Maruyama MHM480 2023 User manual

19” Hover Mower
Operator’s Manual
Model MHM480
2023
Maruyama U.S. | 4770 Mercantile Dr. Suite 100 | Fort Worth, TX | 76137

Hover Mower Operator’s Manual
Maruyama U.S. | 4770 Mercantile Dr. Suite 100 | Fort Worth, TX | 76137
Handle stand
Recoil Starter
Fuel Cap
Choke / primer bulb
Air filter
Introduction
Read this information carefully to learn how to operate and
maintain your product properly and to avoid injury and
product damage. You are responsible for operating the
product properly and safely.
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.
Important: This engine is not equipped with a spark
arrester. It is a violation of California Public Resource
Code Section 4442 to use or operate the 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.
You may contact Maruyama U.S. directly for product and
accessory information, help finding a dealer, or help
registering your product. Whenever you need service,
genuine Maruyama parts, or additional information, please
contact your local Maruyama dealer, or Customer Service
and have the model and serial number of your product
ready. They are located on the decal on the rear of the
unit as shown in this photo:
Write the numbers in the following space provided.
Model Number:
Serial Number:
You may complete and mail the enclosed product
registration card or you can register on-line at:
www.maruyama-us.com
Should you require warranty service, bring a copy of your
sales receipt along with your product to your Maruyama
authorized servicing dealer.
Carton Contents:
-Maruyama Hover Mower
-Maruyama Product Registration Card
-Engine Owner’s Manual / Emission System Warranty
-Lower Handle Assembly (with handle stand)
-Upper Handle Assembly (including throttle cable,
engine stop lever, and on/off switch)
Key Components
The image below identifies key components of the Hover
Mower so take the time to familiarize yourself with them and
their function.
On / Off
Switch
Engine Stop
Lever
Throttle cable

Hover Mower Operator’s Manual
Maruyama U.S. | 4770 Mercantile Dr. Suite 100 | Fort Worth, TX | 76137
Assembly and Setup
The unit has been carefully pre-assembled with
adjustments and quality inspections performed
by a team of trained technicians who take great
pride in their work. For packaging and
shipment, there are components that need
installation. When instructions refer to the
left or right side of the unit, it means as
standing behind the unit at normal
operation position.
Tools Required
-Regular or needle-nose pliers
-Medium adjustable wrench, and a ½ inch
wrench
-Two 10mm wrenches
-4mm Allen wrench
1. Insert the lower handle section into the
mounting brackets on each side of the deck
– noting that the handle stand lever will be
on the right side of the unit as shown in the
photos below:
2. Secure the handle by inserting the pins on
each side and securing with the spring cotter pin.
Note: The spring cotter pin will be on the inside,
closest to the engine.
3. Attach the upper handle section to the lower
handle section – with the stop lever facing
forward – using the bolts and knobs as
shown:
4. Verify the engine stop lever is properly
installed, so it pivots upward completely
against the handle when squeezed and
returns downward when released:
5. Install the on/off switch onto the RIGHT side
of the handle (in the SECOND hole below the
stop lever):

Hover Mower Operator’s Manual
Maruyama U.S. | 4770 Mercantile Dr. Suite 100 | Fort Worth, TX | 76137
Assembly and Set up (continued)
6. Attach the throttle spring to the hole of the
stop lever on the LEFT side of the handle,
then install the cable adjust bracket onto
the handle using the SECOND hole below
the stop lever:
7. The throttle cable MUST be adjusted after
installation.
Slide the rubber dust cap off the adjustment
barrel and loosen the two 10mm lock nuts.
Set bracket and lock nuts at approximately
the middle of the adjustment barrel.
There should be a small amount of slack in
the cable when the Engine Stop Lever is
released.
If there is no slack in the cable when the
Engine Stop Lever is released, adjust the
cable tension by loosening the 10mm nuts,
and moving the cable out, away from the
engine.
Proper adjustment of the cable will allow for full
throttle operation when the Engine Stop Lever is
in the Run position. The engine will turn off when
the Engine Stop Handle is released.
When adjustment is complete, put the rubber
dust cap back in place on the adjustment barrel.
Adjustment Barrel
Bracket and 10mm nuts
IN
Out

Hover Mower Operator’s Manual
Maruyama U.S. | 4770 Mercantile Dr. Suite 100 | Fort Worth, TX | 76137
8. Add the plastic tubing to cover the on / off
switch wires before connecting the ends.
Then use the included tie straps to connect
the wires to the handles as shown:
Safety Instructions
The following safety alert symbols are used
in these instructions in conjunction with
important safety messages related to the
operation of the unit and potential hazards.
As you familiarize yourself with the various
features and functionality of this mower,
please take note of the subjects and
specific instructions that include these
images…
…WILL cause serious or fatal injury if the
instructions are not followed.
…CAN cause serious or fatal injury if the
instructions are not followed.
Safety Labels
On the unit itself, there are additional labels that
identify important safety issues. The following
one refers to the hazards of the cutting blades:
The following label identifies important
instructions related to the operation of the
mower:

Hover Mower Operator’s Manual
Maruyama U.S. | 4770 Mercantile Dr. Suite 100 | Fort Worth, TX | 76137
Safety Precautions and Training
Understand the operation of all controls and
learn how to stop the engine and mower
quickly in case of emergency. Make sure the
operator receives adequate instruction
before operating this unit.
When instructions refer to the left or right
side of the unit, it means as if the operator is
standing behind at the normal operation
position.
1. Read all information contained in this
manual and the engine manual carefully. Be
thoroughly familiar with the controls and
proper use of the equipment.
2. Always use proper PPE including at
minimum safety glasses, hearing
protection, and proper footwear.
3. Never allow children to operate mower.
4. Never operate this unit when you are tired, ill
or under the influence of alcohol, drugs or
medication.
5. Never try to mow across excessively steep
terrain. On inclines, keep the unit in front /
below and maneuver in a pendulum motion.
6. Keep area of operation clear of all
persons, particularly small children
and pets.
7. Never operate the mower without proper
guards / shields in place.
8. Thoroughly train anyone using the mower.
Make sure all mower operators know the
safety, operating and maintenance
procedures.
9. Never leave the mower unattended with the
engine running.
10. Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light.
11. Always be sure of your footing. Keep a firm
hold on the handle and never run with the
unit.
12. Do not operate mower when barefoot or
wearing open sandals. Always wear
substantial footwear and pants or slacks
that cover your legs when operating
mower.
13. Material may ricochet back toward the
operator. Do not operate over gravel
surfaces.
Preparation and Inspection
1. Thoroughly inspect the area where mower is
to be used and remove all stones, sticks, wire,
bones and other foreign objects which might
be thrown. Never operate the unit over gravel.
2. Check fuel before starting engine. Do not
fill gasoline tank indoors or when engine is
running. Wait until engine has been
allowed to cool for several minutes. Clean
off any spilled gasoline before starting
engine.
3. Make sure the unit is on a flat level
surface before starting engine.
4. Inspect the unit to verify the controls, safety
switches, and handles are assembled properly.
Do not operate unless they are functioning
properly.
5. If the machine should start to vibrate
abnormally, stop the engine, and check
for the cause immediately.
6. Use care when loading or unloading the
machine into a trailer or truck.
7. Never operate machine in an enclosed area.
8. Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be
sure the equipment is in safe
working condition.
9. Never tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operation regularly.
10. Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other
debris build-up – especially the recoil starter
area of the engine. Clean up oil or fuel
spillage and remove any fuel-soaked debris.
Allow machine to cool before storing in an
enclosed space.
11. Never make any adjustments or repairs
with the engine running. Disconnect the
spark plug wire to prevent unintended
starting.
12. Do not change the engine throttle setting
or over- speed the engine.
13. Maintain or replace safety and instruction
labels, as necessary.
14. 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 the gasoline vapor has
dissipated.
15. Before using, always visually inspect to see
that the blade(s), bolts, and spacers are not
worn or damaged. Replace a worn or
damaged blade(s).

Hover Mower Operator’s Manual
Maruyama U.S. | 4770 Mercantile Dr. Suite 100 | Fort Worth, TX | 76137
16. Stop the engine if the machine must be tilted for
transportation when crossing surfaces other
than grass, and when transporting the machine
to and from the area to be mowed.
Engine Operation
IMPORTANT – THIS IS A 2-STROKE ENGINE
THAT REQUIRES MIXED FUEL OF
GASOLINE AND 2- STROKE OIL
FOMULATED FOR USE IN HIGH-
PERFORMANCE AIR-COOLED ENGINES. Oil
must be rated JASO-FD or better.
Review the complete operation and safety
instructions provided in the Maruyama
engine owner’s manual – which is included
in the information packet of
Any service, warranty, or replacement part
needs should be directed to a Maruyama
Authorized Service Dealer.
More information can be found at:
www.maruyama-us.com
Operating Controls
Make sure the handle sections are
properly tightened in the upright
position before starting the engine
and do not operate the unit if the
engine stop lever is damaged or not
functioning correctly.
1. Engine Stop Lever
This lever allows the engine to start and run
at its optimum speed. It will also stop the
engine and the rotation of the cutting blades
when released:
2. Engine On/Off Switch / Throttle Cable
The switch is connected to the ignition
system with on and off positions. The throttle
is set up to provide the optimum engine
speed when the stop lever is fully squeezed
against the handle – this can be adjusted
using the cable adjustment:

Hover Mower Operator’s Manual
Maruyama U.S. | 4770 Mercantile Dr. Suite 100 | Fort Worth, TX | 76137
Mower Operation
Make sure the ground is flat and clear of
debris and do not attempt to start on a
sloped or inclined surface. Make sure the
fuel tank cap is properly installed and
tightened.
Cold Starting
a. Set the on/off switch to “ON”.
b. Press the primer bulb multiple times
until fuel can be seen flowing through
the return line to the tank (clear flow
with no bubbles).
c. Move the choke lever to the “CLOSE”
position.
d. While standing on the right side of the
unit, place your foot on the edge of the
deck while simultaneously gripping the
engine starter handle and the engine
stop lever against the handle to hold
the unit before pulling the recoil starter:
e. Pull the starter rope out slowly about
6-8” before beginning the full pulling
motion and do not pull it all the way
out. After the engine has started,
move the choke lever to the OPEN
position, then carefully move behind
the unit while continuing to hold the
stop lever against the handle and
adjusting your grip position using
both hands.
Always maintain a firm grip on the handle
and engine stop lever and keep the unit in
front of you. If the engine does not start
after 4-5 pulls, make sure the on/off switch
is on and repeat the priming steps. If
mower should vibrate abnormally,
immeadiately stop the engine and check for
the cause. Vibration is generally a sign of
an issue with the impeller fan or cutting
blade underneath the deck.
Mowing
Always use both hands when operating
the unit. Steep slopes are a major factor
related to slip and fall accidents, which
can result in severe injury.
Operation onall slopes requires extra
caution. Never operate the mower at an
angle above your position. If you feel
uneasy on a slope, do not mow it. Do not
pull the unit directly backwards when
mowing.
• Always keep the unit below your position
moving it with side-to-side motion like a
pendulum. 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 wet grass on excessively
steep slopes. Poor footing could cause a
slip and fall accident.

Hover Mower Operator’s Manual
Maruyama U.S. | 4770 Mercantile Dr. Suite 100 | Fort Worth, TX | 76137
Mowing (continued)
• Take extra caution near drop-offs,
ditches, or embankments. Wear
shoes with traction as you could lose
your footing or balance.
• When cutting steeper inclines from the
top of the slope and a longer reach is
needed, never tie a rope to the unit. Use
the handle extension kit option (part#
846000)
If striking a foreign object, stop the engine,
remove wire from spark plug, thoroughly
inspect mower for damage. Repair damage
before restarting engine. Watch out for traffic
when working near roadways.
For best performance, install new blades
before each cutting season begins.
Stop the mower and allow the engine to
cool before making inspections or
adjustments, and when transporting. If
the engine does not stop, move the
CHOKE lever to the starting (closed)
position. Have the unit immediately
inspected by an Authorized Maruyama
Servicing Dealer.
Changing blade / Cutting Height
Adjustment
The unit’s cutting height is adjusted by
removing the cutting blade and placing the
spacers on either side:
Wear quality leather work gloves when
changing blades or adjusting the cutting
height. Mowing blades and impeller fan
edges can be sharp!
Tri Blade Bar Blade
Loosen and remove center bolt to
disassemble the components. Placing all the
spacers above the blade will provide the
lowest cutting height; placing all the spacers
below will provide the highest cutting height.
Optional Bar blade kit part# 845998
IMPORTANT! Always install the tri-blade
assembly with flail blade mounting nuts
facing upward (toward impeller / engine). The
flail blade lock nuts should be inspected
before reinstallation and replaced as
necessary.
The mounting components: hub, spacers, tri-
blade assembly / bar blade and flange, must
be installed, aligned, and seated properly
before tightening the bolt.

Hover Mower Operator’s Manual
Maruyama U.S. | 4770 Mercantile Dr. Suite 100 | Fort Worth, TX | 76137
Mower Maintenance
The following maintenance topics are
general practices that owners can do to
keep the mower in good working condition.
For any service or repair issues beyond
these, it is recommended that the unit be
inspected by an Authorized Maruyama
Dealer.
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Operating in
extreme conditions may require more
frequent service intervals. Engine
components may become dirty or plugged
when operating in extreme heat, dust or
other severe conditions.
DAILY INSPECTION FOR
COMMERCIAL USE EVERY 8 HOURS
FOR NON-COMMERCIAL USE
1. Check engine oil level and air cleaner per the
engine manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Inspect the cutting blades for damage and
movement – NOTE: Blades are reversible
but should be replaced if significant wear or
damage exists.
3. Use only genuine Maruyama replacement
parts Do not operate the unit without tri-
blades or bar blades properly installed.
4. Remove debris and grass from the engine
mounting base area and the engine air intake
– which is part of the recoil starter.
5. Check the impeller and mower deck for
cracks or damage.
6. Check the tightness of the handle mounts.
7. Clean excess grass buildup from the
underside of the deck.
Illustrated Parts List is available at:
www.maruyama-us.com
Parts available through Authorized Maruyama
Dealers.
Optional wheel kit part# 845999
Handle extension kit part# 846000
Cutting height lift kit part# 845996

Hover Mower Operator’s Manual
Maruyama U.S. | 4770 Mercantile Dr. Suite 100 | Fort Worth, TX | 76137
Maruyama Limited Warranty Statement
All Maruyama products are warranted to the original purchaser to be free from defects in material and workmanship
from the date of purchase for the time periods listed as follows:
Non-engine components: (including but not limited to: plastic deck, blade mounting components, handles, and
optional accessories) 1 year commercial use / 2 year residential use warranty.
Engine and control components as follows:
Lifetime for solid steel driveshaft and ignition coils
5 Years for qualified IRON 5-YR™ commercial, institutional, or industrial use. (With purchase and use of Maruyama
Blue Ultra-Shield oil)
2 years for commercial or residential use with competitors’ JASO-FD or ISO-LEGD rated oil.
90 days for rental use
Engine – Refer to engine manufacturer’s warranty statement. Only Maruyama engines are covered by this
limited warranty statement.
Any part of a Maruyama product found to be defective within the applicable warranty period shall, at Maruyama’s
option, be repaired or replaced without charge. Warranty consideration is obtained by delivering any Maruyama
product believed to be defective to an Authorized Maruyama Service Dealer within the applicable warranty period.
EMISSION-RELATED PARTS WARRANTY: In addition to the above coverage, Maruyama Mfg. Co., Inc. will repair
or replace, free of charge, for the original purchaser and each subsequent purchaser any emission related part or
parts found to be defective in material and workmanship for two (2) years from the original retail delivery date.
Emission related parts are the carburetor assembly, the ignition coil assembly, the ignition rotor, the spark plug,
the catalytic converter, and the fuel tank. Any replacement part that is equivalent in performance and durability
may be used in non-warranty maintenance or repairs, and shall not reduce the warranty obligations of Maruyama
Mfg. Co., Inc.
This warranty does not cover the following:
1. Maintenance items (excluding defects in materials and workmanship) including hoses, spark plugs, starter
rope, air and fuel filters, clutch shoes, vibration isolators, throttle cables, and all cutting attachments.
2. Extra expenses including shipping and handling, travel, payment for lost time or pay and for any
inconvenience and storage.
3. Alterations or modifications including aftermarket parts not authorized by Maruyama.
4. Wear, accident, abuse, neglect, misuse, negligence, improper fuels, lubricants, fuel mixtures (when
applicable), or failure to operate or maintain the product in accordance with instructions approved by
Maruyama.
Repair or replacement as provided under this warranty is the exclusive remedy of the consumer. Maruyama
shall not be liable for any incidental or consequential damages for breach of any express or implied warranty
on these products except to the extent prohibited by law. Any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness
for a particular purpose on these products is limited in duration to the warranty period as defined in the limited
warranty statement. Maruyama reserves the right to change or improve the design on the product without
notice and does not assume obligation to update previously manufactured products. This warranty provides
you with specific legal rights which may vary from state to state. It is the Owners and Dealers responsibility to
make sure the Product is properly registered with Maruyama U.S., Inc. Proof of purchase and registration will
be required to obtain warranty service.
"Not for use outside of the US and Canada"