MTD Series 580 User manual

OPERATOR'S MANUAL
21" Rear Discharge
Rotary Mower
Model Series 580
IMPORTANT: READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY
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
PRINTED IN U.S.A. FORM NO. 770-10113E
(11/2001)

TABLEOFCONTENTS
Content Page
Important Safe Operation Practices ................................................................... 3
Slope Gauge ...................................................................................................... 6
Assembling Your Lawn Mower ........................................................................... 7
Know Your Lawn Mower .................................................................................... 9
Operating Your Lawn Mower ............................................................................. 9
Making Adjustments .......................................................................................... 11
Maintaining Your Lawn Mower ........................................................................... 11
Troubleshooting ................................................................................................. 14
Parts List ............................................................................................................ 16
FINDINGMODELNUMBER
This Operator's Manual is an important part of your new lawn mower. It wilt help you assemble, prepare and
maintain the unit for best performance. Please read and understand what it says.
Before you start assembling your new equipment, please locate the model plate on the
equipment and copy the information from it in the space provided below. The information on
the model plate is very important if you need help from our Customer Support Department or
an authorized dealer.
You can locate the model number by looking down at the rear of the deck. 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.
Copy the model number here:
Copy the serial number here:
ENGINEINFORMATION
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.
CALLINGCUSTOMERSUPPORT
If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation or
maintenance of this unit, please call the Customer Support Department.
Call 1- (330) 220-4MTD (4683) or 1- (800)-800-7310 to reach a Customer Support
representative. Please have your unit's model number and serial number ready when you
call. See previous section to locate this information. You will be asked to enter the serial
number in order to process your call.

SECTION1: IMPORTANTSAFEOPERATIONPRACTICES
WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could
endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in
this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may
result in personal injury. When you see this symbol - heed its warning.
WARNING: Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle
components contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer
and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this
manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can
result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects.
Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
GeneralOperation
1. Read this operator's manual carefully in its entirety
before attempting to assemble this machine. Read,
understand, and follow all instructions on the machine
and in the manual(s) before operation. Be completely
familiar with the controls and the proper use of this
machine before operating it. Keep this manual in a safe
place for future and regular reference and for ordering
replacement parts.
2. This machine is a precision piece of power equipment,
not a plaything. Therefore, exercise extreme caution at all
times. Your unit has been designed to perform one job: to
mow grass. Do not use it for any 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 be trained and supervised by a
parent. Only responsible individuals who are familiar with
these rules of safe operation should be allowed to use
this machine.
4. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to
be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys and
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 wall or obstruction which may cause
discharged material to ricochet back toward the operator.
5. To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury, stay
in the operator zone behind the handles and keep
children, bystanders, helpers and pets at least 75 feet
from the mower while it is in operation. Stop machine if
anyone enters the area.
6. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during
operation and while performing an adjustment or repair to
protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can
cause serious injury to the eyes.
7. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting
slacks and shirts. Shirts and pants that cover the arms
and legs and steel-toed shoes are recommended. Never
operate this machine in bare feet, sandals, slippery or
light weight (e.g. canvas) shoes. 19.
3
8. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the
cutting deck. Contact with the blade can amputate hands
and feet.
9. A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade
contact or thrown object injuries.
10. Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being pulled
over the foot during a fall caused by slipping or tripping.
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. Ifyou must back the mower away from a wall or
obstruction first look down and behind to avoid 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. Pull the mower back slowly, no more than half way
toward you.
d. Repeat these steps as needed.
12. Do not operate the mower while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
13. Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on units so
equipped while starting engine.
14. The blade control handle is asafetydevice. Never
attempt to bypass its operation. Doing so makes the
safety device inoperative and may result in 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 you feel you are losing your footing, release the
blade control handle immediately and the blade will stop
rotating within three seconds.
16. Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light. Walk, never
run.
17. Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walks or
roads.
18. If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop
the engine and check immediately for the cause.
Vibration is generally awarning of trouble.
Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes to a
complete stop before removing the grass catcher or

uncloggingthechute.Thecuttingbladecontinuesto
rotateforafewsecondsaftertheengineisshutoff.Never
placeanypartofthebodyinthebladeareauntilyouare 5.
surethebladehasstoppedrotating.
20.Neveroperatemowerwithoutpropertrailshield, 6.
dischargecover,grasscatcher,bladecontrolhandleor
othersafetyprotectivedevicesinplaceandworking.
Neveroperatemowerwithdamagedsafetydevices.
Failuretodoso,canresultinpersonalinjury.
21.Mufflerandenginebecomehotandcancauseaburn.Do
nottouch. Service
22. Only use parts and accessories made for this machine by
the manufacturer. Failure to do so, can result in personal
injury.
23. If sitcations 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.
SlopeOperation
Slopes are a major factor 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. For your safety, use the slope gauge included as part
of this manual to measure slopes before operating this unit on
a sloped or hilly area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees,
do not mow it.
Do:
1. Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down.
Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on
slopes.
2. Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or bumps
which can 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. If you feel you are losing your
balance, release the blade control handle immediately,
and the blade will stop rotating within 3 seconds.
DONot:
1. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments, you
could lose your footing or balance.
2. Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as shown on
the slope gauge.
3. Do not mow on wet grass. Unstable footing could cause
slipping.
Children
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children. Children are 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 mowing area and under the
watchful care of a responsible adult other than 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 of a child who may run into the
mower.
Keep children away from hot or running engines. They
can suffer burns from a hot muffler.
Never allow children under 14 years old to operate a
power mower. Children 14 years old and over should
read and understand the operation instructions and
safety rules in this manual and should be trained and
supervised by a parent.
Safe HandlingOfGasoline:
1. To avoid personal injuryor property damage 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 or your clothes which can ignite.
2. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.
3. Use only an approved gasoline container.
4. Never fill containers inside avehicle or on a truck or
trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on
the ground away from your vehicle before filling.
5. When practical, remove gas-powered equipment from
the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not
possible, then refuel such equipment on a trailer with a
portable container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser
nozzle,
6. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or
container opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do
not use a nozzle lock-open device.
7. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources
of ignition.
8. Never fuel machine indoors because flammable vapors
will accumulate in the area.
9. Never remove gas cap or add 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 ½ inch
below bottom of filler neck to provide space for fuel
expansion.
11. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.
12. ffgasoline is spilled, wipe itoff 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 an open flame, spark or pilot light as on a water
heater, space heater, furnace ,clothes dryer or other gas
appliances.
14. To reduce fire hazard, keep mower freeof grass, leaves,
or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage and
remove any fuel soaked debris.
15. Allow a mower to cool at least 5 minutes before storing.
General Service:
1. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated
area. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an
odorless and deadly gas.
2. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain
the blade and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect
the spark plug wire and ground against the engine to
prevent unintended starting.
3. Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at frequent

intervalsforpropertightness.Also,visuallyinspectblade
fordamage(e.g.,bent,cracked,worn)Replaceblade
withtheoriginalequipmentmanufacture's(O.E.M)blade
only,listedinthismanual."Useofpartswhichdonot
meettheoriginalequipmentspecificationsmayleadto
improperperformanceandcompromisesafety!"
4. Mowerbladesaresharpandcancut.Wrapthebladeor
weargloves,anduseextracautionwhenservicingthem.
5. Keepallnuts,bolts,andscrewstighttobesurethe
equipmentisinsafeworkingcondition.
6. Nevertamperwithsafetydevices.Checktheirproper
operationregularly.
7. Afterstrikingaforeignobject,stoptheengine,disconnect
thesparkplugwireandgroundagainsttheengine.
Thoroughlyinspectthemowerforanydamage.Repair
thedamagebeforestartingandoperatingthemower.
8. Neverattempttomakeawheelorcuttingheight
adjustmentwhiletheengineisrunning.
9. Grasscatchercomponents,dischargecover,andtrail
shieldaresubjecttowearanddamagewhichcould
exposemovingpartsorallowobjectstobethrown.For
safetyprotection,frequentlycheckcomponentsand
replaceimmediatelywithoriginalequipment
manufacturer's(O.EM.)partsonly,listedinthismanual.
"Useofpartswhichdonotmeettheoriginalequipment
specificationsmayleadtoimproperperformanceand
compromisesafety!"
10.Donotchangetheenginegovernorsettingoroverspeed
theengine.Thegovernorcontrolsthemaximumsafe
operatingspeedoftheengine.
11.Maintainorreplacesafetyandinstructionlabels,as
necessary.
12.Observeproperdisposallawsandregulations.Improper
disposaloffluidsandmaterialscanharmthe
environment.
_, WARNING -YOUR RESPONSIBILITY: Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read,
understand and follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.
NOTE: Not aft safety labels may apply to your lawn mower.

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A POWER POLE
A CORNER OF A BUILDING
OR A FENCE POST
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._. "& WARNING
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co .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
Z_c_ overturn and cause serious injury. Ifoperating a walk=behindmower on such a slope, it is extremely difficultto maintain your footingco O
o. -_ 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.
_D

SECTION3: ASSEMBLINGYOURLAWNMOWER
IMPORTANT: This unit is shipped without gasoline or oil
in the engine. Be certain to service engine with gasoline
and oil as instructed in the separate engine manual
before operating your mower.
NOTE: Reference to right or left hand side of the mower
is observed from the operating position.
RemovingUnitFromCarton
Remove staples, break glue on top flaps, or cut
tape at carton end and peel along top flap to open
carton.
Remove loose parts if included with unit (i.e.,
operator's manual, etc.)
Cut along corners, lay carton down fiat, and remove
packing material.
Roll or slide unit out ofcarton and check carton
thoroughly for loose parts.
DisconnectingSparkPlugWire
Before setting up your lawn mower, disconnect the
spark plug wire from the spark plug and ground against
the engine. See Figure 1.
Bolt
Spark /
Plug Wire
Figure 1
SettingUpYourLawnMower
AssemblingHandle
Lift up and pullback on the upper handle to raise
the handle intothe operating position.Make certain
the lower handle isseated securely intothe handle
bracket assemblies. Tighten the wing nuts on each
side of the handle (carriage bolts must be seated
properly intothe handle). See Figure 2.
NOTE: Your mower is shipped with the handle in the
higher position. If you wish to lower the height of the
handle, refer to the Adjustment Section at this time.
Figure 2
Remove the hairpin clipsfrom the outer hole in the
weld pinson 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 intothe inner hole on the weld pin.
Repeat on the other side. See Figure 3.
After moving the hairpin clip, insert the carriage bolt
from hardware pack in the upper hole on the handle
mounting bracket and secure with plastic wing nut
from the hardware pack. Repeat on other side.
Wing Nut
_arriage Bolt
._ Handle
Mounting Bracket
/
f
Hairpin Clipf
_Weld Pin
Figure 3
Fasten the cable to the lower handle with the two
cable ties found on the lower handle. Pull the cable
ties tight and trim offthe excess. See Figure 4.
Cable Tie_ _.
Figure 4

AttachingStarter Rope
The rope guide is attached tothe right side ofupper
handle. Loosen the wing nut which secures the
rope guide. See Figure 5.
Starter _ Upper Handle
Rope jWing Nut
Rope
Guide Lower
Handle
Figure 5
With the spark plugwire disconnected and
grounded, hold the blade controlhandle against the
upper handle, and pull the starter rope out of the
engine. Release the blade control handle. Slip the
starter rope into the rope guide. Tighten the wing
nut.
AssemblingSoft TopGrass Catcher
NOTE: If your mower's grass catcher has been already
assembled before shipping, proceed to the next
section. If ff has been shipped not assembled, follow
the steps below.
Insert frame into grass bag with the black plastic
side on the bottom of bag. See Figure 6.
Grass Catcher
Frame Insert Frame
/Into Bag
/
Grass Bag j
Plastic Channel Grass Catcher
Assembly Complete
Slip the openings in the side of the plastic channel
on bag over the hooks on the grass catcher frame.
Secure bag to the frame by working the six plastic
channels on bag over frame. All the plastic chan-
nels attach from the outside of bag. See Figure 6.
AttachingGrassCatcherTo Mower
Remove the mulching baffle in order to install and
use the grass catcher. Liftthe rear discharge door
and remove the rear mulching baffle from the
mower. See Figure 7.
Rear Mulching
Baffle
Figure 7
Holding open the rear discharge door, place the
grass catcher on the pivot rod. Let go of discharge
door so that it rests on the grass catcher.
See Figure 8.
To remove the grass catcher, lift the rear discharge
door on the mower and lift the grass catcher up.
Reinstall the rear mulching baffle and release the
rear discharge door.
zDischarge
JDoor
F_
Figure 8
Figure 6

SECTION4: KNOWYOURLAWNMOWER
Read this operator's manual and safety rules before
operating your lawn mower. Compare the illustration in
with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the
location of various controls and adjustments. Save this
manual for future reference.
WARNING: The operation of any lawn
mower can result in foreign objects being
thrown into the eyes, which can damage
your eyes severely. Always wear safety
glasses while operating the mower, or
while performing any adjustments or
repairs on it.
RecoilStarter
The recoil starter isattached to the right handle. Stand
behind the unit and pull the recoil starter to start the
unit. See Figure 9.
BladeControlHandle
The blade control handle is located on the upper handle
of the mower. The blade control handle must be
depressed in order to operate the unit. Release blade
control handle to stop engine and blade. See Figure 9.
WARNING: This blade control mechanism
is a safety device. Never attempt to bypass
its operations.
HeightAdjustmentLevers
These levers are located on each wheel and are used
to adjust the cutting height. These levers have to be at
the same relative position to ensure uniform cut.
See Figure 9.
EngineControls
See the separate engine manual for additional
information and functions of the engine controls.
_Blade Control Handle
Recoil Starter_
Height Adjustment Levers
Figure 9
SECTION5: OPERATINGYOURLAWNMOWER
&WARNING: Keep hands and feet away from
chute area on the cutting deck. 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.
GasandOilFill-Up
Service the engine with gasoline and oit as instructed in
the separate engine manual packed with your mower.
Read instructions carefully.
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.

FTowardsBetterMowerPerformance
1. Pour fresh, clean gasoline into the mower's gas
tank until the tank is full. Do not use gasoline
that is more than 30 days old.
2. Make sure to connect the mower's spark plug
wire before trying to start the engine.
3. Add engine oil to the oil fill on the mower engine.
Check the dipstick and add more if necessary.
Remember that the oil level has to touch the fill
line.
4. Locate the primer decal near the primer bulb on
the engine, and read its instruction. Using your
thumb, press the primer bulb slowly as many
times as the decal advises.
5. Hold control handle down and pull rope firmly to
start the engine.
6. Set cutting height adjustment lever to middle
setting and mow a single pass on your lawn;
then adjust to desired height for a closer cut.
7. To mulch insert the mulch plug/cover on the
mower.
8. Before storing the lawn mower for the winter,
use stabilizer-treated fuel and run the tank dry.
9. Thirty days before start of the new season,
check the air filter, spark plug and blade on the
lawn mower, and replace if needed. J
NOTE: For shipping purposes your mower is set with
the wheels in a low cutting height position. For best
results raise the cutting position until it is determine
which height is best for your lawn. See the Adjustment
Section for details.
StoppingEngine
Release blade control handle to stop the engine
and the blade.
Disconnect spark plug wire and ground it to a bolt
on the engine.
StartingEngine
Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. Make certain
the metal cap on the end of the spark plug is
fastened securely over the metal tip on the spark
plug.
Prime engine as instructed in the separate engine
manual packed with your unit.
Your lawn mower may be equipped with a constant
speed throttle, which is set at full throttle for best
performance.
Stand behind the mower and squeeze the blade
control handle against the upper handle.
Grasp recoil 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 return to the starter
slowly.
UsingYourLawnMower
Be sure that the lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or
other objects which could damage the lawn mower or
the engine. Such objects could be accidently thrown by
the mower inany 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, orwet grass
may require a narrower cut.
For ahealthier lawn, never cut off more than one-third
of the total length of the grass. Your lawn should be cut
in the fall as long as there isgrowth. This mower is
designed to be operated at full throttle to give you the
best cut and do the most effective job of mowing or
mulching.
WARNING: If you strike a foreign object,
stop the engine. Remove wire from the
spark plug, thoroughly inspect the mower
for any damage, and repair the damage
before restarting and operating the
mower. Extensive vibration of the mower
during operation is an indication of
damage. The unit should be promptly
inspected and repaired.
Mulching
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 side discharge to reduce the grass height to 3
1/4" maximum before mulching.
10

SECTION6: MAKINGADJUSTMENTS
WARNING: Do not at any time make any
adjustments without first stopping engine
and disconnecting spark plug wire,
CuttingHeightAdjustment
An adjusting plate and spring lever at each wheel
position provides cutting height adjustment. Each
adjusting plate has assorted height positions. When the
spring lever is moved from one location to another the
height of cut will be changed. Simply depress the lever
towards wheel and move lever assembly to desired
position. See Figure 10.
Lever
Figure 10
IMPORTANT: All wheels must be placed in the same
relative position. For rough or uneven lawns, move the
height adjustment lever to a higher position. This wilt
help stop scalping of the grass.
HandleHeightAdjustment
Your mower isshipped with the handle in the higher
height position.To lower the height proceed as follows:
Remove the starter rope from the rope guide,
Remove the upper handle by removing the hand
knobsand carriage bolts. Lay the upper handle out
of the way, being careful not to bend or kink the
cables.
Remove the hairpin clips from the weld pins on the
handle brackets. Press out on the legs of the lower
handle. Remove lower handle from the mower.
Turn lower handle around so the notch on the
bottom of the lower handle isfacing forward.
Reassemble, placing the bottom holes in the
handle over the weld pins in the handle mounting
bracket. See Figure 11.
Lower Hand/ Notch
Figure 11
Reassemble the upper handle to the lower handle.
Place the hairpin clipsin the inner holes in the weld
pins and attach the starter rope as instructed in the
Assembly Section.
SECTION7: MAINTAININGYOURLAWNMOWER
GeneralRecommendations
Always observe safety rules when performing any
maintenance.
The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover
items that have been subjected to operator abuse
or negligence. To receive full value from the
warranty, operator must maintain the lawn mower
as instructed in this manual.
Changing of engine governed speed will void
engine warranty.
Some adjustments will have to be made
periodically to maintain your unit properly. All
adjustments in the Making Adjustments section of
this manual should be checked at least once each
season.
Periodically check all fasteners and make sure
these are tight.
Follow the maintenance schedule under Customer
Responsibilities to get quality performance from
your lawn mower.
11

CustomerResponsibilities
MAINTENANCE _ .V_"_ _ ,.._ roe _'-_ SERVICE
SCHEDULE _ ao_ ao_ o_ # no< DATES
Lubricate Wheels
t-
O Lubricate Blade Control
:::3
_ Clean Deck
rY
n Blade Care
CheckOil
Change Oil
Replace Air Filter
_ Clean Engine
m
Check Spark Plug
Check Spark Arrester (ifany)
Lubrication
Always stop engine and disconnect spark
plug wire before cleaning, lubricating or
doing any kind of service work on the lawn
mower.
Lubricate
Figure 12
Blade Control: Lubricate the pivot points on the blade
control handle at least once a season with light oil. The
blade control must operate freely in both directions.
See Figure 12.
Wheels: Lubricate the wheels at least once a season
with light oil (or motor oil). If the wheels are removed for 12
any reason, lubricate the surface of the axle bolt and
inner surface of the wheel with light oil. See Figure 12.
Chute Deflector: Lubricate the torsion springs and
pivot points on chute deflector using light oil. This will
insure the deflector, which is a safety device, can
always work properly. See Figure 12.
Engine: Follow the separate engine manual packed
with you unit for lubrication instructions.
Maintenance
NOTE: When tipping the unit, empty the fuel tank and
keep the spark plug side of engine up. Never tip the
mower more than 90 degrees and do not leave the
mower tipped for any length of time. Oil can drain into
the upper part of the engine causing a starting problem.
Engine
Refer to the separate engine manual for all engine
maintenance instructions.
Maintain engine oil as instructed in the separate
engine manual packed with your unit.
Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal
conditions. Poor engine performance and flooding
usually indicate that the air cleaner should be
serviced. To service the air cleaner, refer to the
separate engine manual packed with your unit.
The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap
reset once a season. Spark plug replacement is
recommended at the start of each mowing season.
Clean the engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep
the cooling system (blower housing area) clean to
permit proper air circulation which is essential to engine

performanceandlife.Becertaintoremoveallgrass,
dirt,andcombustibledebrisfrommufflerarea.
Deck
The underside of the mower deck should be cleaned
after each use to prevent a buildup of grass clippings,
leaves, dirt, or other matter. If this debris is allowed to
accumulate, it will invite rust and corrosion, and may
prevent proper mulching, discharge, or bagging. The
deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower and scraping
clean with a suitable tool (make certain the spark plug
wire is disconnected).
IMPORTANT: We do not recommend the use of a
pressure washer or garden hose to clean your unit. The
use of water will result in shorten life and reduce
serviceability.
CuttingBladeRemoval,Replacement,andSharpening
When removing the cutting blade for sharpening or
replacement, protect your hands with a pair of
heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the blade.
Remove the bolt and the blade bell support which
hold the blade and the blade adapter to the engine
crankshaft. See Figure 12.
Remove the blade and the adapter from the
crankshaft.
Blade
Blade Bell
Support
JHex Bolt
Figure 13
WARNING: Periodically inspect the blade
adapter for cracks, especially if you strike
a foreign object. Replace when necessary.
When sharpening the blade, follow the original angle of
grind as a guide. It is extremely important that each
cutting edge receives an equal amount of grinding to
prevent an unbalanced blade. An unbalanced blade will
cause excessive vibration when rotating at high
speeds. It 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. Remove metal from the heavy side
until it balances evenly. It is recommended that the
blade always be removed from the adapter when
testing for balance. Before reinstalling the blade and
the blade adapter to the unit, lubricate the engine
crankshaft and the inner surface of the blade adapter
with light oil.
Be sure to install the blade with the side of the
blade marked "Bottom" (or with part number) facing
the ground when the mower is in the operating
position.
Slide the blade adapter onto the engine crankshaft.
Place the blade on the adapter. Be certain the
blade is aligned and seated on the blade adapter
flanges.
Place blade bell support on blade. Make sure the
notches on the blade belt support are aligned with
small holes in the blade.
Replace hex bolt and tighten hex bolt to torque: 450
in. lbs. min., 600 in. lbs. max.
NOTE: To ensure safe operation of your mower, the
blade bolt must be checked periodically for correct
torque.
StoringyourLawnMower
The following steps should be taken to prepare your
lawn mower for storage.
Clean and lubricatemower thoroughly as described
in the lubrication instructions.
IMPORTANT:We do not recommend the use of a
pressure washer or garden hose to clean your unit.
Refer to engine manual for correct 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 a
poorly ventilated 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.
13

SECTION8: TROUBLESHOOTING
Problem Cause
Engine fails to start
Engine runs erratic
1. Blade control handle disengaged.
2. Spark plug wire disconnected.
3. Fuel tank empty or stale fuel.
4. Blocked fuel line.
5. Faulty spark plug.
6. Engine flooded
1. Spark plug wire loose.
2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.
.
4.
5.
6.
Engine overheats 1.
2.
3.
Occasional skip (hesitates 1.
at high speed
Vent in gas plugged.
Water or dirt in fuel system.
Dirty air cleaner.
Carburetor out of adjustment.
Engine oil level tow.
Air flow restricted.
Carburetor not adjusted properly.
Spark plug gap too close.
Remedy
1. Engage blade control handle.
2. Connect wire to spark plug.
3. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.
4. Clean fuel line.
5. Clean, adjust gap, or replace.
6. Wait a few minutes to restart, but do not
prime.
1. Connect and tighten spark plug wire.
2. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh
gasoline
3. Clear vent.
4. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.
5. Clean air cleaner.
6. Adjust carburetor.
1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.
2. Remove blower housing and clean.
3. Adjust carburetor.
1. Adjust gap to .030".
Idles poorly 1. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too 1. Reset gap to .030" or replace spark
wide. plug.
2. Carburetor improperly adjusted. 2. Adjust carburetor.
3. Dirty air cleaner. 3. Clean air cleaner.
Excessive vibration 1. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced. 1. Tighten blade and adapter. Balance
blade.
2. Bent cutting blade. 2. Replace blade.
Mower wilt not mulch gras,_ 1. Wet grass. 1. Do not mow when grass is wet; wait
until later to cut.
2. Excessively high grass. 2. Mow once at a high cutting height, then
mow again at desired height or make a
narrower cutting path.
3. Dull blade. 3. Sharpen or replace blade.
Uneven cut 1. Wheels not positioned correctly. 1. Place all four wheels in same height
position.
2. Dull blade. 2. Sharpen or replace blade.
NOTE: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments listed abe ve, contact your nearest authorized service dealer.
14

Notes
15

ModelSeries580
7_
\\\\
15
41
42
16
2Q
21
9 10
13
6
24
23
26 46
47
p,
38
44 43
4_
4T
56
38 5£/
6O
_57
49
5O
16

ModelSeries580
Ref. Part No.
No.
1. 749-0438D
2. 747-0824
3. 710-1270
4. 746-0883
5. 712-0324
6. 720-0279
7. 710-1205
8. 710-1174
9. 736-0451
10, 720-0284
12, 746-0551
746-0554
13, 749-0907B
14, 664-0084
15, 747-0995A
16, 782-5007A
17. 782-5004
18, 714-0104
19, 782-7599A
20, 732-0700
21, 731-1236
22, 732-0809
23, 747-0996
24, 750-0434
25, 682-3058
682-3059
26, 782-0310A
27, 710-0654A
28, 710-0703
29, 712-3005
30, 736-0356
31, 712-0130
Part Description Ref.
No. Part No.
Upper Handle 32, 682-3056A
Control Handle 682-3057A
C-Sunk Screw 1/4-20 x 1.3" 33, 710-0286
Throttle Housing 34, 710-0896
Hex Lock Nut 1/4-20 35, 710-0514
Handle Knob 36, 720-0312
Rope Guide 37, 17488A
Carriage Bolt 5/16-18 x 2" 17489A
Shoulder Washer ,320 ID x ,930 OD 38, 736-0105
Wing Nut 39, 732-0866
Blade Control Cable 43" 40, 738-0507B
Blade Control Cable 40.5" 41, 734-1864
Lower Handle 42, 736-0456
Grass Bag 43, 736-0182
Grass Catcher Frame 44, 738-0481A
Rear Mulch Plug 45, 14578
Rear Baffle - RH 14579
Hairpin Clip 46, 734-1988
Grass Bag Door 47, 738-0102
Wire Rod 49, 712-0431
Trailshield 50, 782-5002
Door Spring 51, 782-5003
Chute Door Pivot Rod 52, 710-1017
Spacer ,375 O,D. x .50 I.D, x 1,02" 53, 15261A
Handle Bracket Assembly - LH 54, 720-0426
Handle Bracket Assembly - RH 55, 15262B
Deck 21" 56, 732-0404
Hex Washer Screw 3/8-16 x 1,0 57, 748-0376C
Hex Carriage Screw 1/4-20 58, 742-0741
Flange Lock Nut 3/8-16 742-0641
Bell Washer .390 ID x .380 OD 59, 736-0524A
Hex Lock Nut 3/8-16 60, 710-1044
Part Description
Handle Bracket Assembly *RH
Handle Bracket Assembly *LH
Machine Screw 1/4-20 x ,500
Hex Washer Screw 1/4-14 x ,625
Hex Cap Screw 3/8-16 x 1,0
Foam Grip
Pivot Bar - RH
Pivot Bar - LH
Spring Washer .375 ID x ,870 OD
Spring Lever
Shoulder Screw
Rear Wheel Assembly 14 x 1,8
Flat Washer ,510 ID x 1,37 OD
Wave Washer ,500 ID x 1.00D
Shoulder Screw
Front Height Adjuster- RH
Front Height Adjuster- LH
Front Wheel Assembly 7 x 1.8
Shoulder Bolt
Flange Lock Nut 3/8-16
Front Baffle
Rear Baffle *LH
Tap Screw 1/4-14 x .625,
Height Adjustment Plate
Height Adjustment Knob
Pivot Bar
Spring Lever
Blade Adapter
21" Mulching
21" Standard
Blade Bell Support
Hex Cap Screw 3/8-24 x 1,5
17

18

19

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 the date of original purchase
and will, at its option, repair or replace, free of charge, any
part found to be defective in materials or workmanship. This
limited warranty shall only apply if this product has been
operated and maintained in accordance with the Operator's
Manual furnished with the product, and has not been subject
to misuse, abuse, commercial use, neglect, accident,
improper maintenance, alteration, vandalism, theft, fire,
water, or damage because of other peril or natural disaster.
Damage resulting from the installation or use of any acces-
sory or attachment not approved by MTD LLC for use with the
product(s) covered by this manual will void your warranty as
to any resulting damage.
Normal wear parts or components thereof are subject to sep-
arate terms as follows: All normal wear parts or component
failures will be covered on the product for a period of 90 days
regardless of cause. After 90 days, but within the two year
period, normal wear part failures will be covered ONLY IF
caused by defects in materials or workmanship 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 spiral rubber, tires.
d. MTD LLC does not extend any warranty for products
sold or exported outside of the United States, its posses-
sions 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 than an 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, includ-
ing 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 ser-
vices or for rental expenses to temporarily replace a war-
ranted product.
HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available,
WITH PROOF OF PURCHASE, through your local autho-
rized service dealer. To locate the dealer in your area, check
your Yellow Pages, or contact MTD LLC at P.O. Box 361131.
Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019, 1-800-800-7310, 1-330-220-
4683 or log on to our Web site at www.mtdproducts.com.
This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the follow-
ing cases:
a. The engine or component parts thereof. These items
carry a separate manufacturer's warranty. Refer to the
applicable manufacturer's warranty for terms and condi-
tions.
b. Log splitter pumps, valves, and cylinders have a sepa-
rate one year warranty.
c. Routine maintenance items such as lubricants, filters,
blade sharpening, tune-ups, brake adjustments, clutch
adjustments, deck adjustments, and normal deterioration
of the exterior finish due to use or exposure.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of inci-
dental or consequential damages, or limitations on how long
an implied warranty lasts, so the above exclusions or limita-
tions may not apply to you.
In no event shall recovery of any kind be greater than the
amount of the purchase price of the product sold. Alteration
of 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
arising out of the misuse or inability to use the product.
This limited warranty shall not extend to anyone other than
the original purchaser or to the person for whom it was pur-
chased as a gift.
HOW STATE LAW RELATES TO THIS WARRANTY: This
limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you
may also have other rights which vary from state to
state.
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019 1-800-800-7310