MTD PR600N21RH User manual

OPE TOR'S
DELUXE PUSH ROTARY
LAWN MOWER
MANUAL
OAssembly
oOperation
oMaintenance
Service and Adjustments
, Storage
o Troubleshooting
&WARNING: This lawn mower 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 of California 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
authorized service center,
193732 Rev. 3 03°26.07 BY Printed in U,S,A.

Safety Rules ................. 2-3 Maintenance ............. 14-16 Storage ..................... 18-19
Assembly ...................... 4-7 Service and Troubleshooting ........ 19-20
Operation .................... 8-13 Adjustments .............. 16-17
IMPORTANT: This cutting machine iscapable of amputating hands and feet and throwing ob-
jects. Failu retoobserve thefollowing safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
_,Look for this symbol to point out impor-
tant safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERTII!
YOUR SAFETY IS iNVOLVED.
_,WARNING: In order to prevent accidental
starting when setting up, transporting, ad-
justing or making repairs, always disconnect
spark plug wire and place wire where itcannot
come in contact with plug.
_WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its
constituents, and certain vehicle compo-
nents contain or emit chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm.
AWARNING: Battery posts, terminals and
related accessories contain lead and lead
compounds, chemicals known to the State
of California to cause cancer and birth
defects or other reproductive harm. Wash
hands after handling.
_, CAUTION: Muffler and
other engine parts become
extremely hot during
operation and remain hot
after engine has stopped.
To avoid severe burns on
contact, stay away from these areas.
I. GENERAL OPERATION
•Read, understand, and follow all
instructions on the machine and in the
manual(s) before starting. Be thoroughly
familiar with the controls and the proper
use of the machine before starting.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts. Keep clear of the dis-
charge opening at all times.
• Only allow responsible individuals, who
are familiar with the instructions, to oper-
ate the machine.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks,
toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc., which
could be picked up and thrown by blade.
°Be sure the area is clear of other people
before mowing. Stop machine if anyone
enters the area.
° Do not operate the mower when bare-
foot or wearing open sandals. Always
wear substantial foot wear.
•Do not pull mower backwards unless
absolutely necessary. Always look down
and behind before and while moving
backwards.
° Never direct discharged material toward
anyone. Avoid discharging material against
a wall or obstruction. Material may richo-
chet back toward the operator. Stop the
blade when crossing gravel surfaces.
° Do not operate the mower without
proper guards, plates, grass catcher or
other safety protective devices in place.
• See manufacturer's instructions for
proper operation and installation of
accessories. Only use accessories ap-
proved by the manufacturer.
° Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel
drives, walks, or roads.
° Stop the engine (motor) whenever you
leave the equipment, before cleaning the
mower or unclogging the chute.
o Shut the engine (motor) off and wait until
the blade comes to complete stop before
removing grass catcher.
o Mow only in daylight /good artificial light.
• Do not operate the machine while under
the influence of alcohol or drugs.
° Never operate machine in wet grass.
Always be sure of your footing: keep a
firm hold on the handle; walk, never run.
° Disengage the self-propelled mech-
anism or drive clutch on mowers so
equipped before starting the engine.
o If the equipment should start to vibrate
abnormally, stop the engine (motor) and
check immediately for the cause. Vibra-
tion is generally a warning of trouble.
•Always wear safety goggles or safety glass-
eswith side shields when operating mower.
Ih SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to slip &
fall accidents which can result in severe in-
jury. All slopes require extra caution. If you
feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it.
DO:
•Mow across the face of slopes: never
up and down. Exercise extreme caution
2 when changing direction on slopes.

• Removeobstacles(rocks,treelimbs,etc.)
o Watchforholes,ruts,or bumps,Tall
grasscan hideobstacles,
DO NOT:
° Do not trim near drop-offs, ditches or
embankments. The operator could lose
footing or balance,
o Do not trim excessively steep slopes,
. Do not mow on wet grass, Reduced foot-
ing could cause slipping,
III, CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is
notalert to the presence of children_ Children
are often attracted to the machine and the
mowing activity, Neverassume that children
will remain where you last saw them,
o Keep children out of the trimming area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
° Be alert and turn machine off if children
enter the area.
. Before and while walking backwards,
look behind and down for small children.
oNever allow children to operate the mower,
° Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
IV. SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE
Use extreme care in handling gasoline,
Gasoline is extremely flammable and the
vapors are explosive,
• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes
and other sources of ignition,
• Use only an approved container,
o Never remove gas cap or add fuel with
the engine running. Allow engine to cool
before refueling.
• Never refuel the machine indoors.
•Never store the machine or fuel contain-
er where there is an open flame, spark
or pilot light such as a water heater or on
other appliances,
.Never fill containers inside a vehicle, on
a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner,
Always place containers on the ground
away from your vehicle before filling,
.Remove gas-powered equipment from the
truckertrailerand refuel itontheground. If
this is not possible, then refuel such equip-
ment 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 net
use a nozzle lock-open device,
• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change
clothing immediately,
oNever overfill fuel tank. Replace gas cap
and tighten securely,
V. GENERAL SERVICE
.Never run machine inside a closed area,
o Never make adjustments or repairs with
the engine (motor) running, Disconnect the
spark plug wire, and keep the wire away
from the plug toprevent accidental starting,
• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attachment bolts, tight and keep equip-
ment in good condition,
• Never tamper with safety devices, Check
their proper operation regularly,
o Keep machine free ofgrass, leaves, orother
debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage.
Allow machine to cool before storing.
° 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 is running,
.Grass catcher components are subject to
wear, damage, and deterioration, which
could expose moving parts or allow objects
tobethrown. Frequentlycheckcomponents
and replace with manufacturer's recom-
mended parts, when necessary.
° Mower blades are sharp and can cut.
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
use extra caution when servicing them.
° Do not change the engine governor set-
ting or overspeed the engine,
° Maintain or replace safety and instruc-
tion labels, as necessary.
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new Lawn Mower, It has been designed, engi-
neered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and performance,
Should you experience any problems you cannot easily remedy, please contact your
nearest authorized service center. They have competent, well trained technicians and
the proper tools to service or repair this unit,
° Read the SAFETY RULES and this Operator's Manual in its entirety before you at-
tempt to assemble or operate your new lawn mower to insure proper operation and to
prevent injury to yourself and others. Save this manual for future reference.
° Your new lawn mower has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those
parts left unassembled for shipping purposes, To ensure safe and proper operation
of your lawn mower, all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely.
Use the correct tools as necessary to ensure proper tightness,
° All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc., necessary to complete the assembly have
been placed in the parts bag. 3

TO REMOVE MOWER FROM CARTON
,, Remove all loose parts from carton.
oRemove lawn mower housing with care. Avoid touching blade under housing. Always
wear gloves or other protection when working under or lifting mower.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU ASSEMBLE OR OPERATE YOUR LAWN
MOWER
Do I have aside or rear discharge lawn
mower?
Look for the grass discharge opening on
your mower. If the opening is on the right
side of the mower housing, it is a side
discharge mower. If the opening is at the
back of the mower housing, it is a rear dis_
charge mower. Only rear discharge lawn
mowers have a grass catcher included with
the mower. Approved grass catchers for
side discharge mowers may be purchased
from your nearest authorized dealer.
Do I have a mulching lawn mower?
Look for the grass discharge opening on
your mower_ Raise the discharge guard
(rear door on rear discharge mowers). If
the opening is closed off by a plate, then
your lawn mower is mulcher ready. To
convert to a discharging mower, see the
Operation section of this manual.
FRONT
LEFT
HAND
SIDE
What is the right and left side of the
lawn mower?
When right hand (RH) or left hand (LH) is
mentioned in this manual, it means when
you are in the operating position (standing
behind the handle).
What kind of engine is on my lawn
mower?
When learning how to operate your new
lawn mower, you will need to know what
kind of engine powers the mower. A decal
on the engine will indicate the manu-
facturer and type or brand name of the
engine.
BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINES
[B.,aGSe.s'r oN) [B.,GGS,.ST, 'n'ON)
C LAS SIC__P'_'7_-
[B.IGGS ST.ATTO"J
QgP.lnTgnl°
RIGHT TECUMSEH HONDA
HAND
SIDE ENGINES ENGINES
:E-IOND.
BACKorREAR
_per_lngPositlon) TF.CUMS_
_CAUTION" Do not operate this lawn
mower without the discharge guard or an
entire approved grass catcher in place.
These guards are for your protection and
are required by the American National
Standards Institute and Consumer Prod-
ucts Safety Commission.
_I,CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come in contact with plug.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR LAWN
MOWER
UNFOLD HANDLE
IMPORTANT: Unfold handle carefully so
as not to pinch or damage control cables.
2 POSITION /"ADJUSTABLE" HANDLES
•Raise handles until lower handle section
locks into place in operating position.
4

Operator
control bar
UP
MOWING
Handle
knob
Lower handle
ALL HANDLES
° Raise upper handle section into place on
lower handle, remove protective padding
and tighten both handle knobs.
• Remove handle padding holding opera-
tor presence control bar to upper handle.
° Your lawn mower handle can be ad-
justed for your mowing comfort. Refer to
"ADJUST HANDLE" in the Service and
Adjustments section of this manual
NOTE: For shipping purposes, the rear
wheels on your lawn mower may not be
adjusted to the same position as the front
wheels. Before operating mower adjust all
wheels to the same cutting height.
3 POSITION "EZ" HANDLES
• Raise lower handle section to operating
position and align hole in handle with
one of three height positioning holes.
o Insert handle bolt through handle and
bracket and secure with knob.
° Repeat for opposite side of handle,
Knob /- _ Bolt
/Handle
ustment
bracket
3 POSITION "QUICK" HANDLES
• Raise lower handle section to operating
position and squeeze the bottom ends
of lower handle towards each other until
the pin in handle can be inserted into
one of the three height adjustment holes.
Handle pin
SQL
Handle
bracket
INSTALL REAR WHEELS
(HIGH WHEEL MOWERS ONLY)
Some high wheel models require washers
which will be provided in a parts bag_Ifprovid-
ed, install washers on the axle first as shown.
•Install one (1) rear wheel on the axle of
rear wheel adjuster.
• Install 3/8-16 Iocknut and tighten securely.
oRepeat procedure for other rear wheel.
Wheel Axle
assembly
Flan,
Iocknut
Wave
Washers
ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER
(REAR DISCHARGE MOWERS ONLY)
IMPORTANT: Ifyour model lawn mower
is mulcher ready, the mulcher plate or plug
must be removed before using mower as
a bagger. To convert mower to bagging or
discharging, see the Operation section in
this manual.
Look at the different grass catcher illustra-
tions that follow. Determine which type
of grass catcher you have and follow the
appropriate instructions.
5

"FABRICTOP" GRASSCATCHERS
TOASSEMBLEANDATTACHGRASS
CATCHER
• Putgrasscatcherframeintograssbag
with rigidpartofbagon thebottom,
° Slipvinylbindingsoverframe.
NOTE: Ifvinylbindingsaretoostiff,hold
themin warmwaterforafewminutes. If
baggetswet,letit drybeforeusing.
° Liftthereardooronthemowerhousing.
o ForHINGEBRACKETmountedcatcher,
placethegrasscatcherframeontothe
formedtabsonthereardoorhinge
brackeL
° ForHANDLEBRACKETmounted
catcher,placeframesidehooksinto
slotsin handlebracket&
° ForDOORPIVOTPINmountedcatcher,
placethegrasscatcherframehooks
ontothedoorpivotpins,
° ForDOORSLOTmountedcatcher,
placethegrasscatcherframehooksinto
theslotsof thereardoor,
NOTE:Thegrasscatcherissecuredto the
lawnmowerhousingwhenthereardooris
loweredontothegrasscatcherframe.
Frame
handle
HINGE BRACKET MOUNTED
Rear door
bracket
Grass
catcher
frame
Formed tabs
HANDLE BRACKET MOUNTED
Handle Rear Grass
catcher
handle
Catcher frame side hook
DOOR PIVOT PIN MOUNTED
Rear Grass
catcher
handle
_nyl Frame
bindings opening
AOAUTION: Under normal usage, the
catcher material is subject to deterioration
and wear and should, therefore, be
checked frequently for replacement. Any
replacement catcher should be checked to
ensure compliance with original manufac-
turer's specifications.
AOAUTION: Do not run lawn mower
without the discharge guard (rear door),
approved grass catcher, clipping deflector
or mulcher plate in place. Never attempt
to operate mower with the discharge guard
(rear door) removed or propped open,
\
Catcherframe hook
DOOR SLOT MOUNTED
Rear door slots Grass
catcher
handle
6
\
Catcherframe hook

SPARK PLUG BOOT
On some models a spark plug boot is
packed loose in the parts bag, If your
model has the boot, install on spark plug
wire and reconnect spark plug wire to
spark plug.
Sparkptug
Boot
TO PREPARE BATTERY
(ELECTRIC START MODELS ONLY)
NOTE: Yourbattery mustbe charged
before youcanstart yourlawn mower,
UNITS WITH HANDLE-MOUNTED KEY
SWITCH:
•Connect battery charger connector
(male) to harness connector (female).
UNITS WITH DECK-MOUNTED
BATTERY:
• Disconnect engine connector (male)
from battery connector (female).
• Connect battery charger connector
(male) to battery connector (female).
ALL UNITS:
o Plug battery charger into 110 volt A.C.
outlet.
=Leave battery charger connected for 24
hours before starting your engine for the
first time,
UNITS WITH HANDLE-MOUNTED KEY
SWITCH:
= After charging, disconnect harness
connector (female) from battery charger
connector (male).
Connect your battery charger to charge
battery after each use.
IMPORTANT: The engine will not recharge
your battery.
UNITS WITH DECK-MOUNTED
BATTERY:
°After charging, connect engine connector
(mate) to battery connector (female).
Your engine has an Integral alternator for
partial charging. Connect your battery
charger to charge battery as required_
IMPORTANT: The engine alternator will
not charge a discharged battery,
ALL UNITS:
At the end of the mowing season the
battery should be charged for 48 hours to
_otect the battery during winter storage.
CAUTION: Always disconnect the
engine connector from the battery con-
nector to prevent accidental starting when
transporting or storing your lawn mower
after the season.
HANDLE-MOUNTED KEY SWITCH
Engine Harness
connector connector
Charger
connector (male)
DECK-MOUNTED BATTERY
BatteP Battery
box
Harness
connector
(female)
Charger
connector
Engine connector (male)
7

Theoperationofany lawnmowercanresultinforeignobjectsthrowninto
the eyes, whichcan result in severe eyedamage.Alwayswear safety
glassesoreyeshieldswhileoperatingyourlawnmowerorperformingany
adjustmentsor repairs,Werecommendstandardsafetyglassesorawide
visionsafetymaskwornoverspectacles.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED CONTROL
MODELS WITH REMOTE THROTTLE
Engine speed iscontrolled by the throttle
control located on the upper handle,
•Move lever forward to FAST engine
speed for starting and better bagging.
• Move lever backward for SLOW engine
speed.
• Some models have engines equipped
with a choke feature, Move the lever all
the way forward to the CHOKE position
when starting a cold engine,
!
I
Remote
throttle
control
MODELS WITH FIXED SPEED ENGINES
Engine speed was set at the factory for
optimum performance. Engine speed is
not adjustable.
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
Adjust cutting height to suit your require-
ments. Medium position is best for most
lawns. Raise wheels for low cut and lower
wheels for high cut.
MODELS WITH MANUAL ADJUST
BOLT-ON WHEELS
• Remove wheel, bolt, and hardware and
reassemble in desired adjustment hole,
• Reinstall wheel components in the same
order as they were before removal,
Tighten securely.
• Make sure all wheels are at same height.
Flat washer
Bolt
3/8-16
Spacer Locknut
MODELS WITH "QUICK ADJUST"
WHEEL HEIGHT ADJUSTERS
NOTE: For shipping purposes, the rear
wheels on your lawn mower may not be
adjusted to the same position as the front
wheels. Before operating mower adjust all
wheels to the same cutting height.
•Raise wheels for low cut and lower
wheels for high cuL
• Adjust cutting height to suit your require-
ments. Medium position is best for most
lawns,
•Tochange cutting height, squeeze adjuster
lever toward wheel. Move wheel up or
down to suit your requirements, Be sure
all wheels are in the same setting.
NOTE; Adjuster isproperly positioned when
plate tab inserts into hole in lever. Also. 9-
position adjusters (ifso equipped) allow lever
to be positioned between the plate tabs.
LEVER BACKWARD
TO LOWER MOWER Plate tab
LEVER FORWARD TO RAISE MOWER Lever
8

FOR MULCHING MOWERS ONLY
Most mulching mowers are shipped ready
to be used as a mulcher,
"REAR DISCHARGE ONLY" MOWERS
Some models have a seperate mulcher
plug, other models have the mulcher plug
built intothe rear door. To convert to bag-
ging or discharging, the plate or plug (if
so equipped) must be removed from the
discharge opening of the lawn mower.
o Open rear door and remove mulcher
plate or plug (if so equipped). Store
mulcher plate or plug in a safe place.
= You can now install grass catcher or
optional clipping deflector accessory.
• To return to mulching operation, install
mulcher plate or plug into discharge
opening of mower.
,&CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without mulcher plate/plug in place or ap-
proved clipping deflector or grass catcher
in place. Never attempt to operate the
lawn mower with the rear door removed or
propped open.
MULCHER "PLATE"
Slots \. \
MULCHER "PLUG"
Mulcher
plate tabs
MULCHER PLUG BUILT INTO REAR DOOR
"SIDE DISCHARGE ONLY" MOWERS
MULCHER PLATE TYPE
To convert to bagging or discharging,
mulcher plate must be removed from un-
derside of lawn mower.
•Remove the four (4) screws and lock nuts
securing the mulcher plate to the mower.
•Store mulcher plate and hardware in a
safe place.
°Mower can now be used for side
discharging or optional grass catcher
accessory can be attached.
•To return to mulching operation, simply
reinstall mulcher plate and tighten hard-
ware securely.
Screw and
I
Mulcher plate
Mulcher plu(. 9

MULCHER PLUG TYPE "A"
To convert to mulching operation, mulcher
plug must be installed into discharge open-
ing of mower.
o Open discharge guard.
• Insert tab of mulch plug into housing
opening.
• Align hooks of mulch plug over hinge
rod of discharge guard. Push mulch plug
down until mulch plug is seated in hous-
ing opening.
_CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without discharge guard, approved grass
catcher or mulcher plug in place.
MOWER IS
NOW READY
FOR MULCHING
OPERATION
Hinge rod
Discharge
Housing
opening
Hooks
Mulcher plug Tab
MULCHER PLUG TYPE "B"
To convert to bagging or discharging:
• Lift discharge guard and remove
mulcher plug.
• Mower can now be used for side dis-
charging or optional grass catcher can
be attached.
° "Tbreturn to mulching operation, simply
reinstall mulcher plug as shown, making
sure tab is seated properly_
_,CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without discharge guard, approved grass
catcher or mulcher plug in place.
"COMBI-CUT" MOWERS
Your lawn mower was shipped ready to be
used as a mulcher_ To convert to bagging
or discharging:
REAR BAGGING
• Open rear door and remove mulcher
plate. Store mulcher plate in a safe
place.
• You can now install grass catcher.
o To convert to mulching or discharging
operation, install mulcher plug into rear
discharge opening of mower, making
sure all tabs are seated properly.
Lift
dischal
guard
Install
mulcher
Mulcher
plate tabs
SIDE DISCHARGING
° Mulcher plate must be installed into rear
discharge opening of mower (see above
instructions).
o Open mulcher door and install discharge
deflector under door as shown.
•Mower Is now ready for discharging
operation.
• To convert to mulching or bagging
operation, discharge deflector must be
removed and mulcher door must be
close&
Tab10

/_'_CAUTION" Do not run your lawn mower
without rear mulcher plate or plug in place
J/ or approved grass catcher in place, Never
attempt to operate the lawn mower with
the rear door removed or propped open.
Open mulcher door
Discharge deflector
t \ \
IGRASS CATCHER
(REAR BAGGING MODELS ONLY)
TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER
o Simply open rear door and lift grass
catcher up and away from mower.
NOTE: Do not drag the bag when
emptying. It will cause unnecessary wear.
,_CAUTION: Under normal usage, the
catcher material is subject to deterioration
and wear and should, therefore, be
checked frequently for replacement_ Any
replacement catcher should be checked
to ensure compliance with original
manufacturer's specifications_
,_CAUTION: Do not run lawn mower
without the rear door, approved grass
catcher or clipping deflector in place.
Never attempt to operate mower with the
rear door removed or propped open.
SIMPLE STEPS TO REMEMBER WHEN
CONVERTING YOUR "COMBI-CUT"
LAWN MOWER
FOR MULCHING -
• Rear mulcher plate installed and rear
door closed,
o Mulcher door closed.
FOR REAR BAGGING -
•Rear mulcher plate removed.
° Grass catcher installed,
• Mulcher door closed.
FOR SIDE DISCHARGING -
oRear mulcher plate installed and rear
door closed.
° Discharge deflector installed.
I
tOPERATOR PRESENCE CONTROL
BAR
Your lawn mower is equipped with an op-
erator presence control bar which requires
the operator to be positioned behind the
lawn mower handle in order to start and
_erate the lawn mower.
CAUTION." Federal regulations require
an engine control to be installed on this
lawn mower in order to minimize the
risk of blade contact injury, Do not under
any circumstances attempt to defeat the
function of the operator control, The blade
turns when the engine is running,
11

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
Read the engine manual packed with your
mower,
FILL ENGINE WITH OIL
Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in
the engine,
= Be sure mower is level and area around
oil fill is clean.
° Remove engine oil filler plug (oil fill cap/
dipstick on models so equipped).
= Slowly add oil, For type and grade of
oil to use, see "ENGINE" in the Mainte-
nance section of this manual.
° Fill to the top of slot in filler hole (to
"FULL" line on dipstick on models so
equipped), Do not overfill.
• Replace plug (oil fill cap/dipstick on
models so equipped) and tighten,
• Check oil level before each use, Add oil
as needed.
o To change oil, see Maintenance section
of this manual,
FILL GASOLINE TANK
oFill gasoline tank with fresh, clean, un-
leaded gasoline. DO NOT USE PRE-
MIUM GASOLINE. BE CAREFUL NOT
TO OVERFILL TANK.
WARNING; Alcohol blended fuels (called
gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can
attract moisture which leads to separation
and formation of acids during storage,
Acidic gas can damage the fuel system
of an engine while in storage. To avoid
engine problems, the fuel system should
be emptied before storage of 30 days
or longer. Drain the fuel tank, start the
engine and let it run until fuel lines and
carburetor are empty, Use fresh fuel next
season, See Storage Instructions for
additional information_ Never use engine or
carburetor cleaner products in fuel tank or
permanent damage may occur.
TO START ENGINE
_,CAUTION: The mower blade rotates
whenever the engine is running,
oMove engine speed control to FAST
position (or to CHOKE/START position
on models equipped with choke feature).
• If your mower has a primer, to start a
cold engine, push primer as many times
as instructed in the engine manual
packed with your mower. Use a firm
push. This step is not usually necessary
when starting an engine which has
already run for a few minutes,
• Hold operator presence control bar
down against handle,
MODELS WITH RECOIL STARTER
° Pull starter handle quickly. Do not allow
starter rope to snap back_
MODELS WITH ELECTRIC STARTER
•Push the engine start button (or turn the
key on models so equipped).
IMPORTANT: Do not crank engine more
than five continous seconds each time you
try to start, Wait 5 to 10 seconds between
each attempt.
ALL MODELS
• For engines equipped with choke, slowly
move engine speed control lever to
FAST after engine starts.
TO STOP ENGINE
°To STOP engine, release operator pres-
ence control bar,
NOTE: For engines with a primer, it may
be necessary to repeat priming steps
in cooler weather. In warmer weather.
overpriming may cause flooding and
engine will not start, If you do flood
engine, wait a few minutes before
attempting to start and DO NOT repeat
priming steps,
Recoil
starter
handle
12

MOWING TIPS
_, CAUTION: Do not use de-thatcher
blade attachments on your mower, Such
attachments are hazardous, will damage
your mower and could void your warranty.
oFor most cutting conditions and better
bagging performance, the engine speed
should be set in the FAST position.
• Under certain conditions, such as when
mowing very tall grass, raise the mower
height on the first cut to reduce pushing
effort, to avoid overheating the engine,
and to avoid leaving clumps of grass
clippings. Make the second cut to the
desired heighL
• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the
width of cut.
• For side discharge lawn mowers, cut in
a counterclockwise direction, starting at
the outside of the area to be cut, in order
to spread grass clippings more evenly
and to put less load on the engine, To
keep clippings off of walkways, flower
beds, etc., make the first cuts in a clock-
wise direction.
FOR MULCHING MOWERS ONLY
-MULCHING MOWING TIPS
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built-up grass and
trash, See "CLEANING" in the Mainte-
nance section of this manual
•The special mulching blade will recut the
grass clippings many times and reduce
them in size so that as they fall onto the
lawn they will disperse into the grass
and not be noticed. Also, the mulched
grass will biodegrade quicklyto provide
nutrients for the lawn. Always mulch with
your highest engine (blade) speed as
this willprovide the best recutting action
of the blades.
.Avoid cuttingyour lawn when itis wet.
Wet grass tends to form clumps and
interferes with the mulching action. The
best time to mow your lawn is the early
afternoon, At this time the grass has
dried, yet the newly cut area will not be
exposed to direct sunlight.
•For best results, adjust the lawn mower
cutting height so that the lawn mower
cuts off only the top one-third of the
grass blades. If the lawn is overgrown it
will be necessary to raise the height of
cut to reduce pushing effort and to keep
from overloading the engine and leaving
clumps of mulched grass_For extremely
heavy grass, reduce your width of cut by
overlapping previously cut path and mow
slowly.
f
1
R
CJ
o When using a rear discharge lawn
mower in moist, heavy grass, clumps
of cut grass may not enter the grass
catcher. Reduce ground speed (pushing
speed) and/or run the lawn mower over
the area a second time.
o If a trail of grass clipping is left on the
right side of a rear discharge lawn mow-
er, mow in a clockwise direction with a
small overlap to collect the clippings on
the next pass.
oPores in cloth grass catchers can be-
come filled with dirt and dust with use
and the catcher will collect tess grass.
To prevent this, regularly hose catcher
off with water and let dry before use.
MAX 1/3
o Certain types of grass and grass
conditions may require that an area be
mulched a second time to completely
hide the clippings. When doing a second
cut, mow across (perpendicular) to the
first cut path_
•Change your cutting pattern from week
to week, Mow north to south one week
then change to east to west the next
week. This will help prevent matting and
graining of the lawn.
13

MAINTENANCE BEPOREAFrEREVERYEVERYEVERY
EAC. EACH 10 2_.OURS 100 BEFORE
SCHEDULE USE use HOURSORSEASO.HOURSSTORAGE
Check for Loose Fasteners 6,#
LClean /Inspect Grass Catcher" V'
Check Tires
_ Check Drive Wheels V'
Clean Lawn Mower****
M Clean under Drive Cover ***
OCheck Drive Belt/Pulleys ***
t_ Check /Sharpen /Replace Blade
RLubrication
Clean and Recharge Battery **
Check Engine O]1level I,_
_ Change Engine 011
Clean Air Filter
IG Inspect Muffler
Replace Spark Plug
NReplace Alr Filter Paper Cartridge
Empty fuel system or add Stabilizer
v'
v' v' v'
v'
v'
V_,2
v_
v'
v"
v'
_4
v'
t4 v'
* (ifso equipped)
** Electric-Startmowers
*** Power-Propelled mowers
**** Use a scraper
to clean underdeck
1-Change more often ifoperating under a heavy load or inhigh outdoortemperatures,
2-Servicemore often If operating In dirty or dusty conditions.
3- Replace bladesmore often when mowing in sandy sot!
4- Charge 48 hours at end of season,
5- And after each 5hours of use_
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this lawn mower does not
cover items that have been subjected to op-
erator abuse or negligence. To receive full
value from the warranty, operator must main-
tain mower as instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your unit.
All adjustments in the Service and Adjust_
ments section of this manual should be
checked at least once each season.
• Once a year, replace the spark plug,
clean or replace airfilter element, and
check blade for wear. A new spark plug
and clean/new air filter element assures
proper air-fuel mixture and helps your
engine run better and last longer.
oFollow the Maintenance Schedule in this
manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
• Check engine oil level,
• Check for loose fasteners_
LUBRICATION
Keep unitwell lubricated
(See "LUBRICATION CHART").
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will
LUBRICATION CHART
adjuster (on
each wheel)
oil
Side dis-
mower
guard hinge rod
Rear dis-
charge mower
rear door
hinge rod
Handle bracket mounting pins
_,_Spray lubricant
_) See "ENGINE" In Maintenance section,
attract dust and dirt that wilt shorten the life
of the self-lubricating bearings. If you feel
they must be lubricated, use only a dry,
4Powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly,
1

LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when perform-
ing any maintenance.
TIRES
•Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemicals which can harm rubber.
• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
objects and other hazards that may
cause tire damage.
BLADE CARE
For best results, mower blade must be kept
sharp. Replace a bent or damaged blade.
CAUTION: Use only a replacement
blade approved by the manufacturer of
your mower. Using a blade not approved
by the manufacturer of your mower is
hazardous, could damage your mower and
void your warranty,
TO REMOVE BLADE
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with plug,
2, Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure
air filter and carburetor are up.
3. Use a wood block between blade and
mower housing to prevent blade from
turning when removing blade bolt.
NOTE: Protect your hands with gloves
and/or wrap blade with heavy cloth.
4. Remove blade bolt by turning counter-
clockwise.
5. Remove blade and attaching hard_
ware (bolt, lock washer and hardened
washer),
NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and
check the key inside hub of blade adapter.
The key must be in good condition to work
properly. Replace adapter if damaged.
TO REPLACE BLADE
1o Position the blade adapter on the en-
gine crankshaft. Be sure key in adapter
and crankshaft keyway are aligned,
2. Position blade on the blade adapter
aligning the two (2) holes in the blade
with the raised lugs on the adapter.
3o Be sure the trailing edge of blade (op-
posite sharp edge) is up toward the
engine.
4. Install the blade bolt with the lock wash-
er and hardened washer into blade
adapter and crankshaft.
5, Use block of wood between blade and
lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, turning clockwise.
• The recommended tightening torque is
35-40 ft. Ibs.
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is heat treated,
If bolt needs replacing, replace only with
approved bolt shown in the Repair Parts
section of this manual.
15
Blade Crankshaft
Lockwasher
Blade
bolt Hardened /',
washer Trailing edge Crankshaft
TO SHARPEN BLADE
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening
blade - but if you do, be sure the blade is
balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause
eventual damage to lawn mower or engine,
o The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt to
sharpen while on the mower,
• To check blade balance, drive a nail into
a beam or wall. Leave about one inch of
the straight nail exposed. Place center
hole of blade over the head of the nail.
If blade is balanced, it should remain in
a horizontal position. If either end of the
blade moves downward, sharpen the
heavy end until the blade is balanced.
ENGINE
Read the maintenance section of your
engine manual
LUBRICATION
Change the oil after the first two hours of
operation and every 25 hours thereafter or
at least once a year if the lawn mower is
not used for 25 hours in one year. Refer to
engine manual
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
(SEE ENGINE MANUAL)
° Be sure lawn mower is on level surface.
* Oil will drain more freely when warm.
° Catch oil in a suitable container.
° For engines without dipstick, remove
bottom oil drain plug.
° For engines with oil fill cap/dipstick,
remove bottom drain plug or remove en-
gine oi1cap and turn mower on its side.
o After oil has drained completely, replace
oil drain plug and tighten securely.
,Refill engine with oil. Pour slowly. Do
not overfill.
o Fill to top of slot inside of filler hole or
to "FULL" line on dipstick on mode_s so
equipped. Keep oil at proper level.

AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run properly and may
be damaged by using a dirty air filter.
Clean the element after every 25 hours of
operation or every season. Replace the air
filter every 100 hours of operation or every
season, whichever occurs first° Service air
cleaner more often under dusty conditions,
See the maintenance section of your
engine manual,
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it
could create a fire hazard and/or damage.
SPARK PLUG
Replace spark plug at the beginning of
each mowing season or after every 100
hours of operation, whichever occurs first.
Set spark plug gap according to engine
manual specifications.
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep
mower housing free of grass build-up and
trash. Clean the underside of your mower
after each use.
•Clean the underside of your lawn mower
by scraping to remove buildup of grass
and trash.
• Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. A clogged engine runs
hotter and shortens engine life.
o Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
of all gasoline, oil, etc.
We do not recommend using a garden
hose to clean your lawn mower unless the
electrical system, muffler, air filter, and
carburetor are covered to keep water out,
Water in engine can shorten engine life.
GRASS CATCHER (IF SO EQUIPPED)
Grass catcher may be hosed with water
but must be dry when used,
_CAUTION: Under normal usage, the
catcher material issubject to deterioration
and wear and should therefore be checked
to ensure compliance with original
manufacturer specifications,
_,CAUTION: Before performing any service or adjustments:
, Release operator presence control bar.
° Make sure the blade and all moving parts have completely stopped,
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it cannot come in
contact with plug.
LAWN MOWER
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in
the Operation section of this manual°
TO ADJUST HANDLE
2 POSITION HANDLES
The handle can be mounted in a high or
low position, The mounting holes in the
bottom of lower handle are off center for
raising or lowering the handle,
• Remove upper handle and all parts at-
tached to lower handle.
° Remove hairpin cotters from lower
handle bracket mounting pin.
•Squeeze lower handle in to remove it
from mounting pins.
• Turn lower handle over to raise or lower
handle.
• Squeeze lower handle in and position
holes onto mounting pins on handle
bracket.
°Reassemble hairpin cotters onto mount-
ing pins.
• Reassemble upper handle and all parts
removed from lower handier
Mowing ,-_
position '
i_I., _
Hairp_
cotter-_N ,)
Mounting_---_"_ -'
p_n LOW POSITION
Mowing r -,-;
position /'
,a_ Itl
.
HIGH POSITION
TURN LOWER
HANDLE OVER
TO ADJUST HEIGHT
16

3 POSITION"EZ"
Thehandleonyourlawnmowerhasthree
(3)heightpositions- adjusttoheightthat
suitsyou.
° Removeknobandcarriagebolton one
sideofthelowerhandle.
• Whileholdinghandleassembly,remove
knobandcarriageboltfromopposite
side,alignholein handlewithdesired
holeinhandlebracketandreassemble
boltandknobandtightensecurely_
• Alignoppositesideof handlewithsame
positioningholeandsecurewithboltand
knob.
/Handle
cket
Knob
REAR DEFLECTOR (IF EQUIPPED)
The rear deflector, attached between the
rear wheels of your mower, is provided to
minimize the possibility that objects will
be thrown out of the rear of the mower
into the operator mowing position. If the
deflector becomes damaged, it should be
replaced.
ENGINE
CARBURETOR
The carburetor has been preset at the fac-
tory and adjustment should not be neces-
sary. However, minor adjustment may be
required to compensate for differences in
fuel, temperature, altitude or Ioad_
• The air filter must be assembled to the
carburetor when running engine.
o Best carburetor adjustment is obtained
when fuel tank is 1/4 full.
• In order for the engine to run, the opera-
tor presence control bar must be held
in the operating position. Therefore,
and assistant will be required to hold
the control bar in the operating position
when making final adjustment to the
carburetor.
See the ADJUSTMENT section of your
engine manual for further instructions.
3 POSITION "QUICK"
The handle on your lawn mower has three
(3) height positions - adjust to height that
suits you.
o Squeeze the bottom ends of lower
handle towards each other until the pin
in handle can be inserted into one of the
three height adjustment holes.
Handle
adjustment
bracket
SQL
ENGINE SPEED
The engine speed has been factory set°
Do not attempt to increase engine speed
as it may result in personal injury. If you
believe the engine is running too fast
or too slow, take your lawn mower to an
authorized engine service center for repair
and adjustment.
THROTTLE CONTROL
If it becomes necessary to adjust or re-
place the throttle control, see the ADJUST-
MENT section of your engine manual.
17

Immediatelyprepareyourlawnmowerfor
storageattheendoftheseasonor ifthe
unitwill notbeusedfor 30daysormore,
_,CAUTION: Neverstorethelawnmower
withgasolineinthetankinsideabuilding
wherefumesmayreachan openflame
orspark. Allowthe engineto coolbefore
storingin any enclosure,
LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower is to be stored for a pe-
riod of time, clean it thoroughly, remove all
dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in aclean,
dry area.
• Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEAN-
ING" in the Maintenance section of this
manual).
oLubricate as shown in the Maintenance
section of this manual
• Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and
pins are securely fastened. Inspect
moving parts for damage, breakage and
wear. Replace if necessary.
o Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces; sand lightly before painting.
HANDLE
Your handle may be folded for storage as
shown.
• Squeeze the bottom ends of lower
handle towards each other until handle
clears the handle brackets and swing
handles forward over mower.
• Loosen upper handle mounting hard-
ware enough to allow upper handle to be
folded back.
IMPORTANT: When folding handles for
storage or transportation, be sure to fold
handles as shown or you may damage the
control cables.
=.._ SQUEEZE
TO FOLD "_J
Lower handle"--'_ !
Operator
control bar
FOLD
FORWARD
FOR
STORAGE
MOWING
POSITION
Handle
knob
Lower handle
2 POSITION /"ADJUSTABLE" HANDLES
When setting you handles up from the
storage position, the lower handle will
automatically lock into mowing position.
3 POSITION HANDLES
When setting up your handle from the stor-
age position, the lower handle will require
manually locking into the mowing position.
3 POSITION "EZ"
Knob .-"_ Bolt
_- /Handle
ustment
bracket
3 POSITION "QUICK"
Handle pin
SQUEEZE
/
Handle
adj_
bracket
18

ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It is important to prevent gum
deposits from forming inessential fuel system
parts such as carburetor, fuel filter, fuel hose,
or tankduring storage. Alcohol blended fuels
(called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol)
can attract moisture which leads to separa-
tion and formation of acids during storage.
Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of
an engine while in storage.
• Drain the fuel tank.
o Start the engine and let it run until the
fuel lines and carburetor are empty.
• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
• Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable al-
ternative in minimizing the formation of fuel
gum deposits during storage. Add stabilizer
to gasoline in fuel tank or storage container.
Always follow the mix ratio found onstabilizer
container. Run engine at least 10 minutes
after adding stabilizer to allow the stabilizer
to reach the carburetor. Do not drain the gas
tank and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.
ENGINE OIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace
with clean oil. (See "ENGINE" in the Main-
tenance section of this manual).
CYLINDER
o Remove spark plug_
° Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oil through
spark plug hole into cylinder°
° Pull starter handle slowly to distribute oil.
= Replace with new spark plug_
BATTERY (IF EQUIPPED)
Disconnect the battery from the engine
connector and charge battery 48 hours_
OTHER
• Do not store gasoline from one season
to another.
• Replace your gasoline can if your can
starts to rusL Rust and/or dirt in your
gasoline will cause problems.
•If possible, store your unit indoors and
cover it to protect it from dust and dirt.
•Cover your unit with a suitable protective
cover that does not retain moisture. Do
not use plastic. Plastic cannot breathe,
which allows condensation to form and
will cause your unit to rust.
IMPORTANT: Never cover mower while
engine and exhaust areas are still warm.
_CAUTION: Never store the lawn mower
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.
TROUBLESHOOTING - See appropriate section in manual unless directed
to an authorized Service Center.
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Does not start 1. Dirty air filter. 1, Clean/replace air filter.
2, Out of fuel 2, Fill fuel tank.
3, Stale fuel.
4. Water in fuel.
5_ Spark plug wire is
disconnected.
6. Bad spark plug.
7. Loose blade or broken
blade adapter.
8. Control bar in released
position.
9. Control bar defective.
10.Fuel valve lever (if so
equipped) in OFF position.
11.Weak battery (if equipped).
12_Disconnected battery
connector (if equipped).
3. Drain fuel tank and refill tank
with fresh, clean gasoline.
4. Drain fuel tank and refill tank
with fresh, clean gasoline.
5. Connect wire to plug.
6. Replace spark plug.
7. Tighten blade bolt or
replace blade adapter.
8. Depress control bar to
handle.
9. Replace control bar_
10.Turn fuel valve lever
to the ON position.
11.Charge battery.
12.Connect battery to engine.
19

TROUBLESHOOTING - See appropriate section in manual unless directed
;ervice Center,
CAUSE
to an authorized
PROBLEM
Loss of power
Poor cut -
uneven
Excessive
vibration
Starter rope
hard to pull
1, Rear of lawn mower
housing or cutting blade
dragging in heavy grass,
2, Cutting too much grass,
3. Dirty airfilter,
4. Buildup of grass, leaves,
and trash under mower,
5, Too much oil in engine,
6, Walking speed too fast,
1. Worn, bent or loose blade,
2, Wheel heights uneven,
3. Buildup of grass, leaves
and trash under mower.
1_ Worn, bent or loose blade.
2. Bent engine crankshaft.
2_
3_
4,
Engine flywheel brake is on
when control bar is released.
Bent engine crankshaft,
Blade adapter broken,
Blade dragging in grass.
CORRECTION
1. Raise cutting height.
2_ Raise cutting height,
3. Clean/replace air filter.
4. Clean underside of mower
housing.
5. Check oil level
6. Cut at slower walking speed,
1. Replace blade, Tighten
blade bolt.
2. Set all wheels at same
height,
3, Clean underside of
mower housing.
1. Replace blade. Tighten
blade bolt.
2. Contact a qualified service
center,
1. Depress control bar to
upper handle before
pulling starter rope,
2, Contact a qualified service
center.
3, Replace blade adapter.
4. Move lawn mower to cut
grass or to hard surface.
Grass catcher 1. Cutting height too Iow, 1. Raise cutting height.
not filling 2_ Lift on blade worn off, 2. Replace blade.
(If so equipped) 3_ Catcher not venting air, 3. Clean grass catcher°
Hard to push 1. Raise cutting heighL1. Grass is too high or wheel
height is too low,
2. Rear of lawn mower
housing or cutting blade
dragging in grass.
3_ Grass catcher too full
4_ Handle height position not
right for you.
2, Raise rear of lawn mower
housing one (1) setting
higher.
3. Empty grass catcher.
4. Adjust handle height to suit,