MTD Yard Machines 650 Series User manual

Leaf Blowers
Model Series 650
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
IMPORTANT: READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY
MTD PRODUCTS INC. P.O. BOX 368022 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-9722
Warning: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-
covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting
applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.
In the State ofCalifornia the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have
similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized
service dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 368022 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-9722.
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
FORM NO.
770-10191B.fm
(2/01)

2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Content Page
Important Safe Operation Practices...................................................................3
Assembling Your Leaf Blower............................................................................5
Operating Your Leaf Blower...............................................................................6
Maintaining Your Leaf Blower ............................................................................7
Troubleshooting.................................................................................................7
Parts List............................................................................................................14
FINDING MODEL NUMBER
This Operator’s Manual is an important part of your new leaf blower. It will help you assemble, prepare and
maintain the unit for best performance. Please read and understand what it says.
Before you start assembling your new equipment,please locate the model plate on the
equipment and copy the information from it in the space provided below. The information on
the model plate is very important if you need help from our Customer Support Department or
an authorized dealer.
• You can locate the model number by looking down at the rear of the leaf blower. A sample model
plate is explained below. For future reference, please copy the model number and the serial number
of the equipment in the space below.
CALLING CUSTOMER SUPPORT
If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation or
maintenance of this unit, please call the Customer Support Department.
Call 1- (330) 220-4MTD (4683) or 1- (800)-800-7310 to reach a Customer Support
representative. Please have your unit’s model number and serial number ready when you
call. See previous section to locate this information. You will be asked to enter the serial
number in order to process your call.
Copy the model number here:
Copy the serial number here:
(Model Number) (Serial Number)
MTD PRODUCTS INC
CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136
For more details about this unit, visit our website at www.mtdproducts.com

3
SECTION 1: IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES
WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could
endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in
this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may
result in personal injury. When you see this symbol - heed its warning.
WARNING: Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle
components contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer
and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
DANGER:This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this
manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can
result in serious injury. This 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
1. Read this operator’s manual carefully in its entirety
before attemptingto assemble this machine. Read,
understand, and follow all instructions onthe machine
and in the manual(s) before operation. Be completely
familiar with the controls and the proper use of the
machine before operating it. Keep this manual in a safe
place for future and regular reference and for ordering
replacement parts.
2. Your leafblower is a powerful tool, not a plaything.
Therefore,exercise extreme caution at all times. Your
unit has been designed to perform one job; to blow
leaves. Do not use it for any other purpose.
3. Never allow children under 14to operate the unit.
Children 14 years and older should only operate under
close parental supervision. Only responsible individuals
who are familiar with these rules of safe operation should
be allowed to use your unit.
4. Keep the area of operation clear of all persons,
particularly small children and pets. Stop the engine
when they are in the vicinity of the unit.
5. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during
operation and while performing an adjustment or repair,
to protect eyes from debris or foreign objects that may be
thrown from machine.
6. Wear close fitting slacks and shirt. Shirt and slacks that
cover the arms and legsare recommended. Donot wear
loose fitting clothes or jewelry and secure hair so it is
above shoulder length. They can be caughtinmoving
parts.
7. Do notoperatethe unit while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
8. Never place your hands or any part of your body or
clothing near rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge
openingatalltimes. Never insert your hands, fingers,
feet, or any other part of your body or clothing into the
discharge or air intake openings as the rotating impeller
inside the housing can cause serious injury.
9. Never operate unit without directional discharge chute
and plastic impeller guard properly affixed tounit. These
devices shieldthe operatorfrom accidental contact with
the rotating impeller.
10. Keep all guards and safety devices in place and
operating properly.
11. Exercisecautionwhenoperatingblower.Donotallowthe
discharge to point in the direction of bystanders or pets.
12. If your machine should start making an unusual noise or
vibration, immediately stop the engine, disconnect the
spark plug wire and move the wire away from the spark
plug. Allow the machine to stop and take the following
steps:
a. Inspect for damage.
b. Repair or replace any damaged parts.
c. Check for any loose parts andtighten to assure
continued safe operation.
13. Mufflerandenginebecomehotandcancauseaburn.Do
not touch.
14. Do not allow leaves or other debris to build up on
engine’s muffler. The debris could ignite and cause a fire.
15. Do notoperateengine if air cleaner or cover over
carburetor air intake is removed, except for adjustment.
Removal of such parts could create a fire hazard.
16. Only use accessories approved for this machine by the
manufacturer. Read, understand, and follow all
instructions provided with the approved accessory.
17. Only operate unit in good daylight. Do not operate unit at
night or in dark areas where your vision may be impaired.
18. If situations occur which are not covered by this manual,
use care and good judgment. Contact your dealer for
assistance.
Children
Tragic accidents can occur if the operatorisnot alert to the
presence of small children. Children are often attracted tothe
blowing activity. Never assume that children will remain
whereyou last saw them.
1. Keep children out of the work area and under the
watchful eye of a responsible adult other than the
operator.
2. Be alert and turn the unit off if a child enters the area.
3. Never allow children under the age of 14to operate the
leaf blower.

4
Service
1. Use extreme care in handling gasoline and other fuels.
They are extremely flammable and the vapors are
explosive.
2. Store fuel and oil in approved containers,away from heat
and open flame, and out of the reach of children.
3. Check and add fuel before starting the engine. Never
remove gas capor add fuel while the engine is running.
Allow engine to cool at least two minutesbefore refueling.
4. Replace gasoline cap securely and wipe off any spilled
gasoline before starting the engine as it may cause a fire
or explosion.
5. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources
of ignition.
6. Never refuel unit indoors because flammable vapors will
accumulate in the area.
7. Never store the machine or fuel container inside where
there is an open flame or spark such as a gas hot water
heater, clothes dryer or furnace.
8. Never run your machine in an enclosed area as the
exhaust from the engine contains carbon monoxide,
whichis an odorless, tasteless anddeadly poisonous
gas.
9. To reduce fire hazard, keep engine and muffler free of
leaves, grass, and other debris build-up.
10. Clean up fuel and oil spillage. Allow unit to cool at least 5
minutes before storing.
11. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain
the impeller and all moving parts have stopped.
Disconnect the spark plugwireand keep wire away from
spark plug to prevent accidental starting. Do not use
flammable solutions to clean air filter.
12. Keep allnuts, bolts, and screws tightto be sure the
equipment is in safe working condition.
13. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly.
14. Do not alter or tamper with the engine’s governor setting.
The governor controls the maximum safe operating
speed of the engine. Overspeeding the engine is
dangerous and will cause damage to the engine and to
other moving parts of the machine.
WARNING - YOUR RESPONSIBILITY: Restrict theuse of thispower machineto persons who read,
understand and follow the warningsand instructions inthis manual and onthe machine.
NOTE: Not all safety labels shown may apply to your leaf blower.
WARNING
REVOLVING BLADES-KEEP
HANDS AWAY FROM ALL
OPENINGS. DO NOT REMOVE
BLOWER EXHAUST OR STAND
IN FRONT OF DISCHARGE
AREA WHILE ENGINE IS
RUNNING. S30003
SAFETY
GLASSES
SHOULD BE
WORN 2542

5
SECTION 2: ASSEMBLING YOUR LEAF BLOWER
IMPORTANT: This unit is shipped without gasoline or oil
in the engine. Be certain to service engine with gasoline
and oil as instructed in the separate engine manual
before operating your unit.
NOTE: Reference to right or left hand side of the leaf
blower is observed from the operating position.
Removing Unit FromCarton
•Remove staples, break glue on top flaps, or cut
tape at carton end and peel along top flap to open
carton.
•Remove loose parts if included with unit (i.e.,
operator’s manual, etc.)
•Cut alongcorners,lay cartondown flat,and remove
packing material.
•Roll or slide unit out of carton and check carton
thoroughly for loose parts.
Loose Parts In Carton
•Upper Handle
•Directional Discharge
•Hardware Pack
•Operator’s Manual
Hardware Pack
This leaf blower is shipped with the following loose
parts in the hardware pack:
HardwareA
•Curved Head Bolts (710-1174)
•Saddle Washers (736-0451)
•Handle Knobs (720-0241)
HardwareB
•Hex Sems Bolts (710-0259)
Disconnecting Spark Plug Wire
WARNING: Before setting up your leaf
blower, disconnect the spark plug wire
from the spark plug and ground against
the engine.
Attaching The Upper Handle (Hardware A)
•Place the upper over the lower handle, aligning the
holes in the upper handle with the middle holes in
the lower handle. See Figure 2.
•Secure withthecurved headbolts, saddlewashers,
and handle knobs.
Figure 1
Attaching The Directional Discharge
(Hardware B)
•Slip end of directional discharge over chute
opening and secure with the hex sems bolts.
See Figure 2.
Figure 2
Upper Handle
Lower Handle
Handle Knob
Saddle Washer
Curved Head
Bolt
Hex Sems Bolt
Directional Discharge

6
SECTION 3: OPERATING YOUR LEAF BLOWER
WARNING: Read, understand, and follow
all instructions and warnings on the
machine and in this manual before
operating.
Gas And Oil Fill-Up
Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in
the separate engine manual packed with your string
trimmer mower. Read instructions carefully.
WARNING: Use extreme care when han-
dling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely
flammable and the vapors are explosive.
Never fuel machine indoors or while the
engine is hot or running. Extinguish ciga-
rettes, cigars, pipes, and other sources of
ignition.
Stopping Engine
•To stop engine, move throttle control lever to OFF
position.
•Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and
ground against the engine.
Starting Engine
•Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. Make certain
the metal cap on the end of the spark plug wire is
fastened securely over the metal tip on the spark
plug. See engine operator’s manual.
•Move the choke lever on engine to CHOKE
position. (A warm engine may not require choking.)
•Move the throttle control on engine to FAST
position.
•Grasp starter handle and pull rope out slowly until
engine reaches start of compression cycle (rope
will pull slightly harder at this point). Let the rope
rewind slowly.
•Pull rope with a rapid, continuous, full arm stroke.
Keeping a firm grip on the starter handle, let the
ropereturn to thestarterslowly.Repeatuntil engine
starts.
•When engine starts, move choke control gradually
to RUN position.
SECTION 4: ADJUSTING YOUR LEAF BLOWER
WARNING: Do not at any time make any
adjustments without first stopping engine
and disconnecting spark plug wire.
Two-Way Discharge
The leaf blower can be adjusted to discharge toward
the front of the unit or to the side.
•Simply push down on the handle and swing door
toward the front to discharge out the side or swing
door to the side to discharge out the front.
Figure 3
Height Adjustment
The height adjustment crank is located on the right
hand side of the leaf blower.
•Turn the crank clockwise to raise the discharge
chute.
•Turn the crank counterclockwise to lower.
Figure 4
Engine Adjustment
Refer to the separate engine manual for engine
adjustment instructions.
Handle
Directional Discharge

7
SECTION 5: MAINTAINING YOUR LEAF BLOWER
WARNING: Before performing any mainte-
nance or repairs, stop the engine, wait
until the machine comes to a complete
stop, disconnect the spark plug wire and
ground against the engine to prevent unin-
tended starting.
Lubrication
Wheels: Rear wheels are provided with light oil
bearings. Lubricate by placing a few drops of SAE 30 oil
on each bearing once a season.
Engine: Follow the separate engine manual packed
with you unit for lubrication instructions.
Engine
Refer to the separate engine manual for all engine
maintenance instructions.
•Maintain engine oil as instructed in the separate
engine manual packed with your unit.
•Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal
conditions. Poor engine performance and flooding
usually indicate that the air cleaner should be
serviced. To service the air cleaner, refer to the
separate engine manual packed with your unit.
•The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap
reset once a season. Spark plug replacement is
recommended at the start of each mowing season.
Clean the engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep
the cooling system (blower housing area) clean to
permit proper air circulation which is essential to engine
performance and life. Be certain to remove all grass,
dirt, and combustible debris from muffler area.
Storing Your Leaf Blower
•Clean the equipment thoroughly.
•Wipe equipment with a oiled rag to prevent rust.
•Refer to engine manual for correct engine storage
instructions.
•Store unit in a clean, dry area. Do not store next to
corrosive materials such as fertilizer.
•For more compact storage, store unit in the
shipping position with the upper handle folded
toward engine. See ASSEMBLY section for details.
WARNING: Never store the machine or
fuel container indoors where there is an
open flame, spark, or pilot light such as on
a water heater, furnace, clothes dryer, or
other gas appliance.
SECTION 6: TROUBLESHOOTING
NOTE: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments listed above, contact your nearest authorized service dealer.
Problem Cause Remedy
Engine fails to start 1. Spark plug wire disconnected.
2. Fuel tank empty or stale fuel.
3. Throttle control lever not in correct
starting position. (If Equipped)
4. Blocked fuel line.
5. Faulty spark plug.
6. Engine flooded
1. Connect wire to spark plug.
2. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.
3. Move throttle lever to start position.
4. Clean fuel line.
5. Clean, adjust gap, or replace.
6. Wait a few minutes to restart, but do not
prime.
Engine runs erratic 1. Spark plug wire loose.
2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.
3. Vent in gas cap plugged.
4. Water or dirt in fuel system.
5. Dirty air cleaner.
6. Carburetor out of adjustment.
1. Connect and tighten spark plug wire.
2. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh
gasoline
3. Clear vent.
4. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.
5. Replace air cleaner.
6. See authorized service dealer.
Engine overheats 1. Engine oil level low.
2. Dirty air cleaner.
3. Air flow restricted.
1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.
2. Replace air cleaner.
3. Remove blower housing and clean.
Idles poorly 1. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too
wide.
2. Carburetor improperly adjusted.
3. Dirty air cleaner.
1. Reset gap to .030”or replace spark
plug.
2. See authorized service dealer.
3. Replace air cleaner.

8
Notes

9
Model Series 650
Ref.
No. Part No. Part Description
1. 14539 Engine Housing Brace Assembly
2. 710-0607 Hex Self Tapping Screw 5/16 x .5
3. 710-3008 Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x .75
4. 736-0119 Lock Washer 5/16”
5. 14541 Right Angle Bracket
6. 710-0627 Hex Locking Bolt 5/16-24 x .75
7. 710-0260 Carriage Bolt 5/16-18 x .62
8. 14479 Directional Discharge Assembly
11. 736-0119 Lock Washer 5/16
12. 712-0267 Hex Nut 5/16-18
13. 731-0608 Blower Guard
14. 711-0758 Hex Shoulder Nut .50”
15. 14563A Nozzle Plate Assembly
16. 710-1254 Hex Bolt 3/8-24 x 1.25
17. 736-0217 Lock Washer 3/8
18. 681-0075 Air Vane Plate Assembly
19. 14496A Blower Housing Assembly
22. 710-0259 Hex Sems Bolt 5/16-18 x .62
23. 736-0242 Bell Washer .34 ID x .87 OD
24. 720-0170 Three Arm Screw 5/16-18 x .75
25. 736-0247 Flat Washer
Ref.
No. Part No. Part Description

10
Model Series 650
Ref.
No. Part No. Part Description
1. 749-0784 Upper Handle
2. 726-0100 Push Nut 3/8
3. 720-0171 Crank Knob
4. 736-0117 Flat Washer .385 ID x .62 OD
6. 710-0805 Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x 1.50
7. 16453 Engine Mounting Frame Assembly
8. 736-0119 Lock Washer 5/16 ID
9. 712-0267 Hex Nut 5/16-18
10. 736-0187 Flat Washer .63 ID x 1.25
11. 714-0115 Cotter Pin
12. 712-0206 Hex Nut 1/2-13
13. 736-0921 Lock Washer 1/2
14. 734-1036 Swivel Caster Wheel 5”Dia x 1.25
15. 16273 Caster Arm Assembly
16. 710-0726 Hex Washer Screw 5/16x .75
17. 14529 Caster Arm Bracket
18. 747-0542 Height Adjustment Crank
19. 736-0451 Saddle Washer .32 ID x .93 OD
20. 736-0159 Flat Washer .34 ID x .87 OD
21. 710-0170 Hex Lock Bolt 5/16-24 x .64
23. 736-0300 Flat Washer .38 ID x .57 OD
24. 750-0528 Spacer .382 ID x .50 OD x .180Lg
25. 736-0169 Lock Washer 3/8 ID
26. 712-0354 Hex Nut 3/8-8
27. 710-3008 Hex Bolt 5/16-18 x .75
28. 711-0797 Ferrule
29. 720-0241 Hand Knob
30. 710-1174 Carriage Bolt 5/16-18 x 2.0
31. 749-0785 Lower Handle
32. 734-1035 Wheel Assembly 12 x 3
33. 738-0185 Rear Axle
34. 710-0599 Self Tap Screw 1/4-20 x .5
35. 710-1502 Screw 8-18 x .375
36. 712-3004A Hex Lock Nut 5/16-18
37. 736-0329 Lock Washer
38. 751-0447 Deflector
39. 751-0632 Muffler Guard
40. 751-0646 Muffler Guard Bracket
41. 736-0162 Flat Washer
Ref.
No. Part No. Part Description

11

MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR:
The limited warranty set forth below is given by MTD
PRODUCTS INC (“MTD”) with respect to new merchandise
purchased and used in the United States, its possessions
and territories.
MTD warrants this product against defects in material and
workmanship for a period of two (2) years commencing on
the date of original purchase and will, at its option, repair or
replace, free of charge, any part found to be defective in
material or workmanship. This limited warranty shall only
apply if this product has been operated and maintained in
accordance with the Operator’s Manual furnished with the
product, and has not been subject to misuse, abuse, com-
mercial use, neglect, accident, improper maintenance,
alteration, vandalism, theft, fire, water or damage because
of other peril or natural disaster. Damage resulting from the
installation or use of any accessory or attachment not
approved by MTD Products Inc. for use with the product(s)
covered by this manual will void your warranty as to any
resulting damages.
Normal wear parts or components thereof are subject to
separate terms as follows: All normal wear part or compo-
nent failures will be covered on the product for a period of
90 days regardless of cause. After 90 days, but within the
two year period, normal wear part failures will be covered
ONLY IF caused by defects in material or workmanship of
OTHER component parts. Normal wear parts and compo-
nents include, but are not limited to, belts, blades, blade
adapters, grass bags, rider deck wheels, seats, snow
thrower skid shoes, shave plates and tires. Batteries are
covered by a 90-day limited replacement warranty.
HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available,
WITH PROOF OF PURCHASE THROUGH YOUR LOCAL
AUTHORIZED SERVICE DEALER. To locate the dealer in
your area, please check for a listing in the Yellow Pages or
contact the Customer Service Department of MTD PROD-
UCTS INC by calling 1-800-800-7310 or writing to P.O. Box
368022, Cleveland, Ohio 44136-9722.
This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the
following cases:
a.The engine or component parts thereof. These items
carry a separate manufacturer’s warranty. Please refer
to the applicable manufacturer’s warranty on these
items.
b.Log splitter pumps, valves and cylinders have a sepa-
rate one year warranty.
c. Routine maintenance items such as lubricants, filters,
blade sharpening and tune-ups, or adjustments such
as brake adjustments, clutch adjustments or deck
adjustments; and normal deterioration of the exterior
finish due to use or exposure.
d.MTD does not extend any warranty for products sold
or exported outside of the United States of America,
its possessions and territories, except those sold
through MTD’s authorized channels of export distribu-
tion.
No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of
merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose,
applies after the applicable period of express written
warranty above as to the parts as identified. No other
express warranty or guaranty, whether written or oral,
except as mentioned above, given by any person or
entity, including a dealer or retailer, with respect to any
product shall bind MTD. During the period of the War-
ranty, the exclusive remedy is repair or replacement of
the product as set forth above. (Some states do not
allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so
the above limitation may not apply to you.)
The provisions as set forth in this Warranty provide the
sole and exclusive remedy arising from the sales. MTD
shall not be liable for incidental or consequential loss
or damages including, without limitation, expenses
incurred for substitute or replacement lawn care ser-
vices, for transportation or for related expenses, or for
rental expenses to temporarily replace a warranted
product. (Some states do not allow the exclusion or limita-
tion of incidental or consequential damages, so the above
exclusion or limitation may not apply to you.)
In no event shall recovery of any kind be greater than the
amount of the purchase price of the product sold. Alteration
of the safety features of the product shall void this War-
ranty. You assume the risk and liability for loss, damage, or
injury to you and your property and/or to others and their
property arising out of the use or misuse or inability to use
the product.
This limited warranty shall not extend to anyone other than
the original purchaser, original lessee or the person for
whom it was purchased as a gift.
How State Law Relates to this Warranty: This limited
warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also
have other rights which vary from state to state.