MTD Pro 560 Series User manual

IMPORTANT: READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY
21” Three-in-One
Self-Propelled
Mower
Model
560 Series
Warning: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-
covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting
applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.
In the State 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 engine authorized
service dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 361131 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
FORM NO.
770-10163B.fm
(3/2002)
PRINTED IN U.S.A.

2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Content Page
Important Safe Operation Practices...................................................................3
Slope Gauge......................................................................................................6
Assembling Your Lawn Mower...........................................................................7
Know Your Lawn Mower....................................................................................10
Operating Your Lawn Mower .............................................................................11
Making Adjustments ..........................................................................................13
Maintaining Your Lawn Mower...........................................................................14
Off-Season Storage...........................................................................................16
Troubleshooting.................................................................................................17
Parts List............................................................................................................16
FINDING MODEL NUMBER
This Operator’s Manual is an important part of your new lawn mower. It will help you assemble, prepare and
maintain the unit for best performance. Please read and understand what it says.
Before you start assembling your new equipment, please locate the model plate on the
equipment and copy the information from it in the space provided below. The information on
the model plate is very important if you need help from our Customer Support Department or
an authorized Service dealer.
• You can locate the model number by standing at the operating position and looking down at the rear
of the mower. A sample model plate is explained below. For future reference, please copy the model
number and the serial number of the equipment in the space below.
ENGINE INFORMATION
The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related issues with regards to performance, power-
rating, specifications, warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer’s Owner’s/Operator’s
Manual packed separately with your unit for more information.
CALLING CUSTOMER SUPPORT
If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation or
maintenance of this unit, please call the Customer Support Department.
Call 1- (330) 220-4MTD or 1-(800)-800-7310 to reach a Customer Support representative.
Please have your unit’s model number and serial number ready when you call. See previous
section to locate this information. You will be asked to enter the serial number in order to
process your call.
www.mtdproducts.com
MTD LLC
P. O. BOX 361131
CLEVELAND,OH 44136
330-220-4683
800-800-7310
Copy the model number here:
Copy the serial number here:
(Model Number) (Serial Number)
For more details about your unit, visit our website at www.mtdproducts.com

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SECTION 1: IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES
WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger
the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual
before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal
injury. When you see this symbol—HEED ITS WARNING.
WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit
chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this manual. As with
any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious injury. This
machine is capable of amputating hands and feetand throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instruc-
tions could result in serious injury or death.
General Operation
1. Read this operator’s manual carefully in its entirety
before attemptingto assemble this machine. Read,
understand, and follow all instructions onthe machine
and in the manual(s) before operation. Be completely
familiar with the controls and the proper use of this
machine before operating it. Keepthismanual in a safe
place for futureand regular reference and forordering
replacement parts.
2. This machine is a precision piece of powerequipment,
not aplaything.Therefore,exercise extreme caution at all
times. Your unit has been designed to perform one job: to
mow grass. Do not use it forany other purpose.
3. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate this
machine. Children 14 years old and over should read and
understand the operation instructions and safety rules in
this manual and should betrained and supervised bya
parent. Only responsible individuals whoare familiar with
thesesafe operation rules should use this machine.
4. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to
be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toysand
other foreign objects which could be tripped over or
picked up and thrown by the blade. Thrown objects can
cause serious personal injury. Plan your mowing pattern
to avoid discharge of material toward roads, sidewalks,
bystanders and the like. Also, avoid discharging material
against a wallor obstructionwhich may causedischarged
material to ricochet back toward the operator.
5. To help avoid blade contactor a thrown objectinjury,stay
in the operator zone behind the handles andkeep
bystanders, helpers, children and pets at least 75 feet
from the machine while itis inoperation. Stop machine if
anyone enters the area.
6. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during
operation andwhile performing an adjustmentor repairto
protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can
cause serious injuryto theeyes.
7. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoesand close-fitting
slacks and shirts. Shirts and pants thatcover the arms
and legs andsteel-toedshoes are recommended. Never
operate this machine in bare feet, sandals,slippery or
light weight (e.g. canvas) shoes.
8. Do not puthands orfeet nearrotating parts orunder the
cutting deck. Contact with theblade can amputate hands
and feet.
9. A missing or damaged dischargecover can cause blade
contact or thrown object injuries.
10. Many injuries occur asa result of the mower being pulled
overthe foot during a fall caused by slipping ortripping.
Do not hold on to the mower if you are falling; release the
handle immediately.
11. Never pull the mower back toward you while you are
walking. If you must back the mower away from a wall or
obstruction first look down and behind toavoid tripping
and then follow these steps:
a. Step back from the mower to fully extend your
arms.
b. Be sure you are well balanced with sure footing.
c. Pullthemower backslowly,no morethan half way
toward you.
d. Repeatthese steps as needed.
12. Do not operate the mowerwhile under the influenceof
alcohol or drugs.
13. Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on units
so equipped while starting engine.
14. The blade control handle is a safety device. Never
attempt to bypass itsoperation. Doing so makes the
safety device inoperative and may resultin personal
injury through contact with the rotating blade. The blade
control handle must operate easily in both directions and
automatically return to the disengaged position when
released.
15. Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always be sure of
your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious personal
injury. If youfeel you are losing your footing,release the
bladecontrol handle immediatelyand the blade will stop
rotating within three seconds.
16. Mow in daylight or goodartificial light. Walk, never run.
17. Stop the blade when crossinggraveldrives, walkways
or roads.
18. If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally,stop
the engine andcheck immediately forthe cause.
Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
19. Shut the engineoff andwait until the blade comes to a
complete stop before removing the grass catcher or
unclogging the chute. The cutting blade continues to
rotate fora few seconds after the engine is shut off.
Never place anypart of thebody in theblade area until
you are sure the blade hasstopped rotating.

4
20. Never operate mower without proper trail shield,
discharge cover, grass catcher, blade control handle or
othersafety protective devices in place andworking.
Never operate mower with damaged safety devices.
Failure todo so, can result in personal injury.
21. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do
not touch.
22. Only use parts and accessories made for this machineby
the original equipment manufacturer (O.E.M). Failure to
do so can resultin personal injury.
23. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual,
use care and good judgment. Contact your dealer for
assistance.Telephone [phone] for the name of
your nearest dealer.
Slope Operation
Slopesare a majorfactor related to slip and fall accidents
which can result in severe injury. Operation on slopes
requires extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not
mow it. Before operating this uniton aslope or hillyarea,use
the slope gauge on page 6to measure slopes .If the slope is
greater than 15 degrees, do notmow it.
Do:
1. Mow across theface ofslopes; neverup and down.
Exercise extremecaution when changing direction on
slopes.
2. Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or bumps
whichcan cause you to slip or trip. Tall grass can hide
obstacles.
3. Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause
serious personal injury. Ifyoufeel you are losing your
balance, release the blade control handle immediately,
and the blade willstop rotating within 3 seconds.
Do Not:
1. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments,
you could lose your footing orbalance.
2. Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as shown on
the slope gauge.
3. Do not mow onwet grass. Unstable footing could cause
slipping.
Children
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children.Childrenare often attracted to the
mower and the mowing activity. They do not understand the
dangers. Never assume that children will remain where you
last saw them.
1. Keep children out of the mowingarea andunder the
watchful care of a responsible adult otherthan the
operator.
2. Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area.
3. Before and while moving backwards, look behind and
down for small children.
4. Use extreme care when approaching blind corners,
doorways, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may
obscure your vision ofa child who may run into the
mower.
5. Keep children away from hot or running engines. They
can suffer burns from a hot muffler.
6. Never allow childrenunder 14years old to operate a
power mower.Children 14 years oldand over should
read and understand the operation instructions and
safety rules in this manual and should be trained and
supervised bya parent.
Service
Safe Handling Of Gasoline:
1. To avoid personalinjuryor propertydamage use extreme
care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely
flammable and the vapors are explosive. Serious
personal injury can occur when gasoline is spilled on
yourself oryour clotheswhich can ignite.
2. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.
3. Use onlyan approved gasoline container.
4. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or
trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on
the ground away from your vehicle before filling.
5. 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 trailerwitha
portable container, ratherthan froma gasoline dispenser
nozzle.
6. Keep the nozzle in contactwith the rim of thefuel tank or
containeropeningatalltimesuntilfuelingiscomplete.Do
not use a nozzle lock-open device.
7. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources
of ignition.
8. Never fuel machine indoorsbecause flammable vapors
will accumulate in the area.
9. Never remove gas cap oradd fuel while the engine is hot
or running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes
before refueling.
10. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than ½inch
below bottom offillerneck toprovide space for fuel
expansion.
11. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.
12. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and
equipment. Move unit to another area. Wait 5 minutes
before starting the engine.
13. Never store the machine or fuel container inside where
there is anopen flame, spark orpilot lightason a water
heater, space heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas
appliances.
14. To reduce fire hazard, keep mower free of grass, leaves,
or other debris build-up. Clean up oil orfuelspillage and
remove any fuel soaked debris.
15. Allow amower to cool at least5 minutes before storing.
General Service:
1. Never run an engine indoors or in apoorlyventilated
area. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an
odorless and deadly gas.
2. Before cleaning, repairing, orinspecting, make certain
the blade and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect
the spark plug wireand ground against the engine to
prevent unintended starting.
3. Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at frequent
intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect blade
fordamage (e.g., bent, cracked, worn) Replace blade
withthe original equipmentmanufacture’s(O.E.M.) blade
only,listed in this manual. “Use of parts which do not

5
meet the original equipment specifications may lead to
improper performance and compromise safety!”
4. Mower blades are sharpand can cut. Wrap theblade or
wear gloves,and use extra caution when servicing them.
5. Keep allnuts,bolts, and screws tight to be sure the
equipment is in safe working condition.
6. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly.
7. Afterstriking a foreign object,stop the engine,disconnect
the spark plug wireand ground against the engine.
Thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage. Repair
the damage before starting and operating the mower.
8. Never attempt to makea wheel orcutting height
adjustment while the engine is running.
9. Grass catcher components, discharge cover, and trail
shield aresubjectto wearand damage which could
expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. For
safety protection, frequently check components and
replace immediately with original equipment
manufacturer’s (O.E.M.) parts only, listed in this manual.
“Use of parts which do not meet the original equipment
specificationsmay lead to improperperformanceand
compromise safety!”
10. Do not change the engine governorsetting or overspeed
the engine.The governorcontrols themaximum safe
operating speed of the engine.
11. Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels,as
necessary.
12. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations. Improper
disposal of fluids and materialscan harm the
environment.
Your Responsibility
•Restrictthe use of this power machineto persons who read, understandand follow the warnings andinstructions in
this manual and on the machine.
AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
• KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY FROM ROTATING PARTS.
• REMOVE OBJECTS THAT CAN BE THROWN BY THE
BLADE IN ANY DIRECTION. WEAR SAFETY GLASSES.
• DO NOT MOW WHEN CHILDREN OR OTHERS ARE AROUND.
• USE EXTRA CAUTION ON SLOPES. DO NOT MOW
SLOPES GREATER THAN 15˚. MOW ACROSS NEVER
UP AND DOWN. NEVER PULL MOWER CLOSE TO
YOUR FEET. LOOK DOWN AND BEHIND BEFORE
AND WHILE MOVING BACKWARDS.
READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL . KEEP SAFETY DEVICES (BLADE CONTROL, TRAILING SHIELD,
DISCHARGE COVER, ETC.) IN PLACE AND WORKING. IF DAMAGED, REPLACE IMMEDIATELY.
PLACEMODELPLATEHERE

6
SECTION 2: SLOPE GAUGE
Use this page as a guide to determine slopes where you may not operate the lawn mower safely.
15°
SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE
A POWER POLE
A CORNER OF A BUILDING OR A FENCE POST
FOLDONDOTTEDLINE,REPRESENTINGA15°SLOPE
USE THIS PAGE AS A GUIDE TO DETERMINE SLOPES WHERE YOU MAY NOT OPERATE SAFELY.
Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). A riding mower could overturn and cause serious injury. If operating a walk-behind mower on such a slope, it is extremely difficult to maintain your footing and you could slip, resulting in serious injury. Operate RIDING mowers up and down slopes, never across the face of slopes. Operate WALK-BEHIND mowers across the face of slopes, never up and down slopes.
WARNING

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SECTION 3: ASSEMBLING YOUR LAWN MOWER
To Remove Unit From Carton
•Remove staples, break glue on top flaps, or cut tape
at carton end and peel along top flap to open carton.
•Remove loose parts included with your unit (i.e.,
operator’s manual, etc.).
•Cut along corners and lay carton down flat.
Remove packing material.
•Roll or slide unit out of carton.
Hardware Pack
1. Carriage Bolt 1/4-20 x .75”(2)
2. Wing Nut with Bell Washer (2)
Tools Required
1. Pair of Pliers
2. Funnel
Disconnect Spark Plug Wire
•Before setting up your lawn mower, disconnect the
spark plug wire from the spark plug, and ground it
against the engine. See Figure 1.
NOTE: On engines with a rubber boot, attach rubber
boot to a bolt on the engine to ground.
Figure 1
NOTE: Reference to the right or the left side of the
mower is observed from the operating position.
Setting Up Your Lawn Mower
•Remove the grass catcher from the unit and set it
out of the way. See Figure 2 (step 1).
•Raise the lower handle in the direction shown in
Figure 2 (step 2) till it snaps into place.
•Raise the upper handle in the direction shown in
Figure 2 (step 3). Tighten the wing nuts which are
already on the handle.
Figure 2
NOTE: Your mower is shipped with the handle in the
higher height position. If you wish to lower the height of
the handle, refer to the Adjustment Section at this time.
•Remove the hairpin clips from the outer hole in the
weld pins on the handle mounting brackets. Using a
pair of pliers, squeeze one leg of the lower handle
against the handle mounting bracket. Insert the
hairpin clip into the inner hole on the weld pin.
Repeat on the other side. See Figure 3.
Figure 3
•Insert post on cable ties into holes provided on the
lower handle. Pull the cable tie tight and trim the
excess. See Figure 4.
Figure 4
•The rope guide is attached to the right side of upper
handle. Loosen the wing nut which secures the
rope guide. See Figure 5.
Spark Plug
Wire
Spark Plug
1. Move bag
2. Liftlower
3. Lift upper
handle
away
handle
Handle Mounting
Bracket
Weld
Hairpin
Clip
Insert hairpin
clip here
Pin
Cable Tie
Lower
Handle
Hole on
Post

8
•With spark plug wire disconnected and grounded,
hold the blade control handle against the upper
handle, and pull the starter rope out of the engine.
Release blade control handle.
•Slip the rope into the rope guide as shown below.
Tighten the wing nut holding the rope guide to the
lower handle. See Figure 5.
Figure 5
•After you have moved the hairpin clips as shown in
Figure 3, place one carriage bolt (found in the
hardware pack included with your unit) in the upper
hole of the right handle mounting bracket from the
inside outward. See Figure 6. Secure with one
plastic wing nut. Repeat process on the left side.
Figure 6
Grass Catcher Assembly
NOTE: Make certain the grass bag is turned right side
out before assembling (warning label will be on the
outside).
Parts for Soft Grass Bag
1. Front Frame
2. Rear Frame
3. Bag
Assembling Soft Grass Bag
•Join the rear frame and front frame assembly as
shown in Figure 7A.
•Place the bag over the frame (black plastic side is
the bottom of bag). Slip the openings in the side of
the plastic channels on the bag over the hooks on
the grass catcher frame.
•Secure bag to frame by working the plastic
channels on bag over frame as shown in Figure 7B.
All of the plastic channels except the center top of
the bag attach from the outside of bag. The center
top of the bag attaches from inside the bag.
Figure 7
Parts for Hardtop Grass Bag
1. Rear Frame (packed inside hardtop cover)
2. Front Frame
3. Bag
4. Hardtop Cover
5. Mounting Bracket
6. Hex Lock Nut
7. Phillips Screw
Assembling Hardtop Grass Bag
•Insert one end of the rear frame into the slit in the
cloth channel on the edge of the grass bag (slits are
approximately 6 inches from the end of the bag).
See Figure 8A. Feed all the bag material on one
side of the frame before working it around frame.
Make certain the other end ofrear frame comes out
the slit in the other side. See Figure 8B.
Figure 8
•Slide the ends of the front frame assembly into the
ends of the rear frame as shown in Figure 9A. The
handle of the front frame assembly should be away
from the black plastic bottom of the bag. Push the
two frames together until the cross piece on the
front frame contacts the rear frame.
Slip rope into
rope guide
Wing Nut
Rope
Guide
Wing Nut
Carriage
Upper
Hole
Hairpin Clip
Bolt
Front
Frame
Assembly
Rear
Frame
Bag
Hook
Plastic
Channels
AB
Frame
Note: Bag-Fill Indicator, shown
here, is an optional item
Rear Frame
Slit
A
B

9
•Slip the openings in the side of the plastic channel
on the bag over hooks on the grass catcher frame.
See Figure 9B.
•Secure front of bag to front frame by working the
five plastic channels on bottom, sides and top of
bag over frame.
Figure 9
•Hold the bag and frame so the bag hangs from the
frame (is not bunched around the frame). Slide the
handle on the grass catcher frame down into the
slot in the hardtop cover as shown in Figure 10.
Figure 10
•Press the rear frame into the two tabs at the back of
the hardtop cover and the cross bar on the front
frame into the channel on the front of the hardtop
cover. Some force may be required.
Figure 11
•Place the mounting bracket under the front of the
handle, with the tabs on the bracket facing up.
Insert phillips head screws down through the
hardtop cover and mounting bracket. Secure with
hex lock nuts. See Figure 11.
Attaching Grass Catcher To Mower
NOTE: The mulching baffle is already in place on the
mower for shipping purposes. Your lawn mower is
equipped with both a mulching baffle and a mulching
plug. While the mulching baffle is located at the rear of
the mower, the mulching plug is located on the right
side of the cutting deck. Do not remove the mulching
plug from the mower even when you are not mulching
the grass.
•To remove the mulching baffle, lift the rear
discharge door on the mower. Remove the
mulching baffle. See Figure 12
Figure 12
IMPORTANT: Make sure cables are routed to the
outside of the handle so they are not in the way when
attaching the grass catcher.
•Lift the rear discharge door on the mower.
•Place the hooks, found on both sides of the grass
catcher frame, over the chute door pivot rod atthe
rear of the mower. See Figure 13. Release the rear
discharge door.
•To remove the grass catcher, lift the rear
discharge door on the mower. Lift the grass catcher
up and off the pivot rod. Reinstall the mulching
baffle and release the rear discharge door. See
Figure 13.
WARNING: Never operate the mower
unless the hooks on the grass catcher are
firmly seated on the chute pivot rod, and the
rear discharge door rests firmly against the
top of the grass catcher
Black
Plastic
Bottom
Handle
Hook
B
A
Slot In
Hardtop
Cover
Grass
Catcher
Handle
Phillips
Head
Screw
Mounting
Bracket
Hex Lock
Nut
Mulching
Baffle
Deck

10
Figure 13
Converting To Side Discharge
•Lift the rear discharge door and install the mulching
baffle. See Figure 12.
•On the side of the mower, lift the mulching plug.
See Figure 14.
•Slide the two hooks of the side discharge chute
under the hinge pin on the mulching plug assembly
as shown in Figure 14. Lower the side mulching
plug.
•Do not remove the side mulching plug at any time,
even when you are not mulching.
Figure 14
SECTION 4: KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
Compare Figure 15 with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the location of controls and adjustments.
WARNING: The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign objects being thrown into the eyes,
which can result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields.
Figure 15
Discharge Door
Grass Bag
Hinge Pin
Mulching Plug
Hook
Deflector
(Slide hooks under the two
sides of hinge pin)
Grass Catcher
Recoil Starter
Lower Bail Handle
Blade Control Handle
Mulching
Chute
Side-Discharge
Plug
Height Adjustment
Levers
Height Adjustment
Levers
Gasoline
Oil
Throttle Control (If Equipped)

11
Blade Control Handle
WARNING: This control mechanism is a
safety device. Never attempt to bypass its
operations.
The blade control handle is located on the upper handle
of the mower and must be depressed in order to
operate the unit. Release it to stop engine and blade.
Recoil Starter
The recoil starter handle is attached to the handle and
is used to start the engine. See Figure 15.
Grass Catcher
The grass catcher,located at the rear of the mower,is
used to bag the grass clippings for disposal at another
site. Once the bag is full, it has to be removed from the
mower and emptied before any further mowing.
Cutting Height Adjustment Lever
This lever, located at each wheel, lets you adjust
cutting height of the grass. Remember to put all four
levers at the same height to avoid uneven cut.
Mulching Plug
Both the mulching baffle and the mulching plug are
used only for mulching purposes. Instead of collecting
the grass clippings in a grass catcher, your mower has
the option of recirculating the clippings back to the
lawn. This is called mulching. See Figure 15.
Lower Bail Handle
The lower bail handle is located on the upper handle
and is used to engage the drive. Squeeze the bail
handle against the upper handle to engage the drive;
release it to slow down or stop the mower from
propelling. See Figure 15.
Throttle Speed
Your lawn mower engine is equipped with a constant
speed throttle, which is set at full throttle for best
performance. See Figure 15.
Throttle Control (If Equipped)
The throttle control lever is located on the left upper
handle and is used to regulate engine speed. Moving
the throttle lever all the way forward activates the
choke. The choke is used to close the choke plate on
the carburetor and assist in starting a cold engine. It
may not be necessary to use it when restarting a warm
engine after a short shutdown.
WARNING: The throttle control cannot
be used to stop the engine. Do not adjust
throttle control with the engine running.
SECTION 5: OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER
WARNING: Keep hands and feet away
from the chute area on cutting deck. The
blade will be rotating whenever the engine is
running.
Be sure no one other than the operator is
standing near the lawn mower while starting
engine or operating mower.
Never run engine indoors or in enclosed,
poorly ventilated areas. Engine exhaust
contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and
deadly gas.
When starting the unit for the first time, face
the mower against a solid object such as a
wall, fence, etc. Start the unit and if it shows
any signs of motion while the drive clutch
control is still disengaged, shut the engine off
immediately.
Gas and Oil Fill-Up
•Service the mower engine with gasoline and oil
following instructions in the engine manual. If your
mower was shipped with oil in the engine, fill up the
required amount of gasoline only. Always make
sure there is adequate oil in the engine before
starting the engine.
WARNING: Never fill fuel tank indoors,
with engine running or until the engine has
been allowed to cool for at least two minutes
after running.
Adjusting Cutting Height
•Your mower was shipped at the lowest cutting
height. For best results in mowing, keep the cutting
height position high until it is determined which
height is best for your lawn.
•Refer to height adjustments section of this manual
on page 13 for instruction on how to adjust the
cutting height and the handle height.
Before Starting Mower
•Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. Make certain
the metal cap on the end of the spark plug wire
(inside the rubber boot) is fastened securely over
the metal tip on the spark plug.

12
Starting Engine
For models equipped with Honda engine:
•Make sure the fuel valve lever found on the left side
of the engine is in the ON position. See Figure 16.
Figure 16
•Move the throttle control/choke lever all the way
forward into the choke position. A warmengine may
not require choking. If the engine is already warm
as a result of recent operation, just move the
throttle into the rabbit position and allow it to remain
there.
For all models:
•Push primer three times. Wait about two seconds
between each push. In cold weather around 55oF
or below, prime five times. Do not prime to restart a
warm engine after a short shutdown.
•Standing behind the mower, depress the blade
control handle and hold it against the upper handle.
•Grasp starter handle and pull rope out slowly until
engine reaches the start of compression cycle
(rope will pull slightly harder at this point). Let the
rope rewind slowly. Pull rope with a rapid,
continuous, full arm stroke. Keeping a firm grip on
the starter handle, let the rope rewind slowly.
•Once the engine has started, squeeze the lower
bail handle and the blade control handle against the
upper handle to run the mower.
To Stop Engine and Blade
•Release the blade control handle to stop the engine
and blade.
WARNING: The blade continues to rotate
for a few seconds after engine is shut off.
•Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it
against the engine to prevent accidental starting
while equipment is unattended.
Using Your Rotary Mower
WARNING: Never operate your unit without
either the rear deflector or entire grass catcher
assembly in place.
•Be sure that lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or
other objects which could damage lawn mower or
engine. Such objects could be accidentally thrown
by the mower in any direction and cause serious
personal injury to the operator and others.
•For best results, do not cut wet grass because it
tends to stick to the underside of the mower,
preventing proper discharge of grass clippings, and
could cause you to slip and fall. New grass, thick
grass or wet grass may require a narrower cut.
•Blade speed should be adjusted to the condition of
the lawn.
•For a healthy lawn, never cut more than one-thirdof
the length of the grass at any one cutting. Lawn
should be cut in the fall as long as there is growth.
•This mower is designed to be operated at full
throttle to give you the best cut and do the most
effective job of bagging the cut grass.
WARNING: If you strike a foreign object,
stop the engine. Remove wire from spark plug
and ground it. Thoroughly inspect the mower
for any damage, and repair the damage
before restarting and operating the mower
again.
Using the Mulcher
•For effective mulching, do not cut wet grass
because it tends to stick to the underside of the
deck, preventing proper mulching of grass
clippings. New or thick grass may require a
narrower cut. The ground speed should be
adjusted to the condition of the lawn. If mowing has
been delayed and the grass has been allowed to
grow in excess of 4", mulching is not
recommended. Mow using the grass bag to reduce
the grass height to 3-1/4" maximum before
mulching.
Primer
OFF
ON
Fuel Valve Lever

13
SECTION 6: MAKING ADJUSTMENTS
WARNING: Do not at any time make any
adjustment to lawn mower without first
stopping engine and disconnecting spark plug
wire.
Handle Height
Your mower is shipped with the handle in the higher
height position.To lower the handle height for your
convenience, proceed as follows.
Figure 17
•Remove the starter rope from the rope guide.
•Remove the upper handle by removing the hand
knobs and carriage bolts. Lay the upper handle out
of the way, being careful not to bend or kink cables.
•Remove the hairpin clips from the weld pins on the
handle brackets. Press outward on the legs of the
lower handle, and remove it from the mower.
•Remove carriage bolts and wing nuts from the two
handle brackets on both sides.
•Turn the lower handle around so the notches on the
bottom of the lower handle are facing forward as
shown in Figure 17. Reassemble, placing the
bottom holes in the handle over the weld pins inthe
handle mounting bracket.
•Reassemble the upper handle.
•Place the hairpin clips in the inner holes in the weld
pins. Secure carriage bolts and wing nuts on the
handle brackets. Reattach the starter rope.
Carburetor
WARNING: If any adjustments are made
to the engine while the engine is running (e.g.
carburetor), keep clear of all moving parts
and heated surfaces (e.g. muffler).
Minor carburetor adjustments may be required to
compensate for differences in fuel, temperature,
altitude and load. To adjust carburetor, refer to the
engine manual.
NOTE: A dirty air cleaner will cause an engine to run
rough. Be certain air cleaner is clean and attached to
the carburetor before adjusting carburetor.
Cutting Height
An adjusting plate and thumb lever at each wheel
position provides cutting height adjustment. Each
adjusting plate has nine height positions. Height of cut
will be changed when the thumb lever is moved from
one hole to another.
•Simply depress the lever towards wheel and move
wheel and lever assembly to desired position. All
wheels must be placed in the same relative
position. See Figure 18.
Figure 18
Notch
Lower
Handle
Height
Adjustment
Lever

14
SECTION 7: MAINTAINING YOUR LAWN MOWER
Replacing Rear Flap
•To remove rear flap, cut off the flat end of the wire
rod which secures it to the deck. See Figure 19.
•Attach the new flap and new rod to deck, bending
the ends of the new rod over to secure to deck.
Figure 19
Deck Care
NOTE: We do not recommend the use of pressure
washers or garden hose to clean your unit.These may
cause damage to electric components, spindles,
pulleys, bearings or the engine. The use of water will
shorten life of the mower and reduce its serviceability.
•The underside of the mower deck should be
cleaned after each use to prevent a build-up of
grass clippings, leaves, dirt or other matter. If this
debris is allowed to accumulate, it will invite rust
and corrosion, and may cause an uneven
discharge of grass clippings at the next cutting.
•The deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower and
scraping clean with asuitable tool(makecertain the
spark plug wire is disconnected).
Engine
A list of key maintenance jobs required for good
performance by the mower is given below. Follow the
accompanying engine manual for detailed list and
instructions.
•Change engine oil after the first two operating
hours and every 25 operating hours thereafter.
Always check oil level before starting engine.
•Clean the engine periodically. Remove dirt and
debris with a cloth or brush. We do not recommend
the use of pressure washers or garden hose to
clean your unit.These may cause damage to
electric components, spindles, pulleys, bearings or
the engine. The use of water will shorten life of the
mower and reduce its serviceability.
•Clean the spark plug and reset the gap to .030”at
least once a season or every 50 hours of operation.
Spark plug replacement is recommended at the
start of each season. Refer to the engine manual
for correct spark plug type.
•Inspect muffler periodically, and replace if
necessary. Damaged mufflers or spark arresters
can create a fire hazard.
WARNING: Make sure to avoid muffler and
surrounding areas while the mower engine is
hot because temperature of these areas of the
engine may exceed 150oF.
Lubrication
(Refer to Lubrication Chart in Figure 20.)
WARNING: Always stop engine and
disconnect spark plug wire before cleaning,
lubricating or doing any kind of work on lawn
mower.
Blade Control
•Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control
handle and the brake cable at least once a season
with light oil. The blade control must operate freely
in both directions.
Rear & Side Discharge Doors
•The torsion springs and pivot points should be
lubricated periodically with light oil to prevent any
rust or binding. Door must work freely.
NOTE: When tipping the unit, empty the fuel tank and
keep engine spark plug side up.
Figure 20: Lubrication Chart
Handle
Bracket
Handle
Bracket
Rear Discharge
Door
Rear
WireRod
Flap
Lube
Lube
Lube

15
Wheels
•The wheels require no lubrication. However, if the
wheels are removed for any reason, lubricate the
surface of the axle bolt and the inner surface of the
wheel with light oil. Engine oil may also be used.
Transmission
•The transmission is pre-lubricated and sealed at
the factory and does not require lubrication on a
regular basis as part of maintenance. However, if
you disassemble the transmission for any reason,
refill with two ounces of Alvania grease (part # 737-
0168) as part of reassembly.
Engine
•Follow engine manual for instruction and schedule
of lubrication.
Blade Care
•Periodically inspect the blade adapter and pulley
for cracks, especially if you strike a foreign object.
Replace when necessary.
WARNING: When removing the cutting
blade for sharpening or replacement, protect
hands by using heavy gloves or a thick rag to
grasp the cutting blade.
•Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug.
To Remove Blade
•Remove the bolt and bell washer which hold the
blade-pulley assembly to the engine crankshaft.
See Figure 21. Remove assembly from crankshaft.
•Remove the two bolts and lock nuts from the blade
assembly.
•Remove the blade from the blade adapter and
pulley.
To Replace Blade:
•Before reinstalling the blade-pulley assembly to the
unit, lubricate engine crankshaft and inner surface
of the blade adapter with light oil or engine oil.
•Turn mower on its side making sure that the airfilter
and the carburetor are up.
Figure 21
•Also lubricate the bolt holes, bolt and the inner
surface of the nuts.
•Install the blade adapter onthe pulley with the “star”
away from the pulley. See Figure 21.
•Place the new blade on the blade adapter with the
side marked bottom (or with part number) facing
away from the adapter.
•Secure the blade to the assembly with two hex
bolts and lock nuts. Tighten the hex bolts to the
recommended torque. Refer to ‘Blade Mounting
Torque’section on this page.
•Install the blade assembly on the crankshaft. See
Figure 21. Secure with the hex bolt and bell washer
(cupped side of washer to blade) and tighten to the
recommended torque. Refer to ‘Blade Mounting
Torque’section on this page.
IMPORTANT: The bolt, used to secure the blade to the
engine,isspeciallyheat-treated.Do not substitute. To
order replacement bolt, refer to the parts list in the back
of this manual.
WARNING: To ensure safe operation of
your lawn mower, check all nuts and bolts
periodically and tighten if necessary.
To Sharpen Blade:
•The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a
grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen the
blade while it is still on the mower.
•Follow the original angle of grind as a guide. Make
sure that each cutting edge receives an equal
amount of grinding to prevent an unbalanced blade.
NOTE: An unbalanced blade will cause excessive
vibration when rotating at high speeds, may cause
damage to the mower and could break, causing
personal injury.
•The blade can be tested by balancing it on a round
shaft screwdriver. See Figure 22. Remove metal
from the heavy side until it balances evenly. It is
recommended that the blade always be removed
from the adapter for the best test of balance.
Figure 22
Blade Mounting Torque:
Blade adapter bolts: 120 in.lbs. minimum, 150 in.lbs.
maximum.
Center bolt: 450 in.lbs. minimum, 600 in.lbs. maximum.
Lock Nut
Lock Nut Pulley
Assembly
Blade
Adapter
Blade
Bell
Washer
Hex Bolt
Hex Bolt
Hex Bolt
1. Insert screw driver through hole
2. Blade should be parallel to ground
Screw
Driver
Ground
Blade

16
Replacing Drive Belt
Figure 23
•Remove two shoulder screws securing the front
drive cover to the mower deck. See Figure 23.
•Press inward on the sides ofthe front drive cover
and release the tabs that secure the front drive
cover to the height adjuster brackets. Remove drive
cover from the mower.
•Using a torx wrench, loosen the screw holding the
belt tension spring to the transmission. See Figure
23. Do not remove the screw completely. As you
loosen the screw, the tension on the belt will be
released.
•Push the transmission up a little and slide the belt
off the transmission pulley.
•Lift themower to access the belt from the underside
of the mower.
•Slide the belt off the engine pulley and around the
blade. See Figure 24.
•Replace with the new belt, working around the
blade. Make sure the belt is firmly seated on the
engine pulley while pulling from the other side and
sliding it around the transmission pulley.
•Put the mower down with all four wheels firmly
placed on one level.
•Tighten the screw, loosened earlier, to secure the
belt tension spring to the transmission, and
reassemble the front drive cover.
NOTE: Begin idler reassembly by inserting bolt up
through the idler bracket hole. Adjust the drive clutch
following instructions on page 13.
Figure 24
SECTION 8: OFF-SEASON STORAGE
If you are not going to use the mower for more than 30
days or more, prepare the equipment for storage.
•Clean and lubricatemower thoroughly as described
in the lubrication instructions.
•Refer to accompanying engine manual for engine
storage instructions.
•Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis grease to
prevent rusting.
•Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next
to corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.
NOTE: When storing any type of power equipment in
an unventilated or metal storage shed, care should be
taken to rust-proof the equipment. Using a light oil or
silicone, coat the equipment, especially cables and all
moving parts.
Loosen this screw
Shoulder
Shoulder
Screw
Screw Front Drive
Cover
Belt
Transmission
Remove belt
Engine
Pulley
from around
pulley and
Hex Bolt
blade

17
SECTION 9: TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE
Trouble Possible Cause(s) Corrective Actions
Engine fails to
start 1. Blade control handle disengaged 2. Spark plug wire disconnected
3. Dirty air cleaner
4. Primer button not depressed
5. Fuel tank empty or stale fuel
6. Blocked fuel line
7. Faulty spark plug
8. Engine flooded
1. Engage blade control handle.
2. Connect wire to spark plug.
3. Refer to the engine manual.
4. Refer to the engine manual.
5. Clean fuel line.
6. Clean, adjust gap or replace.
7. Refer to the engine manual.
8. Wait for a while and crank the engine.
Engine runs
erratic 1. Spark plug wire loose 2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel
3. Carburetor out of adjustment
1. Connect and tighten spark plug wire. Check for fouling.
2. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.
3. Refer to the engine manual.
Engine
overheats 1. Engine oil level low 2. Dirty aircleaner
3. Air flow restricted
4. Carburetor not adjusted properly
1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.
2. Refer to the engine manual.
3. Stop engine and disconnect spark plug wire. Remove
blower housing and clean.
4. Refer to the engine manual.
Occasional skip
at high speed 1. Spark pluggap too close 2. Carburetor adjustment improperly set 1. Adjust gap to .030". 2. Refer to the engine manual.
Idles poorly 1. Spark plugfouled,faulty orgap toowide
2. Carburetor not adjusted 1. Reset gap to .030" or replace spark plug. 2. Refer to the engine manual.
Excessive
vibration 1. Cutting blade looseor unbalanced 2. Bent cutting blade 1. Tighten blade and adapter. Balance blade. 2. See an authorized servicedealer.
Mower will not
mulch grass 1. Wet grass 2. Excessively high grass 1. Wait until later to cut. 2. Mow once at a high cutting height, then mow again at
desired height.
Uneven cut 1. Wheels positionedincorrectly
2. Dull blade 1. Place all four wheels in same height position. 2. Sharpen or replace blade.

23

MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR:
The limited warranty set forth below is given by MTD LLC with
respect to new merchandise purchased and used in the
United States, its possessions and territories.
MTD LLC warrants this product against defects for a period of
two (2) years commencing on thedate of original purchase
and will, at its option, repair or replace, free of charge, any
partfound to be defective in materials or workmanship. This
limited warrantyshallonly apply if this product has been
operated and maintained in accordance with theOperator’s
Manual furnishedwith the product, and has not been subject
to misuse, abuse, commercial use, neglect, accident,
improper maintenance, alteration, vandalism, theft, fire,
water, or damage becauseof other perilor natural disaster.
Damage resultingfrom the installation or use ofany
accessory or attachmentnot approved by MTD LLC for use
withthe product(s) covered by this manual will void your
warranty as to any resulting damage.
Normal wear parts or components thereof are subject to
separate terms as follows: All normal wear parts or
component failures will be covered on the productfor a period
of 90 days regardless of cause. After 90 days, but within the
two year period, normal wear part failures will be covered
ONLY IF causedby defects in materials orworkmanship of
OTHER component parts. Normal wear parts and
components include, but are not limited to: batteries, belts,
blades, blade adapters, grass bags, rider deck wheels, seats,
snow thrower skid shoes,shave plates,auger spiralrubber,
and tires.
HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available,
WITH PROOF OF PURCHASE,through yourlocal authorized
service dealer. To locate the dealer in yourarea,check your
Yellow Pages, or contact MTD LLC at P.O. Box 361131,
Cleveland, Ohio44136-0019, or call1-800-800-7310 or 1-
330-220-4683 or log on to our Web site at
www.mtdproducts.com.
Thislimited warranty does not provide coverage inthe
following cases:
a. The engineor component parts thereof. Theseitems
carry a separatemanufacturer’s warranty. Refer to
applicable manufacturer’s warrantyfor terms and
conditions.
b. Log splitter pumps,valves, and cylinders have a sepa
rate one year warranty.
c. Routinemaintenance items such as lubricants, filters,
blade sharpening, tune-ups, brake adjustments, clutch
adjustments, deck adjustments, and normal
deterioration of the exterior finish due to useor
exposure.
d. MTD LLC doesnot extend any warranty for products
sold orexported outside ofthe United States, its
possesions and territories, except those sold through
MTD LLC’s authorized channels of export distribution.
e. Parts that are not genuine MTD parts are not covered
by this warranty.
f. Service completed by someone other thanan
authorized service dealer is not covered by this
warranty.
g. Transportation charges and service calls are not
covered.
No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of
merchantability of fitness for a particular purpose,
applies after the applicable period of express written
warranty above as to the parts as identified. No other
express warranty, whether written or oral, except as
mentioned above, given by any person or entity,
including a dealer or retailer, with respect to any product,
shall bind MTD LLC. During the period of the warranty,
the exclusive remedy is repair or replacement of the
product as set forth above.
The provisions as set forth in this warranty provide the
sole and exclusive remedy arising from the sale. MTD
LLC shall not be liable for incidental or consequential
loss or damage including, without limitation, expenses
incurred for substitute or replacement lawn care services
or for rental expenses to temporarily replace a warranted
product.
Some states do not allow theexclusion orlimitation of
incidental or consequential damages, or limitationson how
long animplied warranty lasts, so the above exclusions or
limitations may not apply to you.
In no event shallrecovery of any kind be greaterthan the
amount ofthe purchase price of the product sold. Alteration
of safety features of the product shall void this warranty.
You assume the risk and liability for loss, damage,or injury to
you and your property and/or to others and their property
arisingout of themisuse orinability to use the product.
This limited warranty shallnot extendto anyone other thanthe
originalpurchaser or to the person for whom it was purchased
as a gift.
HOW STATE LAW RELATES TO THIS WARRANTY: This
limited warranty gives youspecific legal rights, and you may
also have other rights which vary from state to state.
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019; Phone: [phone]