MTD 277CC User manual

Safety • Operation • Maintenance • Storage • Troubleshooting
READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATION
IMPORTANT:
PRINTED IN U.S.A. MTD Products Ltd., P. O. Box 1386, KITCHENER, ONTARIO N2G 4J1
277cc, 357cc and 420 cc
Horizontal Shaft OHV Snow Engines
06/05/09
769 -05118
OPERATOR’S MANUAL

2

3
Table of Contents
This manual covers the operation and maintenance of your
engine. All information in this publication is based on the latest
product information available at the time of printing.
No part of this publication may be reproduced without written
permission.
This manual should be considered a permanent part of the
engine and should remain with it if it is resold.
This Operator’s Manual is an important part of your new engine. It will help you prepare and maintain the unit for best
performance. Please read and understand what it says.
Safe Operation Practices.........................................4
Operating the Engine...............................................6
Maintaining the Engine ...........................................10
Troubleshooting ................................................. ....13
Emission Control System Warranty Statement ......14
Pay special attention to safety messages and notes printed in
this manual and on the engine itself. A safety message alerts
you to potential hazards that could hurt you or others.
WARNING: Indicates a strong possibility of
severe personal injury or death if instructions
are not followed. Each safety message is
preceded by a safety symbol.
NOTE: Gives helpful information.
IMPORTANT: Indicates a possibility of equip-
ment or property damage if instructions are
not followed.
WARNING: The engine is designed to give safe and dependable service if operated according to instructions. Read
and understand the Operator’s Manual before operating the engine. Failure to do so could result in personal injury or
equipment damage.
This Operator’s Manual may cover a range of engine models. Characteristics and features discussed and/or illustrated in this
manual may not be applicable to all engine models. MTD LLC reserves the right to change product specifications, designs, and
equipment without notice and without incurring obligation.
Visit www.mtdcanada.ca or call a Customer Support Representative at 1-800-668-1238.
Customer Support

4
1
Engine
Safe
Operation
Practices
Gasoline and its vapors are
extremely flammable and
explosive. Fire or explosion can
cause severe burns or death. If
gasoline is spilled on yourself
or your clothes, wash your skin
and change clothes immediately.
• Whenaddingfuel,turnengineOFFandletengine
cool at least 2 minutes before removing gas cap.
• Fillfueltankoutdoorsorinwellventilatedarea.
• Useonlyanapprovedgasolinecontainer.
• Neverfillcontainersinsideavehicleoronatruckor
trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place contain-
ers on the ground away from your vehicle before
filling.
• Ifpossible,removegas-poweredequipmentfromthe
truckortrailerandrefuelitontheground.Ifthisis
not possible, then refuel such equipment on a trailer
with a portable container, rather than from a gasoline
dispenser nozzle.
• Keepthenozzleincontactwiththerimofthefuel
tankorcontaineropeningatalltimesuntilfuelingis
complete.Donotuseanozzlelock-opendevice.
• Donotoverfillfueltank.Filltanktoapproximately
2cmbelowlowestportionofnecktoallowforfuel
expansion.
• Keepgasolineawayfromsparks,openflames,pilot
lights, heat, and other ignition sources.
• Neverfuelequipmentindoorsbecauseflammable
vapors will accumulate in the area.
• Extinguishallcigarettes,cigars,pipes,andother
sources of ignition.
• Checkfuelline,tank,cap,andfittingsfrequentlyfor
cracksorleaks.Replaceifnecessary.
• Whenstartingengine,makesuresparkplug,muffler,
fuel cap and air cleaner are in place.
• Donotcrankenginewithsparkplugremoved.
• Iffuelspills,waituntilitevaporatesbeforestarting
engine.
• Whenoperatingequipment,donottipengineor
equipment at angle which causes gasoline to spill.
• Donotchokecarburetortostopengine.
• Whentransportingequipment,transportwithfuel
tankEMPTY.
• Whenstoringgasolineorequipmentwithfuelintank,
store away from furnaces, stoves, water heaters or
other appliances that have pilot light or other ignition
source because they can ignite gasoline vapors.
Starting engine creates spark-
ing. Sparking can ignite nearby
flammable gases. Explosion and
fire could result.
• IfthereisanaturalorLPgasleakageinarea,donot
start engine.
• Donotusepressurizedstartingfluidsbecausevapors
are flammable.
Engines give off carbon mon-
oxide, an odorless, colorless,
poisonous gas. Breathing carbon
monoxide can cause nausea,
fainting, or death.
• Startandrunengineoutdoors.
• Donotstartorrunengineinenclosedarea,evenif
doors or windows are open.
Unintentional sparking can result
in fire or electric shock. Unin-
tentional start-up can result in
entanglement, traumatic amputa-
tion, or laceration.
• Beforepeformingadjustmentsorrepairs,disconnect
sparkplugwireandkeepitawayfromsparkplug.
• Whentestingforspark,useapprovedsparkplug
tester.
• Donotcheckforsparkwithsparkplugremoved.
Running engine produces heat.
Engine parts, especially muffler,
become extremely hot. Severe
thermal burns can occur on
contact. Combustible debris,
such as leaves, grass, brush, etc.,
can catch fire.
• Allowmuffler,enginecylinder,andfinstocoolbefore
touching.
• Keepchildrenawayfromhotorrunningengines.They
can suffer burns from a hot muffler.
WARNING:Gasolineanditsvaporsareextremelyflammableandexplosive.Fireor
explosioncancausesevereburnsordeath.Ifgasolineisspilledonyourselforyour
clothes,washyourskinandchangeclothesimmediately.
WARNING
Gasoline and its vapors
areextremelyflam-
mableandexplosive.
Fireorexplosioncan
cause severe burns
or death. If gasoline is
spilled on yourself or
your clothes, wash your
skinandchangeclothes
immediately.
Starting engine creates
sparking.Sparkingcan
ignite nearby flamma-
blegases.Explosion
and fire could result.
Unintentionalsparking
can result in fire or
electricshock.Unin-
tentional start-up can
result in entanglement,
traumatic amputation,
or laceration.

5
• Removeaccumulatedcombustiblesfrommufflerand
cylinderarea.
Rotating engine parts can
contact or entangle hands, feet,
hair, clothing, or accessories.
Traumatic amputation or severe
laceration can result.
• Operateequipmentwithguardsinplace.
• Keephandsandfeetawayfromrotatingparts.
• Tieuplonghairandremovejewelry.
• Donotwearloose-fittingclothing,danglingdrawstrings
oritemsthatcouldbecomecaught.
Rapid retraction of starter cord
(kickback) will pull hand and
arm toward engine faster than
you can let go. Broken bones,
fractures, bruises or sprains
could result.
• Whenstartingengine,pullcordslowlyuntilresis-
tanceisfelt,thenpullrapidly.
• Removeallexternalequipment/engineloadsbefore
startingengine.
• Directcoupledequipmentcomponentssuchas,but
notlimitedtoblades,impellers,pulleys,sprockets,
etc.,mustbesecurelyattached.
Safety Label Location
Thislabelwarnsyouofpotentialhazardsthatcancause
seriousinjury.Readitcarefully.SeeFigure1-1for
explanationofsymbols.
Ifthelabelcomesofforbecomeshardtoread,contact
thedealerforreplacement.
1
Engine
Safe
Operation
Practices
WARNING
Runningengine
producesheat.Engine
parts,especiallymuf-
fler,becomeextremely
hot.Severethermal
burnscanoccuron
contact.Combustible
debris,suchasleaves,
grass,brush,etc.,can
catchfire.
Rotatingengineparts
cancontactorentangle
hands,feet,hair,cloth-
ing,oraccessories.
Traumaticamputation
orseverelaceration
canresult.
Rapidretractionof
startercord(kickback)
willpullhandand
armtowardengine
fasterthanyoucan
letgo.Brokenbones,
fractures,bruisesor
sprainscouldresult.
Run
Start
Toxic Fumes
Hot Surface
Safety Alert
Unleaded Fuel
Manual
Read Owner’s
Gasoline Is
Flammable
PB
International Symbols and Meanings
Figure 1-1

6
Primer
Depressing primer forces fuel directly into
engine’s carburetor to aid in cold-weather
starting.
Ignition Key
The ignition key is a safety device.
Insert key and snap in place; do not
turn ignition key. Pull the key out
halfway to stop the engine. Remove key
when the unit is not in use.
Throttle
The throttle control regulates the speed of the engine
and will shut off the engine when moved into the STOP
position.
Choke
Activating the choke closes the choke
plate on the carburetor and aids in start-
ing the engine. For information on choke
usage, see “Starting The Engine.”
Starter Handle
This motor is fitted with a recoil action pull start and a
mitten grip handle for easy access while wearing gloves
or mittens.
Engine Components
Oil Drain
Removing the oil drain plug will drain the oil from the
engine. Refer to the Maintenance section in this manual
for instructions on changing the oil.
Oil Filler Cap/Dipstick
Remove oil cap to check oil level. Refer to “Pre-Operation
Check” section for checking oil and “Maintaining Your
Engine” section for adding oil instructions.
Fuel Fill Cap
Remove gas cap to add fuel. Unit runs on automotive
unleaded gas.
Electric Start (if equipped)
Electric Switch Box
Requires the use of a three-prong outdoor extension cord
and a 120V power source/wall outlet.
Electric Start Button
Pressing the electric starter button engages the engine’s
electric starter when plugged into a 120V power source.
Read this section before starting the engine. It is important to familiarize yourself with the controls on the engine. Refer
to “Starting the Engine” section for detailed operating instructions.
2
Operating
the
Engine
IMPORTANT: Your
snowthrower may or may
not have been shipped
with oil in the engine. You
must, however, check the oil
level prior to operating the
snow thrower. Running the
engine with insufficient oil
can cause serious engine
damage and void the engine
warranty.
Specifications are
subject to change without
notification or obligation.
Images my not reflect your
exact model and are for
reference purposes only.
Figure 2-1: Front and rear views of the engine.
* Optional
PRIMER
Spark Plug
Starter Handle
Oil Drain
Muffler Oil Filler Cap/Dipstick
Electric start
button*
Electric Switch
Box*
Fuel Fill Cap
Primer
Ignition Key
Throttle
Choke

7
Avoid repeated or prolonged contact with skin or•
breathing of vapor.
Checking the Fuel Level
IMPORTANT: Before refueling, allow engine to cool
two minutes.
Clean around fuel fill before removing cap to fuel.1.
A fuel level indicator is located in the fuel tank. Fill2.
Pre-Operation Check
IMPORTANT: Your snowthrower may or may not have
been shipped with oil in the engine. You must, however,
check the oil level prior to operating the snow thrower.
Running the engine with insufficient oil can cause
serious engine damage and void the engine warranty.
Oil Recommendations
Before starting engine, fill with oil, refer to viscosity chart
in Figure 2-2. Engine oil capacity is 1100 ml. Do not
over-fill. Use a 4-stroke, or an equivalent high detergent,
premium quality motor oil certified to meet or exceed
U.S. automobile manufacturer’s requirements for service
classification SG, SF. Motor oils classified SG, SF will
show this designation on the container.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT use nondetergent oil or
2-stroke engine oil. It could shorten the engine’s
service life.
Checking Oil Level
IMPORTANT: Be sure to check the engine on a level
surface with the engine stopped.
Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick and wipe the1.
dipstick clean, Figure 2-3.
Insert the cap/dipstick into the oil filler neck, but do2.
not screw it in.
Remove the oil filler cap/dipstick. If the level is low,3.
slowly add oil until oil level registers between high
(H) and low (L), Figure 2-3.
Replace and tighten cap/dipstick firmly before4.
starting engine.
IMPORTANT: Do not overfill. Overfilling with oil may
cause smoking, hard starting, or spark plug fouling.
Fuel Recommendations
Use automotive gasoline (unleaded or low leaded to
minimize combustion chamber deposits) with a minimum
of 87 octane. Gasoline with up to 10% ethanol or 15%
MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether) can be used. Never
use an oil/gasoline mixture or dirty gasoline. Avoid
getting dirt, dust, or water in the fuel tank. DO NOT use
E85 gasoline.
WARNING: Gasoline is extremely flam-
mable and is explosive under certain
conditions.
Refuel in a well-ventilated area with the engine•
stopped. Do not smoke or allow flames or sparks
in the area where the engine is refueled or where
gasoline is stored.
Do not overfill the fuel tank. After refueling, make•
sure the tank cap is closed properly and securely.
Be careful not to spill fuel when refueling. Spilled•
fuel or fuel vapor may ignite. If any fuel is spilled,
make sure the area is dry before starting the engine.
2
Operating
the
Engine
WARNING
WARNING: Gasoline is
extremely flammable and
is explosive under certain
conditions.
WARNING: Always keep
hands and feet clear of
equipment moving parts.
Do not use a pressurized
starting fluid. Vapors are
flammable.
Figure 2-3: Checking the oil level.
Figure 2-4: The fuel level indicator
Figure 2-2: Oil Viscosity Chart
-30º -20º -10º 0º
0º 20º 40º-20º
5W-30
0W-30
-40º
Synthetic
Fuel Level Indicator
Top View
Fill
between
high
and low
marks

8
2
Operating
the
Engine
IMPORTANT: This engine
is shipped without gaso-
line or oil in the engine.
Running the engine with
insufficient oil can cause
serious engine damage and
void the engine warranty.
WARNING: The optional
electric starter is equipped
with a grounded three-wire
power cord and plug, and is
designed to operate on 120
volt AC household current.
It must be used with a prop-
erly grounded three-prong
receptacle at all times to
avoid the possibility of
electric shock.
WARNING
Starting the Engine
WARNING: Always keep hands and
feet clear of moving parts. Do not use
a pressurized starting fluid. Vapors are
flammable.
NOTE: Allow the engine to warm up for a few min-
utes after starting. The engine will not develop full
power until it reaches operating temperatures.
Engines with Electric Starters
WARNING: The electric starter is
equipped with a grounded three-wire
power cord and plug, and is designed
to operate on 120 volt AC household
current. It must be used with a properly grounded
three-prong receptacle at all times to avoid the
possibility of electric shock. Follow all instructions
carefully prior to operating the electric starter.
WARNING: DO NOT use electric starter
in rain.
Determine that your home’s wiring is a three-wire1.
groundedsystem.Askalicensedelectricianifyou
are unsure. If you have a grounded three-prong
receptacle, proceed as follows. If you do not have
the proper house wiring, DO NOT use the electric
starter under any conditions.
Insertignitionkeyfullyintoslot,Figure2-5.Make2.
sure it snaps into place. DO NOT turn ignition
key.The engine cannot start unless the key is
inserted into ignition switch.
Plugtheextensioncordintotheelectricswitchbox3.
locatedontheengine,Figure2-6.Plugtheother
endofextensioncordintoathree-prong120-volt,
grounded, AC outlet in a well-ventilated area.
Movethrottlecontrol,Figure2-1,toFAST(rabbit)4.
position.
MovechoketotheCHOKEposition(coldengine5.
start).Ifengineiswarm,placechokeinRUN
position,Figure2-1.
Pushprimerthree(3)times,makingsuretocover6.
ventholewhenpushing,Figure2-1.Ifengineis
warm, push primer only once. Always cover vent
hole when pushing. Cool weather may require
priming to be repeated.
Pushstarterbuttontostartengine,Figure2-1.7.
Once the engine starts, immediately release
starter button. Electric starter is equipped with
thermaloverloadprotection;systemwilltemporarily
shut-down to allow starter to cool if electric starter
becomes overloaded.
Figure2-5:Theignitionkeyisasafetydevice.
Figure2-6:Plugcordintoelectricswitchboxonengine.
Astheenginewarms,slowlyrotatethechokecontrol8.
to RUN position. If the engine falters, restart engine
andrunwithchokeathalf-chokepositionforashort
periodoftime,andthenslowlyrotatethechokeinto
RUN position.
After engine is running, disconnect power cord from9.
electric starter. When disconnecting, always unplug
the end at the wall outlet before unplugging the
opposite end from the engine.

9
Engines with Starter Handle
(non-electric start)
IMPORTANT: Do not pull the starter handle with
engine running.
Insertignitionkeyfullyintoslot,Figure2-4.Make1.
sureitsnapsintoplace.DONOTturnignitionkey.
Theenginecannotstartunlessthekeyisinserted
into ignition switch.
Movethrottle,Figure2-1,controltoFAST(rabbit)2.
position.
Movechoke,Figure2-1,totheCHOKEposition3.
(coldenginestart).Ifengineiswarm,placechokein
RUN position.
Pushprimerthree(3)times,makingsuretocover4.
ventholewhenpushing,Figure2-1.Ifengineis
warm, push primer only once. Always cover vent
hole when pushing. Cool weather may require
priming to be repeated.
Pull gently on the starter handle until it begins to5.
resist,thenpullquicklyandforcefullytoovercome
the compression. Do not release the handle and al-
lowittosnapback.ReturnropeSLOWLYtooriginal
position. If required, repeat this step.
Astheenginewarms,slowlyrotatethechoke6.
control to RUN position. If the engine falters, restart
engineandrunwithchokeathalf-chokeposition
for a short period of time, and then slowly rotate the
chokeintoRUNposition.
Stopping the Engine
WARNING: To avoid unsupervised en-
gine operation, never leave the engine
unattended while running. Turn the
engine off after use and remove ignition
key
Run engine for a few minutes before stopping to help dry
off any moisture on the engine.
Move throttle control to STOP position.1.
Removetheignitionkey.Removingthekeywill2.
reduce the possibility of unauthorized starting of the
engine while equipment is not in use. Keep the key
in a safe place. The engine cannot start without
the ignition key.
Wipe any moisture away from the controls on the3.
engine.
2
Operating
the
Engine
WARNING: To avoid
unsupervised engine
operation, never leave the
engine unattended while
running. Turn the engine
off after use and remove
ignition key
WARNING
IMPORTANT: Do not allow
the starter handle to snap
back against the engine.
Return it gently to prevent
damage to the starter.

10
Tasks First5
Hrs.
Each Use or
Every 5 Hrs.
Every Season
or 25 Hrs.
Every Season
or 50 Hrs.
Every Season
or 100 Hrs.
Service Dates
Checkengineoil
Change engine oil
Checksparkplug
Servicesparkplug
Cleanexhaustarea
NOTE: Please dispose of used motor oil in a manner
that is compatible with the environment. We suggest
you take it in a sealed container to your local service
station for reclamation. Do not throw it in the trash or
pour it on the ground.
Oil Service
Checkoillevelregularly.•
Besurecorrectoillevelismaintained.Checkevery•
five hours or daily before starting engine. See oil
checkingprocedureintheOperationsection.
Oil Change
IMPORTANT: Be sure to check engine on a level
surface with the engine stopped. Drain the oil while
the engine is still warm to assure rapid and complete
draining.
Drainfuelfromtankbyrunningengineuntilthefuel1.
tankisempty.Besurefuelfillcapissecure.
Place suitable oil collection container under oil drain2.
plug.
Removeoildrainplug,Figure3-1.3.
Tip engine to drain oil into the container. Used oil4.
must be disposed of at a proper collection center.
Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it securely.5.
Refillwiththerecommendedoilandchecktheoil6.
level, refer to Operation section for instructions.
Reinstalltheoilfillercap/dipsticksecurely.7.
IMPORTANT: Used motor oil may cause skin cancer
if repeatedly left in contact with the skin for pro-
longed periods. Although this is unlikely unless you
handle used oil on a daily basis, it is still advisable
to thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water
as soon as possible after handling used oil.
WARNING: Shut off the engine before
performing any type of maintenance.
To prevent accidental start-up, discon-
nect the spark plug boot.
IMPORTANT: If engine must be tipped to transport
equipment or to inspect, keep spark plug side of en-
gine up. Transporting or tipping engine with spark
plug down may cause smoking, hard starting, spark
plug fouling, or oil saturation of air cleaner.
Periodicinspectionandadjustmentoftheengineis
essential if high level performance is to be maintained.
Regular maintenance will also ensure a long service life.
The required service intervals and the type of mainte-
nance to be performed are described in the table below.
Followthehourlyorcalendarintervals,whicheveroccur
first. More frequent service is required when operating in
adverse conditions.
Maintenance Schedule
3
Maintaining
the
Engine
WARNING
WARNING: Shut off the
engine before performing
any type of maintenance.
To prevent accidental
start-up, disconnect the
spark plug boot.
Before tipping engine or
equipment to drain oil,
drain fuel from tank by
running engine until fuel
tank is empty.
IMPORTANT: Be sure to
check engine on a level
surface with the engine
stopped. Drain the oil
while the engine is still
warm to assure rapid and
complete draining.
Figure3-1:Removetheoildrainplugtodrainoilfromengine.
Oil Drain
Oil
Drain
Plug

11
Spark Plug Service
WARNING: DO NOT check for spark
with spark plug removed. DO NOT
crank engine with spark plug removed.
WARNING: If the engine has been run-
ning, the muffler will be very hot. Be
careful not to touch the muffler.
Toensureproperengineoperation,thesparkplugmust
be properly gapped and free of deposits.
Removethesparkplugbootanduseasparkplug1.
wrenchtoremovetheplug,Figure3-2.
Visuallyinspectthesparkplug.Discardthespark2.
plug if there is apparent wear, or if the insulator is
crackedorchipped.Cleanthesparkplugwithawire
brush if it is to be reused.
Measure the plug gap with a feeler gauge. Correct3.
asnecessarybybendingsideelectrode,Figure
3-3. The gap should be set to 0.02-0.03 inches
(0.60-0.80mm).
Checkthatthesparkplugwasherisingoodcondi-4.
tionandthreadthesparkpluginbyhandtoprevent
cross-threading.
Afterthesparkplugisseated,tightenwithaspark5.
plug wrench to compress the washer.
NOTE: When installing a new spark plug, tighten
1/2 turn after the spark plug seats to compress the
washer. When reinstalling a used spark plug, tighten
1/8-1/4 turn after the spark plug seats to compress
the washer.
IMPORTANT: The spark plug must be tightened
securely. An loose spark plug can become very hot
and can damage the engine.
Cleaning the Engine
If the engine has been running, allow it to cool for at least
half an hour before cleaning. Periodically remove dirt
build-up from engine.
IMPORTANT: Do not spray engine with water to
clean because water could contaminate fuel. Using
a garden hose or pressure washing equipment can
also force water into the muffler opening. Water that
passes through the muffler can enter the cylinder,
causing damage.
WARNING: Accumulation of debris
around muffler could cause a fire.
Inspect and clean before every use.
3
Maintaining
the
Engine
WARNING
DO NOT check for spark
with spark plug removed.
DO NOT crank engine
with spark plug removed.
If the engine has been
running, the muffler will
be very hot. Be careful
not to touch the muffler.
Figure3-2:Thesparkplugandboot.
Figure3-3:Useafeelergaugetomeasurethepluggap.
SparkPlug
SparkPlugBoot
0.02-0.03 in.
0.60-0.80mm
Electrode

12
Storage
Engines stored over 30 days need to be drained of fuel to prevent deterioration and gum from forming in fuel system
or on essential carburetor parts. If the gasoline in your engine deteriorates during storage, you may need to have the
carburetor, and other fuel system components, serviced or replaced.
Removeallfuelfromtankbyrunningengineuntilitstopsfromlackoffuel.1.
Change oil. See Oil Change section.2.
Removesparkplugandpourapproximately1oz.(30ml)ofcleanengineoilintothecylinder.Pulltherecoil3.
starterseveraltimestodistributetheoil,andreinstallthesparkplug.
Clean debris from around engine, and under, around, and behind muffler. Apply a light film of oil on any areas that4.
are susceptible to rust.
Store in a clean, dry and well ventilated area away from any appliance that operates with a flame or pilot light,•
suchasafurnace,waterheater,orclothesdryer.Avoidanyareawithasparkproducingelectricmotor,orwhere
power tools are operated.
If possible, avoid storage areas with high humidity.•
Keeptheenginelevelinstorage.Tiltingcancausefueloroilleakage.•
Removing From Storage
CheckyourengineasdescribedinthePre-OperationChecksectioninthismanual.1.
Ifthefuelwasdrainedduringstoragepreparation,fillthetankwithfreshgasoline.Ifyoukeepacontainerof•
gasolineforrefueling,makecertainitcontainsonlyfreshfuel.Gasolineoxidizesanddeterioratesovertime,
causing hard starting.
Ifthecylinderwascoatedwithoilduringstoragepreparation,theenginewillsmokebrieflyatstartup.Thisis•
normal.
3
Maintaining
the
Engine
WARNING
Accumulation of debris
around muffler could
cause a fire. Inspect and
clean before every use.
IMPORTANT: Do not
spray engine with water
to clean because water
could contaminate fuel.
Using a garden hose
or pressure washing
equipment can also force
water into the air cleaner
or muffler opening. Water
in the air cleaner will soak
the paper element, and
water that passes through
the element or muffler
can enter the cylinder,
causing damage.

13
For repairs beyond the
minor adjustments listed
here, contact an autho-
rized service dealer.
4
Trouble-
shooting
Problem Cause Solution
Engine fails to start Enginefloodedfromexcessive1.
priming
Sparkplugwiredisconnected2.
Fueltankemptyorstalefuel3.
Enginenotchoked4.
Faultysparkplug5.
Engine not primed6.
Ignitionkeyinstalledimproperly7.
Throttle in stop position8.
Wait at least ten minutes before1.
starting
Connectwiretosparkplug2.
Filltankwithclean,freshgasoline3.
Chokeengine4.
Clean,adjustgap,orreplace5.
Prime engine 3 times6.
Insertignitionkeyalltheway7.
MovethrottletoFAST/RUNposition8.
Engine runs erratically Sparkplugwireloose1.
Sparkplugscorched,defective,or2.
electrode gap set incorrectly
Stale fuel3.
Unitrunningwithchokeon4.
Water or dirt in fuel system5.
Connectandtightensparkplugwire1.
Re-adjustelectrodegaporchange2.
sparkplug
Filltankwithclean,freshgasoline3.
Movechoketooff4.
Drainfueltank.Refillwithfreshfuel.5.
Engine overheats Engine oil level low1. Fillenginewithproperamountof1.
engine oil.
Troubleshooting
Forrepairsbeyondtheminoradjustmentslistedhere,contactanauthorizedservicedealer.

MTD CONSUMER GROUP INC (MTD), the California Air Resources Board (CARB)
and the United States Environment Protection Agency (U. S. EPA)
Emission Control System Warranty Statement
(Owner’s Defect Warranty Rights and Obligations)
EMISSIONCONTROLSYSTEMCOVERAGEISAPPLICABLETOCERTIFIEDENGINESPURCHASEDINCALIFORNIAIN2005ANDTHERE-
AFTER,WHICHAREUSEDINCALIFORNIA,ANDTOCERTIFIEDMODELYEAR2005ANDLATERENGINESWHICHAREPURCHASEDAND
USED ELSEWHERE IN THE UNITED STATES.
California and elsewhere in the United States Emission Control Defects Warranty Coverage
TheCaliforniaAirResourcesBoard(CARB),U.S.EPAandMTDarepleasedtoexplaintheemissionscontrolsystemwarrantyonyourmodelyear
2006 and later small off-road engine. In California, new small off-road engines must be designed, built and equipped to meet the States anti-smog
standards.ElsewhereintheUnitedStates,newnon-road,spark-ignitionenginescertifiedformodel2005andlater,mustmeetsimilarstandardsset
forth by the U. S. EPA. MTD must warranty the emission control system on your engine for the period of time listed below, provided there has been
no abuse, neglect or improper maintenance of your small off-road engine.
Youremissioncontrolsystemmayincludepartssuchasthecarburetor,fuel-injectionsystem,theignitionsystem,andcatalyticconverter,fueltanks,
fuel lines, fuel caps, valves, canisters, filters, vapor hoses, clamps, connectors, and other associated emission-related components.
Whereawarrantableconditionexists,MTDwillrepairyoursmalloff-roadengineatnocosttoyourincludingdiagnosis,partsandlabor.
MANUFACTURER’S WARRANTY COVERAGE:
This emissions control system is warranted for two years. If any emission-related part on your engine is defective, the part will be repaired or
replaced by MTD.
OWNER’S WARRANTY RESPONSIBILITIES:
As the small off-road engine owner, you are responsible for the performance of the required maintenance listed in your Owner’s Manual. MTD
recommends that you retain all your receipts covering maintenances on your small off-road engine, but MTD can not deny warranty solely for the
lackofreceiptsorforyourfailuretoensuretheperformancetoallscheduledmaintenance.
As the small off-road engine owner, you should however be aware that MTD may deny your warranty coverage if your small off-road engine or part
has failed due to abuse, neglect, improper maintenance or unapproved modifications.
Youareresponsibleforpresentingyoursmalloff-roadenginetoanAuthorizedMTDServiceDealerassoonasaproblemexists.Thewarranted
repairsshouldbecompletedinareasonableamountoftime,nottoexceed30days.
If you have any questions regarding your warranty rights and responsibilities, you should contact a MTD Service Representative.
In the U.S.A.: MTDLLCatP.O.Box361131,Cleveland,Ohio44136-0019,orcall1-800-800-7310or1-330-220-4683or
log on to our Web site at www.mtdproducts.com.
In Canada: MTDProductsLimited,Kitchener,ONN2G4J1,orcall1-800-668-1238orlogontoourWebsiteatwww.mtdcanada.com.
DEFECTS WARRANTY REqUIREMENTS FOR 1995 AND LATER SMALL OFF-ROAD ENGINES:
This section applies to 1995 and later small off-road engines. The warranty period begins on the date the engine or equipment is delivered to an
ultimate purchaser.
(a) General Emissions Warranty Coverage
MTD must warrant to the ultimate purchaser and each subsequent purchaser that the engine is:
1. Designed,built,andequippedsoastoconformwithallapplicableregulationsadoptedbytheAirResourcesBoardpursuanttoitsauthorityin
Chapters1and2,Part5,Division26oftheHealthandSafetyCode;and
2. Freefromdefectsinmaterialsandworkmanshipthatcausethefailureofawarrantedparttobeidenticalinallmaterialrespectstothepartas
described in the engine manufacturer’s application for certification for a period of two years.
(b) The warranty on emissions-related parts will be interpreted as follows:
1. AnywarrantedpartthatisnotscheduledforreplacementasrequiredmaintenanceinthewritteninstructionsrequiredbySubsection(c)mustbewarrantedfor
thewarrantyperioddefinedinSubsection(a)(2).Ifanysuchpartfailsduringtheperiodofwarrantycoverage,itmustberepairedorreplacedbyMTDaccord-
ingtoSubsection(4)below.Anysuchpartrepairedorreplacedunderthewarrantymustbewarrantedfortheremainingwarrantyperiod.
2. AnywarrantedpartthatisscheduledonlyforregularinspectioninthewritteninstructionsrequiredbySubsection(c)mustbewarrantedforthewarrantyperiod
definedinSubsection(a)(2).Astatementinsuchwritteninstructionstotheeffectof“repairorreplaceasnecessary”willnotreducetheperiodofwarranty
coverage. Any such part repaired or replaced under warranty must be warranted for the remaining warranty period.
3. AnywarrantedpartthatwhichisscheduledforreplacementasrequiredmaintenanceinthewritteninstructionsrequiredbySubsection(c)mustbewarranted
for the period of time prior to the first scheduled replacement point for that part. If the part fails prior to the first scheduled replacement, the part must be
repairedorreplacedbyMTDaccordingtoSubsection(4)below.Anysuchpartrepairedorreplacedunderwarrantymustbewarrantedfortheremainderofthe
period prior to the first scheduled replacement point for the part.

4. Repair or replacement of any warranted part under the warranty provisions of this article must be performed at no charge to the owner at a warranty station.
5. NotwithstandingtheprovisionsofSubsection(4)above,warrantyservicesorrepairsmustbeprovidedatallMTDdistributioncentersthatarefranchisedto
servicethesubjectengines.
6. Theownermustnotbechargedfordiagnosticlaborthatleadstothedeterminationthatawarrantedpartisinfactdefective,providedthatsuchdiagnosticwork
is performed at a warranty station.
7. Theenginemanufacturerisliablefordamagestootherenginecomponentsproximatelycausedbyafailureunderwarrantyofanywarrantedpart.
8. Throughouttheengine’swarrantyperioddefinedinSubsection(a)(2),MTDwillmaintainasupplyofwarrantedpartssufficienttomeettheexpecteddemand
for such parts.
9. Any replacement part may be used in the performance of any warranty maintenance or repairs and must be provided without charge to the owner. Such use will
not reduce the warranty obligations of MTD.
10.Add-onormodifiedpartsthatarenotexemptedbytheAirResourcesBoardmaynotbeused.Theuseofanynon-exemptedadd-onormodifiedpartsshallbe
grounds for disallowing a warranty claim made in accordance with this article. The engine manufacturer shall not be liable under this article to warrant failures
ofwarrantedpartscausedbytheuseofnon-exemptedadd-onormodifiedpart.
(c) MTD will include a copy of the following emission warranty parts list with each new engine, using those por-
tions of the list applicable to the engine.
1. FuelMeteringSystem
 •Coldstartenrichmentsystem(softchoke)
 •Carburetorandinternalparts
 •FuelPump
 •FuelTank
2. Air Induction System
 •Aircleaner
 •Intakemanifold
3. Ignition System
 •Sparkplug(s)
 •MagnetoIgnitionSystem
4. ExhaustSystem
 •Catalyticconverter
 •SAI(Reedvalve)
5. Miscellaneous Items Used in Above System
 •Vacuum,temperature,position,timesensitivevalvesandswitches
 •Connectorsandassemblies
6. Evaporative control
 •FuelHosecertifiedforARBevaporativeemissionof2006.
 •FuelHoseClamps
 •Tetheredfuelcap
 •Carboncanister
 •Vaporlines
GDOC-100174CNRev.B

16
NOTES

16
NOTES

6. Les diagnostics permettant d’établir qu’une pièce garantie est défectueuse doivent être effectués sans frais pour le propriétaire, à condition d’être réalisés par
une station technique autorisée à offrir les services sous garantie.
7. Lefabricantdumoteuresttenuresponsabledesdégâtsauxautrespiècesdumoteursusceptiblesd’avoirétécausésparlapannesousgarantied’unepièce
garantie.
8. MTD s’engage à conserver un stock de pièces garanties suffisant pour satisfaire la demande prévue pour ces pièces pendant la période de garantie du moteur
stipuléeauparagraphe(a)(2).
9. Toute pièce de remplacement peut être utilisée pour l’entretien ou la réparation sous garantie et doit être fournie gratuitement au propriétaire. Ceci ne limite pas
les obligations de garantie de MTD.
10. Les pièces complémentaires ou modifiées qui ne sont pas exemptées par le « Air Resources Board » ne peuvent toutefois pas être utilisées. L’emploi de toute
piècecomplémentaireoumodifiéenonexemptéeserasuffisantpourrejeterunedemanded’applicationdelagarantieenvertudecetarticle.Lefabricantdu
moteur ne sera pas tenu, en vertu de cet article, de garantir les pièces garanties si leur défaillance a été causée par l’utilisation d’une pièce complémentaire ou
modifiée non exemptée.
(c) MTD fournira une copie de la liste suivante des pièces du système antipollution
sous garantie avec chaque moteur neuf utilisant les parties de la liste qui s’appliquent
au moteur.
1. Système de dosage du carburant
 • Systèmed’enrichissementducarburantpourdémarragesàfroid
 • Carburateuretpiècesinternes
 • Pompeàcarburant
2. Système d’admission de l’air
 • Filtreàair
 • Tubulured’admission
3. Système d’allumage
 • Bougie(s)
 • Systèmed’allumageàmagnéto
4. Système d’échappement
 • Potcatalytique
 • Soupaped’injectiond’airsecondairepulsé(SoupapeReed)
5. Divers articles utilisés dans le système ci-dessus
 • Soupapesdedépression,thermocontacts,soupapesdepositionnementetàactionminutéeetinterrupteurs
 • Raccordsetensembles
6. Système d’évaporation
 • Canalisationd’essencecertifiéeparARBen2006pourlesvapeursd’essence
 • Collierspourcanalisationsd’essence
 • Bouchond’essenceattaché
 • Cartoucheàcharbonactif
 • Canalisationspourlesvapeurs
GDOC-100174 Rev. B

MTD CONSUMER GROUP INC. (MTD), California Air Resources Board (CARB) et U.S. EPA (l’Agence de protection de
l’environnement des Etats-Unis)
Déclaration de garantie du système antipollution
(Droits et obligations du propriétaire en vertu de la garantie)
LAGARANTIEDUSYSTÈMEANTIPOLLUTIONS’APPLIQUEAUXMOTEURSCERTIFIÉSQUIONTÉTÉACHETÉSENCALIFORNIEEN2005ETULTÉ-
RIEUREMENT,ETQUISONTUTILISÉSENCALIFORNIE,AINSIQU’AUXMOTEURSCERTIFIÉSDESMODÈLES2005ETULTÉRIEURSQUIONTÉTÉ
ACHETÉSETQUISONTUTILISÉSAILLEURSAUXÉTATS-UNIS.
Garantie du système antipollution en Californie et ailleurs aux Etats-Unis
C’estavecplaisirqueCaliforniaAirResourcesBoard(CARB),U.S.EPAetMTDprésententlagarantiedusystèmeantipollutiondupetitmoteurhorsinstallésur
votre modèle 2006 et ultérieur. En Californie, les petits moteurs hors route neufs doivent être conçus, fabriqués et équipés conformément aux normes antipollution
strictes de l’état. Ailleurs aux Etats-Unis, les petits moteurs hors route neufs à allumage par étincelle des années 2005 et ultérieures doivent respecter des normes
similaires établies par U. S. EPA. MTD doit garantir le système antipollution du moteur pour la durée stipulée ci-dessous, à condition que le petit moteur hors route
n’aitpasfaitl’objetd’abus,denégligenceoud’unentretienincorrect.
Lesystèmeantipollutionpeutinclurelespiècessuivantes:carburateur,systèmed’injection,systèmed’allumage,potcatalytique,réservoirs,canalisationset
bouchons d’essence, soupapes, cartouches absorbantes des vapeurs d’essence, filtres, canalisations, colliers, raccords et autres pièces annexes du système
antipollution.
GARANTIE DU FABRICANT :
Lesystèmeantipollutionestgarantipourunepériodededeuxans.Toutepièceannexedusystèmeantipollutiondumoteurjugéedéfectueuseseraréparéeou
remplacée par MTD.
RESPONSABILITÉS DU PROPRIÉTAIRE :
Le propriétaire de tout petit moteur hors route est tenu de respecter le calendrier des entretiens requis énoncés dans la notice d’utilisation. MTD recommande de
conserver tous les reçus se rapportant à l’entretien du petit moteur hors route. Toutefois, MTD ne peut pas refuser les réclamations sous garantie uniquement à
cause de l’absence de reçus ou à cause du manquement à effectuer l’entretien requis.
Le propriétaire du petit moteur hors route doit toutefois savoir que MTD peut refuser d’honorer la garantie si le petit moteur hors route ou l’une quelconque de ses
piècesafaitl’objetd’abus,denégligence,d’unentretienincorrectoudemodificationsnonapprouvées.
Le propriétaire est tenu de présenter le petit moteur hors route à une station technique agréée dès l’apparition d’un problème. Les réparations sous garantie
devraientêtreeffectuéesdansundélairaisonnablenedépassantpas30jours.
Pourtoutequestionconcernantvosdroitsetresponsabilitésenvertudecettegarantie,adressez-vousaureprésentantdesservicestechniquesdeMTDen
appelantle1-800-668-1238ouenécrivantàMTDProductsLtd.,P.O.Box1386,Kitchener,OntarioCanadaN2G4J1.
TERMES DE LA GARANTIE DESt PETITS MOTEURS HORS ROUTE
FABRIQUÉS EN 1995 ET ULTÉRIEUREMENT
Cettesectionconcernelespetitsmoteurshorsroutefabriquésen1995etultérieurement.Lapériodedegarantiecommencelejouroùlemoteuroul’équipement
est livré à l’acheteur au détail initial.
(a) Protection offerte par la garantie du système antipollution
MTD doit garantir à l’acheteur au détail initial et à chaque acheteur successif que le moteur :
1. a été conçu, construit et équipé conformément à tous les règlements applicables, adoptés par le « Air Resources Board », en vertu de son autorité, et énoncés
dans les Chapitres 1 et 2, Partie 5, Division 26 du Code de la santé et de la sécurité ; et
2. est exempt de tout vice de matière et de fabrication susceptible de causer la défaillance d’une pièce garantie, en tous points identique à la pièce décrite dans la
demande de certification du fabricant du moteur, pour une période de deux ans.
(b) La garantie des pièces du système antipollution sera interprétée comme suit :
1. Toutepiècegarantiepourlaquellelesinstructionsécritesduparagraphe(c)neprévoientpasleremplacementdanslecalendrierdesentretiensrequisdoit
êtregarantiepourlapériodedegarantiespécifiéedansleparagraphe(a)(2).Siunetellepiècetombeenpannependantlapériodedegarantie,elledoitêtre
réparéeouremplacéeparMTDconformémentauparagraphe(4)ci-dessous.Toutepièceréparéeouremplacéeenvertudelagarantiedoitêtregarantiepour
le solde de la période de garantie.
2. Toutepiècegarantiepourlaquellelesinstructionsécritesduparagraphe(c)prévoientseulementuneinspectionrégulièredoitêtregarantiepourlapériodede
garantiespécifiéedansleparagraphe(a)(2).Lamentiondanslesinstructionsécritesde«réparerouremplacerselonlebesoin»neraccourcitpaslapériode
de garantie. Toute pièce réparée ou remplacée en vertu de la garantie doit être garantie pour le solde de la période de garantie.
3. Toutepiècegarantiepourlaquellelesinstructionsécritesduparagraphe(c)prévoientleremplacementdanslecadred’unentretienrequisdoitêtregarantie
pour la période précédant le premier remplacement prévu. Si la pièce tombe en panne avant le premier intervalle de remplacement prévu, la pièce doit être
réparéeouremplacéeparMTDconformémentauparagraphe(4)ci-dessous.Toutepièceréparéeouremplacéesousgarantiedoitêtregarantiepourlesolde
de la période de garantie avant le premier intervalle de remplacement prévu de la pièce.
4. a réparation ou le remplacement de toute pièce garantie en vertu de la garantie énoncée dans cet article doit être effectuée par une station technique agréée,
sans frais pour le propriétaire.
5. Nonobstantlestermesduparagraphe(4)ci-dessus,lesservicesouréparationssousgarantiedoiventêtreeffectuésdanstouslescentresdedistribution/
concessionnaires MTD autorisés à entretenir les moteurs en question.

13
Adressez-vous à une
station technique agréée
pour toute réparation autre
que les réglages mineurs
énumérés ici.
4
Détection
des pannes
Problème Cause Solution
Le moteur ne démarre
pas.
1. Le moteur est noyé en raison d’un
amorçage répété.
2. Le fil de la bougie est débranché.
3. Le réservoir de carburant est vide ou
l’essence est éventée.
4. Le volet de départ n’est pas utilisé.
5. La bougie est défectueuse.
6. Le moteur n’a pas été amorcé.
7. La clé de contact n’est pas bien
enfoncée.
8. L’obturateur est en position Arrêt.
(lecaséchéant)
1. Attendez10minutesaumoinsavantde
remettre en marche.
2. Branchezlefildelabougie.
3. Faites le plein avec une essence
propre et fraîche.
4. Fermezlevoletdedépart.
5. Nettoyezetajustezl’écartementou
remplacezlabougie.
6. Amorcez3foislemoteur.
7. Enfoncezcomplètementlacléde
contact.
8. Placezl’obturateuràlaposition
Rapide/Marche.(lecaséchéant)
Le moteur tourne de
façon irrégulière.
1. Le fil de la bougie est desserré.
2. La bougie est endommagée, dé-
fectueuse ou l’écartement est incorrect.
3. L’essence est éventée.
4. Le volet de départ est fermé.
5. Présence d’eau ou de saleté dans le
système.
1. Branchezetserrezlefildelabougie.
2. Ajustezl’écartementdelabougieou
remplacez-la.
3. Faites le plein avec une essence
propre et fraîche.
4. Fermezlevoletdedépart.
5. Videzleréservoirdecarburant.Faites
le plein avec une essence propre et
fraîche.
Le moteur surchauffe. 1. Le niveau d’huile est bas. 1. Versezlaquantitéd’huileàmoteur
recommandée.
Détection des pannes
Adressez-vousàunestationtechniqueagrééepourtouteréparationautrequelesréglagesmineursénumérésici.