply with these safety
instructions.
Lawn-Boy designed this lawn mower for cutting and
mulching grass, or, when equipped with a grass bag, for
catching cut grass. Any use for purposes other than these
could prove dangerous to the operator or to bystanders.
Note: This engine is not equipped with a spark arrester
muffler . Operating this mower on any forest-covered,
brush-covered, or unimproved grass-covered land without
an approved spark arrester muffler may violate your state
law.
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
• Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide,
which is an odorless, deadly poison.
WHA T CAN HAPPEN
• Carbon monoxide can kill you.
HOW T O A V OID THE HAZARD
• Do not run the engine indoors or in an enclosed
area.
T o ensur e maximum safety , best performance, and to
gain knowledge of the product, it is essential that you
and any other operator of the lawn mower read and
understand the contents of this manual before the
motor is ever started. Pay particular attention to the
safety alert symbol which means CAUTION,
W ARNING, OR DANGER — “personal safety
instruction.” Read and understand the instruction
because it has to do with safety . Failure to comply with
instruction may r esult in personal injury .
General Lawn Mower Safety
The following instructions have been adapted from the
ANSI/OPEI standard B71.1—1998 and ISO standard
5395:1990(E). Information or terminology specific to
Lawn-Boy lawn mowers is enclosed in parenthesis.
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.
Training
• Read the instructions carefully . Be familiar with the
controls and the proper use of the equipment before
starting.
•
See manufacturer ’ s instructions for proper operation
and installation of accessories. Only use accessories
approved by the manufacturer .
•
Never allow children or people unfamiliar with these
instructions to use the mower . Local regulations may
restrict the age of the operator .
• Never mow while people, especially children, or pets
are nearby . Stop mower if anyone enters the area.
T ragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to
the presence of children. Children are often attracted to
the mower 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.
• Be alert and turn mower of f if children enter the area.
• Use extra care when approaching blind corners,
shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
• Keep in mind that the operator or user is responsible
for accidents or hazards occurring to other people or
their property .
Preparation
• While mowing, always wear substantial footwear and
long trousers.
• Do not operate the equipment when barefoot or
wearing open sandals.
• Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side
shields when operating mower .

4
• Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to
be used and remove all stones, sticks, wires, bones,
and other foreign objects.
•W arning: Gasoline is highly flammable. T ake the
following precautions:
– Store fuel in containers specifically designed for
this purpose.
– Refuel outdoors only and do not smoke while
refuelling.
–
Add fuel before starting the engine. Never remove
the cap of the fuel tank or add gasoline while the
engine is running or when the engine is hot.
– If gasoline is spilled, do not attempt to start the
engine but move the machine away from the area
of spillage and avoid creating any source of
ignition until gasoline vapors have dissipated.
– Replace all fuel tank and container caps securely .
– If the fuel tank has to be drained, do this outdoors.
• Replace faulty muf flers.
• Before using, always visually inspect to see that the
blades, blade bolts, and cutter assembly are not worn
or damaged. Replace worn or damaged blades and
bolts in sets to preserve balance.
• On multibladed machines, take care as rotating one
blade can cause other blades to rotate.
Operation
• Do not operate the engine in a confined space where
dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can collect.
• Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light.
• Always be sure of your footing on slopes.
•W alk; never run.
• Keep a firm hold on the handle.
• For wheeled rotary machines, mow across the face of
slopes, never up and down.
• Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on
slopes.
•
Do not mow excessively steep slopes.
• Use extreme caution when reversing or pulling the
mower towards you.
• Before and while moving backwards, look behind and
down for small children.
• Stop the blade(s) if the mower has to be tilted for
transportation when crossing surfaces other than grass
and when transporting the mower to and from the area
to be mowed.
• Never operate the mower with damaged or missing
guards or shields, or without safety devices; for
example, deflectors and/or grass catchers in place.
• Do not change the engine governor settings or
overspeed the engine.
• Disengage all blade and drive clutches before starting
the engine.
• Start the engine or switch on the motor carefully
according to instructions and with feet well away from
the blade(s).
• Do not tilt when starting the engine or switching on
the motor , unless the mower has to be tilted for
starting. In this case, do not tilt it more than absolutely
necessary and lift only the part which is away from the
operator.
• Do not start the engine when standing in front of the
dischar ge chute.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.
Keep clear of the dischar ge opening at all times.
• Never pick up or carry a mower while the engine is
running.
• Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug lead
– before clearing blockages or unclogging chute;
– before checking, cleaning, or working on the
mower;
– after striking a foreign object. Inspect the mower
for damage and make repairs before restarting and
operating the mower;
– if mower starts to vibrate abnormally (check
immediately).
• Stop the engine
– whenever you leave the mower;
– before refuelling.
• Reduce the throttle setting during engine run-out and,
if the engine is provided with a shut-of f valve, turn the
fuel of f at the conclusion of mowing.
• Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives, walks,
or roads.
• Shut the engine (motor) of f and wait until the blade
comes to complete stop before removing grass catcher .
•
Do not operate the mower while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.

5
• If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally ,
stop the engine (motor) and check immediately for the
cause. V ibration is generally a warning of trouble.
Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents
which can result in severe injury. All slopes require extra
caution feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it.
•W atch for holes, ruts, or bumps. T all grass can hide
obstacles.
• Do not mow near drop-of fs, ditches, or embankments.
The operator could lose footing or balance.
• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced footing could
cause slipping.
Maintenance and Storage
•Keep all nuts, bolts (especially blade attachment
bolts), and screws tight to be sure the equipment is in
safe working condition.
• Never store the equipment with gasoline in the tank
inside a building where fumes may reach an open
flame or spark.
• Allow the engine to cool before storing in any
enclosure.
•T
o reduce the fire hazard, keep the engine, muf fler,
battery compartment, and gasoline storage area free of
grass, leaves, or excessive grease.
• Check the grass catcher frequently for wear or
deterioration.
• Replace worn or damaged parts for safety .
• Use extra care when handling gasoline; vapors are
explosive.
•
Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly .
•
Keep the mower free of grass, leaves, or other debris
build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage.
• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object.
Repair , if necessary , before restarting.
• Never attempt to make wheel height adjustments while
the engine (motor) is running.
• Always disconnect electric mowers (live operated)
before cleaning, repairing, or adjusting.
• Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage,
and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or
allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check
components and replace with manufacturer ’s
recommended parts when necessary .
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut. W rap the blade(s)
or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing
them.
• Do not change the engine governor setting or
overspeed the engine.
•T o ensure the best performance and safety , purchase
only genuine Lawn-Boy replacement parts and
accessories. Do not use “will fit” parts and
accessories; they may cause a safety hazard.
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.
By Front Wheels
(Part No. 92-2914 Right)
(Part No. 92-2915 Left)
On Muffler Guard
(Part No. 65-2690)
On Mower Housing
(Part No. 93-7250)
On Mower Housing
(Part No. 43-8480)
On Mower Housing
(Part No. 99-6018)

6
Assembly
Note: Determine the left and right sides of the lawn mower by standing in the operating position.
Unfolding the Handle
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
• Folding or unfolding the handle impr operly can
pinch, stretch, or damage one or mor e of the
cables.
WHA T CAN HAPPEN
• Any pinched, str etched, or damaged cable may
cause an operational failur e that r esults in an
unsafe operating condition.
HOW T O A V OID THE HAZARD
• Do not pinch, str etch, or damage the cables.
• Handle the cables with car e when folding or
unfolding the handle.
• Do not use the lawn mower if one or mor e of
the cables ar e pinched, str etched, or damaged.
Contact your Authorized Service Dealer .
1. Loosen the handle knobs and lift the top handle half in
an arc until the handle halves are in line and nest
together (Fig. 2).
1068
21
3
Figure 2
1. Knob (2)
2. T op handle half
3. Stops
2. Tighten the knobs securely .
3. Rotate the handle toward the rear of the lawn mower
until it snaps into the stops in the handle brackets
(Fig. 2).
Changing the Handle Height
The handle has two height settings: high and low (Fig. 3).
Choose a handle height setting that is most comfortable
for you.
1026
1
2
3
Figure 3
1. Low setting
2. High setting
3. Cable anchor
1. Squeeze the bottom handle section (both sides) inward
of f the pins.
2. Position the handle and cable anchor over the pins at
the desired height (Fig. 3).
Note: You may need to loosen and slightly move the belt
cover.
3.
Adjust the cable. Refer to Adjusting the Self-pr opel
Drive Cable on page 14.
Before Starting
Filling the Crankcase with Oil
Your Lawn-Boy lawn mower comes without oil in the
crankcase. However, your lawn mower comes with a
20 oz. (0.59 liter) bottle of oil.
Fill the engine crankcase with a maximum of 21 oz.
(0.62 liters) of SAE 30 oil. Use only a high-quality
deter gent oil that has the American Petroleum Institute
(API) “service classification” SF
, SG, SH, or SJ.
T o add oil:
1. Move the lawn mower to a level surface.

7
2. Clean around the dipstick (Fig. 4).
m-3717
1
Figure 4
1. Dipstick
3. Remove the dipstick by rotating the cap
counterclockwise 1/4 turn and pulling it out.
4. W ipe 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. 4).
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.
IMPORTANT
: Do not overfill the crankcase with oil
and run the engine; engine damage will r
esult. Drain
the excess oil until the oil level on the dipstick r eads
Full.
8. Insert the dipstick into the filler neck and rotate the
cap clockwise 1/4 turn.
Filling the Fuel T ank with
Gasoline
For best results, use clean, fresh, lead-free gasoline,
including oxygenated or reformulated gasoline, with an
octane rating of 87 or higher . T o 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. Y ou 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 mor e than
10% ethanol, pr emium gasoline, or white gas. Using
these fuels can damage the engine’ s fuel system.
IMPORTANT : Do not use gasoline that has been stor ed
since the last mowing season or longer .
DANGER
POTENTIAL HAZARD
• In certain conditions, gasoline is extr emely
flammable and highly explosive.
WHA T CAN HAPPEN
• A fir e or explosion fr om gasoline can burn you
and others and can damage pr operty.
HOW T O A V OID THE HAZARD
• Use a funnel and fill the fuel tank outdoors, in
an open area, and when the engine is cold. W ipe
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
gasoline to expand.
• Never smoke when handling gasoline, and stay
away fr om an open flame or wher e a spark may
ignite the gasoline fumes.
•Stor e gasoline in an appr oved container and
keep it out of the r each of childr en.
•
Never buy mor e than a 30-day supply of
gasoline.
DANGER
POTENTIAL HAZARD
• When fueling, under certain cir cumstances, a
static charge can develop, igniting the gasoline.
WHA T CAN HAPPEN
• A fir e or explosion fr om gasoline can burn you
and others and damage pr operty.
HOW T O A V OID THE HAZARD
• Always place gasoline containers on the gr ound
away from your vehicle befor e 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, r emove gasoline-power ed
equipment fr om the truck or trailer and r efuel
the equipment with its wheels on the r ound.
•
If this is not possible, then refuel such
equipment on a truck or trailer from a portable
container , rather than fr om a gasoline
dispenser nozzle.
• If a gasoline dispenser nozzle must be used,
keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the
fuel tank or container opening at all times until
fueling is complete.
1. Disconnect the wire from the spark plug (Fig. 5).

8
m-3711
1
Figure 5
1. Spark plug wire
2. Clean around the fuel tank cap (Fig. 6).
m-3713
1
Figure 6
1. Fuel tank cap
Use a fuel stabilizer/conditioner regularly during
operation and storage. A 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.
3.
Remove the cap from the tank (Fig. 6).
4. Fill the fuel tank with unleaded gasoline to within 1/4
to 1/2 in. (6 to 13 mm) from the top of the tank. Do
not fill into the filler neck. The gasoline must have
r oom to expand.
5. Install the fuel tank cap and wipe up any spilled
gasoline.
Operation
Each time before you mow , make sure that the self-propel
drive and the control bar operate properly . When you
release the control bar, the engine and the self-propel
drive should stop. If they do not, contact an Authorized
Service Dealer .
Controls
The starter handle, the blade control bail, and the
self-propel drive bail are on the upper handle as shown in
Figure 7.
m-3712
3
2
4
1
Figure
7
1. Starter handle
2. Self-propel drive bail
3. Blade control bail
4. Upper handle
Starting the Engine
1. Connect the wire onto the spark plug.
2. Push the primer three times, waiting two seconds
between each push (Fig. 8).
m-3714
1
Figure 8
1. Primer
Note: If the temperature is 55 _ F (13 _ C) or below , push
the primer five times, waiting two seconds between each
push.
Note: Do not use the primer to start a warm engine after a
brief shutdown. However, cool weather may require you
to prime the engine again.
3. Hold the blade control bail against the upper handle
(Fig. 7).
4. Pull the starter handle lightly until you feel resistance,
then pull it sharply (Fig. 7). Allow the rope to return to
the handle slowly .
Note: If the engine fails to start after three pulls, repeat
steps 2 through 4.

9
Stopping the Engine
Release the blade control bail (Fig. 9). Both the engine
and the blade should stop. If they do not stop properly ,
contact your Authorized Service Dealer .
1060
1
Figure 9
1. Blade control bail
Using the Self-propel Drive
1. To operate the self-propel drive, squeeze the
self-propel drive bail against the handle and hold it
(Fig. 10).
1017
1
Figure 10
1. Self-propel drive bail
Note: The maximum self-propel ground speed is fixed.
T o reduce the ground speed, increase the space between
the bail and the handle.
2. T o disengage the self-propel drive, release the
self-propel drive bail (Fig. 1 1).
1016
1
Figure 1 1
1. Self-propel drive bail
Note: The lawn mower comes with free-wheeling clutches
which make it easier to pull the lawn mower rearward. T o
disengage the clutches, you may need to push the lawn
mower forward one inch (2.5 cm) or more after you
release the self-propel drive 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.
(76 mm); and 3-1/2 inches (89 mm).
DANGER
POTENTIAL HAZARD
• Adjusting the height-of-cut levers could bring
your hands into contact with a moving blade.
WHA T CAN HAPPEN
• Contact with a r otating blade can cause serious
injury.
HOW T O A V OID THE HAZARD
• Stop the engine and wait for all movement to
stop befor e 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. 12).
1021
1
Figure 12
1. Wheel height adjustment lever
2. Release the wheel height adjustment lever and seat it
securely in the desired notch.
Note: Set all four wheels to the same height.
Operating T ips
General 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 which could be picked up or hit by the
blade and become thrown objects.
• Keep everyone, especially children and pets, away
from the area of operation.
•A void 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.

10
• Maintain a sharp blade throughout the cutting season.
Periodically file down nicks on the blade.
• Replace the blade when necessary with an original
Lawn-Boy replacement blade.
• Only mow dry grass or leaves. W et grass and leaves
tend to clump on the yard and may cause the lawn
mower to plug or the engine to stall.
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
•W et grass or leaves can cause you to slip and
contact the blade.
WHA T CAN HAPPEN
• Blade contact can seriously injure you.
HOW T O A V OID THE HAZARD
• Mow only in dry conditions.
• Clean clippings or leaves from the underside of the
lawn mower deck after each mowing. See Cleaning
the Underside of the Lawn Mower Housing on
page 12.
• Keep the engine in good running condition.
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
• Operating a lawn mower with its engine
running at a speed gr eater than the factory
setting can cause an unsafe operating condition.
WHA T CAN HAPPEN
• The lawn mower could thr ow a part of the
blade or engine into the operator ’ s or
bystander’ s ar ea and cause serious personal
injury or death.
HOW T O A V OID THE HAZARD
• Do not change the engine speed setting.
• If you suspect the engine speed is faster than
normal, contact your Authorized Service
Dealer.
• Clean the air filter frequently . Mulching stirs up more
clippings and dust which clogs the air filter and
reduces engine performance.
•T o achieve the best mulching action, set the lawn
mower cutting height so the lawn mower cuts no more
than a third of the grass blade 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
dischar ge or grass catcher . A few days later , install the
mulch plate on your lawn mower to resume mulching.
Cutting Grass
•In the summer heat, cut the grass at the 2, 2-1/2, or
3-inch (51, 64, or 76 mm) height-of-cut settings. Only
cut of f 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 (15 cm) tall, first
mow using the highest height-of-cut setting and
walking slower; then mow again at a lower setting for
best lawn appearance. If the grass is too long and
leaves clumps on top of the lawn, the lawn mower may
plug up and cause the engine to stall.
• Alternate the mowing direction. This helps disperse
clippings over the lawn for even fertilization.
If the finished lawn appearance is unsatisfactory , try one
or more of the following:
• Sharpen the blade.
•W alk at a slower pace while mowing.
• Raise the cutting height on your lawn mower .
• Cut the grass more frequently .
•
Overlap 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
height-of-cut setting.
• If there are more than 5 in. (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 mow over oak leaves, you can add lime to the
grass in the spring to reduce the acidity of the leaves.

11
Maintenance
NOTICE:T o obtain r epairs at no charge under the terms and pr ovisions of the Lawn-Boy warranty statement, an
Authorized Service Dealer must perform the service or emission contr ol part r epair or r eplacement.
Recommended Maintenance Schedule
Service Item Service Operation
Each
Use 25 Hours 50 Hours 100 Hours
Check the engine oil before each use. X
Engine Oil
Change the oil after the first two hours of operation.
Thereafter , change it every 25 hours (more
frequently in dusty conditions or in high
temperatures) or yearly. X
Housing Remove built-up grass clippings and dirt. X
Fasteners
Check the blade and the engine mounting
fasteners frequently . Keep all nuts, bolts, and
screws tight to ensure safe operation.
X
Air Filter
Clean the air filter every 25 hours or at the start of
each season. Service more frequently if operating
conditions are dusty .X
Self-propel
Drive
Clean the grass clippings and debris under the belt
cover and the drive belt.
X
Blade
Sharpen or replace the blade; maintain the blade
more frequently if its edge dulls quickly in rough or
sandy conditions.
X
Blade Brake
Check the stopping time every 50 hours or before
each mowing season. The blade must stop within
three seconds of releasing the bail; if it does not,
see an Authorized Service Dealer for repair
.X
Lubrication Grease the rear height adjustor brackets. X
Fuel System
Check for leaks and/or a deteriorating fuel hose.
Replace the fuel hose if necessary .X
Spark Plug
Clean, inspect, and gap the spark plug. Replace
the spark plug if necessary .X
Cooling System
Clean any grass clippings, debris, or dirt that clog
the engine air cooling fins and starter . Clean the
cooling system more frequently under dirty or
high-chaf f conditions.
X
Fuel Tank
Empty the fuel tank before repairs as directed or
before storage.

12
CAUTION
POTENTIAL HAZARD
• If you leave the wir e on the spark plug, someone could start the engine.
WHA T CAN HAPPEN
• Someone accidentally starting the engine could seriously injur e you or other bystanders.
HOW T O A V OID THE HAZARD
• Disconnect the wir e fr om the spark plug before you do any maintenance. Set the wir e aside
so that it does not accidentally contact the spark plug.
Checking the Engine Oil
Before you use the lawn mower, make sure that the oil
level is between the Add and the Full marks as shown on
the dipstick (Fig. 4). If the oil level is below the Add
mark, add oil. Refer to Filling the Crankcase with Oil on
page 6.
Changing the Engine Oil
Change the engine oil after the first two hours of operation
and then after every 25 operating hours or every season.
Run the engine just before changing the oil to warm the
oil. W
arm oil flow better and carries more contaminants.
Note: Change the oil more frequently when operating the
lawn mower under a heavy load or in high temperatures.
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
•T ipping the lawn mower may cause the fuel to
leak from the carbur etor or the fuel tank.
WHA T CAN HAPPEN
• Gasoline is extr emely flammable, highly
explosive and under certain conditions can
cause personal injury or pr operty damage.
HOW T O A V OID THE HAZARD
•A void fuel spills by running the engine dry or
r emoving gasoline with a hand pump; never
siphon.
1. Drain the gasoline from the fuel tank; refer to steps 1
through 4 of Emptying the Fuel T ank on page 17.
2. Drain the oil from the oil fill tube at the dipstick
(Fig. 13). Drain the oil into an appropriate container .
Recycle the used oil according to local codes.
Note: There is an oil drain plug on the bottom of the
engine visible from under the lawn mower deck. However ,
because the plug is not easily accessible, Lawn-Boy does
not recommend draining the oil from below the deck.
1067
1
Figure 13
1. Oil fill tube
3. Fill the crankcase to the Full line on the dipstick with
fresh oil. Refer to Filling the Crankcase with Oil on
page 6.
4. Check the oil level and replace the dipstick.
5. W ipe up any spilled oil.
Cleaning the Underside of the
Lawn Mower Housing
A clean lawn mower housing provides the best cutting
performance. Check for grass buildup and clean the
housing after each use.
Washing Method
1. Move the lawn mower to a flat concrete or asphalt
surface near a garden hose.
2. Start the engine.

13
3. Hold the running garden hose at handle level and
direct the water to flow on the ground just in front of
the right rear tire (Fig. 14).
1093
1
Figure
14
1. Rear right wheel
The blade will draw in water and wash out the
clippings. Let the water run until the clippings no
longer come out from under the housing.
4. Stop the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop.
5. T urn of f the garden hose.
6. Start the lawn mower and let it run for a few minutes
to dry it of f.
7.
While the engine runs, engage and disengage the
traction drive several times to dry it out.
Scraping Method
If washing does not remove all debris from under the lawn
mower , tip the housing and scrape it clean.
1. Run the engine dry or remove the fuel when the engine
is cool.
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
• Gasoline is extr emely flammable, highly
explosive and under certain conditions can
cause personal injury or pr operty damage.
WHA T CAN HAPPEN
•T ipping the lawn mower may cause the fuel to
leak from the carbur etor or the fuel tank.
HOW T O A V OID THE HAZARD
•A void fuel spills by running the engine dry or
r emoving gasoline with a hand pump; never
siphon.
2. Disconnect the wire from the spark plug (Fig. 5).
3. T ip the lawn mower onto its right side (Fig. 15).
1036
Figure 15
Note: When you tip the lawn mower onto its side, rotate
the blade as little as possible to avoid starting problems.
4. Scrape the built-up grass clippings and dirt from the
lawn mower housing with a hardwood scraper .
5. T
ip the lawn mower upright.
6. Connect the wire to the spark plug.
Cleaning the Air Filter
Clean the pre-cleaner and air filter once every season or
every 25 hours; clean them more frequently under dusty
conditions.
IMPORTANT
: Do not operate the engine without the
pr e-cleaner and air filter element; extr eme engine wear
or damage will occur .
1. T o remove the pre-cleaner and air filter , unsnap the
cover latch and remove the cover , the pre-cleaner , and
the air filter (Fig. 16).
ÎÎÎÎÎ
ÎÎÎÎÎ
ÎÎÎÎÎ
Ï
Ï
Ï
m-3715
2
3
1
Figure 16
1. Cover
2. Filter 3. Pre-cleaner
2. Wash the pre-cleaner and the air filter in laundry
deter gent or kerosene (Fig. 17).

14
m-988
Figure 17
3. Squeeze the filters to remove the excess liquid and
blot them dry with a paper towel or rag.
4. Saturate the pre-cleaner and air filter with SAE 30W
oil (Fig. 18).
m-989
Figure 18
5. Squeeze the pre-cleaner and the filter until the oil is
distributed evenly . Blot them lightly with a paper
towel to remove excess oil.
6. Replace the filters with the cleanest side facing the
carburetor.
IMPORTANT : Ensur e that the filters ar e fully seated
in the air box and do not pucker to pr event dir ect
passage of air and dirt.
Adjusting the Self-propel Drive
Cable
Whenever you change the handle height, install a new
self-propel drive cable, or if the traction drive belt slips,
adjust the self-propel drive cable.
1. Move the cable jacket held by the cable support
(Fig. 19).
1063
1
23
4
5
Figure 19
1. 1 to 1 !/2 in. (25 to 38 mm)
2. Self-propel drive bail
3. Cable jacket
4. Cable support
5. Nut
2. Loosen the nut on the cable support (Fig. 19).
3. Hold the self-propel bail 1 to 1 !/2 in. (25 to 38 mm)
from the handle (Fig. 19).
4. Pull the cable jacket down (away from bail) to remove
the slack in the cable between the bail and the cable
support.
5. T ighten the nut on the cable support.
6. Release the bail and ensure that the cable is loose.
Note: The cable must be loose with the bail in the
released position. Otherwise, the lawn mower may creep
forward when you disengage the bail.
Lubricating the Self-propel
Drive
1. Wipe the grease fittings on the rear wheel height
adjustment levers with a clean rag (Fig. 20).
1018
1
Figure
20
1. Grease fittings
2. Install a grease gun onto each fitting in turn and gently
apply one or two pumps of #2 multi-purpose lithium
grease to each.
IMPORTANT : Excess gr ease may pr event the wheel
clutch fr om pr operly operating.

15
Cleaning the Self-propel Drive
Under certain conditions, clippings can collect under the
belt drive cover and in the pulley groove. This can cause
the belt to slip, the self-propel drive to lose power , or the
the self-propel drive not to disengage.
Clean grass clippings and debris from under the belt cover
every 25 hours of operation.
1. Remove the screw from the belt cover and slide the
belt cover to the rear, unhooking the tab on the front of
the cover from the deck opening (Fig. 21).
1040
1 2
Figure 21
1. Belt cover 2. Tab
2. Tilt the cover up to the side and remove debris from
under the cover and pulley groove (Fig. 21).
3. Reverse the procedure to install belt cover .
Maintaining the Blade
A straight, sharp blade provides maximum cutting
performance. Regularly inspect and sharpen the blade.
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
• The blade is sharp.
WHA T CAN HAPPEN
• Contact with a sharp blade can cause serious
personal injury .
HOW T O A V OID THE HAZARD
•W ear gloves or wrap the sharp edges of the
blade with a rag.
1. Disconnect the wire from the spark plug (Fig. 5).
2. T ip the lawn mower onto its right side (Fig. 15).
Inspecting the Blade
Carefully examine the blade for sharpness and wear ,
especially where the flat and the curved parts meet
(Fig. 22A). 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. 22B and 22C), replace the
blade; refer to Removing the Blade on page 15.
270
1
1
1
2
3
4
A
B
C
Figure
22
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
POTENTIAL HAZARD
• A worn or damaged blade can br eak and a
piece of the blade could be thr own into the
operator’ s or bystander ’ s ar ea.
WHA T CAN HAPPEN
• A thr own piece of the blade could cause serious
personal injury or death to the operator or
bystanders.
HOW T O A V OID THE HAZARD
• Inspect the blade periodically for wear or
damage.
•
Replace a worn or damaged blade.
Removing the Blade
1. Remove the blade nut and the mulching fan (Fig. 23).

16
4
23
1
M–2909
Figure 23
1. Blade nut
2. Mulching fan
3. Blade
4.
Blade driver
2. Remove the blade from the blade driver (Fig. 23).
3. Examine the mulch fan for worn or bent blades.
Replace it if necessary .
4.
Examine the blade driver for bent or sheared drive
lugs. Replace it if necessary .
Sharpening the Blade
Use a file to sharpen the top side of the blade and
maintain the original cutting angle (Fig. 24).
153
1
Figure 24
1. Sharpen at this angle only
Note: The blade will remain balanced if you remove the
same amount of material from both cutting edges.
Note: Do not file or grind the blade more than 5 in. (127
mm) from the outside ends and no less than 2 in. (51 mm)
from the trailing edge as shown in Figure 25.
990
2”
(51 mm)
5”
(127 mm)
Figure 25
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. 26).
1007
Figure 26
Note: You can also check the balance by using a
commercially manufactured blade balancer .
2.
If either end of the blade rotates downward, 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 is installed on the
crankshaft. See Figure 23.
2. Install the blade over the lugs of the blade driver with
the curved ends toward the housing (Fig. 23).
3. Install the mulch fan into the blade recess (Fig. 23).
4. Secure the blade with the blade nut (Fig. 27)
Figure 27
5. Torque the blade nut to 47 ft-lb (63 N m).
Note: Replace the blade nut after installing and removing
the blade four times. The blade nut’ s locking power
diminishes and the blade nut could loosen if you do not
replace it.
6. 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.
Replace the spark plug once a season or clean it every 100
hours, whichever occurs first. Use a Champion RJ19LM
spark plug or equivalent.
1. Disconnect the wire from the spark plug (Fig. 5).

17
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 spark plug for cracks and
damaged or worn electrodes. Replace it if necessary .
4.
Set the spark plug gap at .030 inch (.76 mm) (Fig. 28).
986
.030 in.
(.76 mm)
Figure 28
5. Install the spark plug by hand; then torque it to
180 in-lb (15 ft-lb or 20 N ⋅ m) (Fig. 5).
6. Connect the wire to the spark plug.
Emptying the Fuel T ank
1. Stop the engine and wait for it to cool down.
2. Disconnect the wire from the spark plug (Fig. 5).
3. Remove the cap from the fuel tank (Fig. 6).
4. Use a hand pump to syphon the fuel 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 make sure that all the
gasoline is out of the carburetor .
Troubleshooting
Lawn-Boy designed and built your lawn mower for trouble-free operation. Check the following components and items
carefully . If a problem continues, see your Authorized Service Dealer .
PROBLEM CORRECTIVE
ACTION
Engine will not start 1. Fill the fuel tank with fresh gasoline.
2. Press the primer three times.
3. Spark plug
• Connect the spark plug wire.
• Clean the spark plug, check the spark plug gap, and replace
the spark plug if it is damaged.
Engine starts hard or loses power
1. Drain and fill the fuel tank with fresh gasoline.
g
2. Clean the gasoline cap vent hole.
3. Clean the air filter .
4. Clean the lawn mower discharge chute.
5. Clean the underside of the lawn mower deck.
6. Clean the spark plug, check the spark plug gap, and replace
the spark plug if it is damaged.
7. Check the engine oil.
Engine runs rough
1. Connect the spark plug wire.
gg
2. Clean the spark plug, check the spark plug gap, and replace
the spark plug if it is damaged.
3. Clean the air filter .

18
PROBLEM CORRECTIVE ACTION
Lawn mower or engine vibrates
il
1. Balance the blade.
g
excessively 2. T
ighten the blade mounting nut.
3. Clean the lawn mower discharge chute.
4. Clean the underside of the lawn mower deck.
5. T ighten the engine mounting bolts.
Uneven cutting pattern 1. Place all four wheels at the same height.
2. Sharpen and balance the blade.
3. Change the mowing pattern.
4. Clean the underside of lawn mower deck.
Discharge chute plugs 1. Raise the cutting height.
2. Allow the grass to dry before mowing.
3. Clean the underside of lawn mower deck.
Lawn Mower will not self-propel 1. Adjust the self-propel drive cable.
2. Clean the debris under the belt cover .
Storage
To prepare the lawn mower for of f-season storage,
perform the recommended maintenance procedures.
Refer to Maintenance on page 1 1.
Store the lawn mower in a cool, dry place. Cover the lawn
mower to keep it clean and protected.
Preparing the Fuel System
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
• Gasoline can vaporize if you stor e it over long
periods of time.
WHA T CAN HAPPEN
•V aporized gasoline can explode if it comes into
contact with an open flame.
HOW T O A V OID THE HAZARD
• Do not stor e gasoline over long periods of time.
• Do not store the lawn mower with gasoline in
the fuel tank or the carbur etor in an enclosur e
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.
1. Run the lawn mower until the engine stops from
running out of fuel.
2. Prime the engine and start it again.
3. Allow the engine to run until it stops. When you can
no longer start the engine, it is suf
ficiently dry .
Preparing the Engine
1. Remove the spark plug.
2. Using an oil can, add about one tablespoon of oil
through the spark plug hole (Fig. 29).
1009
Figure 29
3. Slowly rotate the engine several times, using the
starter rope, to distribute the oil (Fig. 7).
4. 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 12.
2. Clean any dirt and chaf f from the cylinder , cylinder
head fins, and blower housing.

19
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 Blade on page 15.
5. T ighten all nuts, bolts, and screws.
6. Lubricate the wheels. Refer to Lubricating the
Self-pr opel Drive on page 14.
7. T ouch up all rusted or chipped paint surfaces with
paint available from an Authorized Service Dealer .
Folding the Handle
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
• Folding or unfolding the handle impr operly can
pinch, stretch, or damage one or mor e of the
cables.
WHA T CAN HAPPEN
• Any pinched, str etched, or damaged cable may
cause an operational failur e that r esults in an
unsafe operating condition.
HOW T O A V OID THE HAZARD
• Handle the cables with car e when folding or
unfolding the handle.
• Do not use the lawn mower if one or mor e of
the cables ar e pinched, str etched, or damaged.
Contact your Authorized Service Dealer .
1. Squeeze the bottom handle sections together and slide
them past the stops on the handle brackets (Fig. 30).
1039
Figure 30
2. Rotate the handle toward the front of the lawn mower
(Fig. 31).
IMPORTANT : Fold the handle only as illustrated in
Figur e 31. If you fold the handle in the opposite
dir ection, you will damage the contr ol cables.
3. Loosen the knobs that secure the top handle section to
the bottom section and fold the top handle section
back toward the rear of the lawn mower into the
storage position (Fig. 31).
1068
Figure 31
Removing from Storage
1. Carefully unfold the handle. Refer to the Unfolding the
Handle on page 6.
2. Check and tighten all fasteners.
3. Remove the spark plug (Fig. 5) and spin the engine
rapidly using the starter to blow excess oil from the
cylinder.
4.
Clean the spark plug or replace it if it is cracked,
broken, or the electrodes are worn.
5. Install the spark plug and torque it to 180 in-lb
(15 ft-lb or 20 N m).
6.
Perform the recommended maintenance procedures.
Refer to Maintenance on page 1 1.
7. Fill the fuel tank (Fig. 6) with fresh, clean gasoline.
8. Check the engine oil level.
9. Connect the wire to the spark plug (Fig. 5).
Accessories
Y our lawn mower may include accessories available from
your Authorized Service Dealer . For proper installation of
these accessories, follow these instructions.

20
Installing a Side Grass Catcher
WARNING
POTENTIAL HAZARD
• An uncover ed discharge opening will allow the
lawn mower to thr ow objects in the operator ’s
or bystander ’ s dir ection. Also, contact with the
blade could occur .
WHA T CAN HAPPEN
•Thr own objects or blade contact can cause
serious injury .
HOW T O A V OID THE HAZARD
• Never operate the lawn mower unless you
install a cover plate, a mulch plate, or a grass
chute and catcher .
CAUTION
POTENTIAL HAZARD
• If you leave the wir e on the spark plug,
someone could start the engine.
WHA T CAN HAPPEN
• Someone accidentally starting the engine could
seriously injur e you or other bystanders.
HOW T O A V OID THE HAZARD
• Disconnect the wir e fr om the spark plug befor e
you do any maintenance. Set the wir e aside so
that it does not accidentally contact the spark
plug.
1. Stop the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop.
2. Disconnect the wire from the spark plug (Fig. 5).
3. Remove the wing screw that fastens the cover plate to
the housing (Fig. 32).
996
1
2
Figure 32
1. Cover or mulch plate 2. Wing screw
Note: Y ou do not need to loosen or remove the two
shoulder bolts on the housing that protrude through the
slotted holes in the cover or mulch plate (Fig. 33). The
cover or mulch plate moves over the shoulder bolt heads.
995
1
Figure
33
1. Shoulder bolts
4. Slide the cover or mulch plate counterclockwise to
remove it.
Installing the Grass Chute
1. Place the front corner of the chute baf fle into the deck
opening (Fig. 34).
955
2
3
1
Figure 34
1. Chute baf fle
2.
Front deck baf fle 3. T
oe guard
2. Rotate the chute counterclockwise and push it down
into the deck opening.
Note: The chute baf fle must go behind the front deck
baf fle and between the blade and the toe guard to prevent
it from contacting the blade (Fig. 34).
Note: Y ou do not need to loosen or remove the two
shoulder bolts on the housing that protrude through the
slotted holes in the chute assembly (Fig. 33).
3. Move the chute assembly over the shoulder bolts
(Fig. 35).