MTD White Outdoor 465 Series User manual

21” Self Propelled
Mulching Mower
Model Series 465
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
Operator’s Manual
FORM NO. 769-01450.fm
(11/2004)
IMPORTANT: Read safety rules and instructions carefully before operating equipment.
Warning: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-cov-
ered, 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

2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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. A sample model plate is
also given below. You can locate the model plate by standing at the operating position and
looking down at the rear of the deck. This information will be necessary to use the
manufacturer’s web site and/or help from the Customer Support Department or an authorized
service dealer.
CUSTOMER SUPPORT
Please do NOT return the unit to the retailer from where it was purchased, without first contacting Customer Support.
If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation or
maintenance of this unit, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:
Visit www.whiteoutdoor.com for many useful suggestions. Click on Customer Support
button and you will get the four options reproduced here. Click on the appropriate button and
help is immediately available.
If you prefer to reach a Customer Support Representative, please call 1-800-949-4483.
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.
Content Page
Important Safe Operation Practices 3
Slope Gauge 6
Assembling Your Lawn Mower 7
Know Your Lawn Mower 9
Operating Your Lawn Mower 10
Maintaining Your Lawn Mower 11
Servicing And Adjustments 13
Off Season Storage 14
Trouble Shooting 15
Illustrated Parts List 16
Warranty 20
Content Page
Copy the model number here:
Copy the serial number here:
DEALER LOCATOR PHONE NUMBER: 800-949-4483
MTD LLC
P. O. BOX 361131
CLEVELAND,OH 44136
www.whiteoutdoor.com
The answer you are
looking for could be just
a mouse click away!
The answer you are
looking for could be just
a mouse click away!
Engine
Manual

3
SECTION 1: IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES
General Operation
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
safe operation rules should use this machine.
4. Thoroughly inspect the area where 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 bystanders, helpers, children and pets at
least 75 feet from the machine while it is in
operation. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
6. Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes
during equipment operation and while performing
an adjustment or repair. 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.
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. If you 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.
5. Do not operate the mower while under the influence
of alcohol or drugs.
6. Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on
units so equipped while starting engine.
7. The blade control handle is a safety device. 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.
8. 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
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.
WARNING: 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.

4
your footing, release the blade control handle
immediately and the blade will stop rotating within
three seconds.
9. Mow in daylight or good artificial light; walk, not run.
10. Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives,
walkways or roads.
11. If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally,
stop the engine and check immediately for the
cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
12. Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes
to a complete stop before removing the grass
catcher or unclogging the chute. The cutting blade
continues to rotate for a few seconds after the
engine is shut off. Never place any part of the body
in the blade area until you are sure the blade has
stopped rotating.
13. Never operate mower without proper trail shield,
discharge cover, grass catcher, blade control
handle or other safety protective devices in place
and working. Never operate mower with damaged
safety devices. Failure to do so can result in
personal injury.
14. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a
burn. Do not touch.
15. Only use parts and accessories made by the
original equipment manufacturer (O.E.M). Failure
to do so can result in personal injury.
16. If situations occur which are not covered in this
manual, use care and good judgment. Contact your
dealer for assistance. Call1-800-949-4483 for the
name of your nearest dealer.
Slope Operation
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. Before operating this unit on a
slope or hilly area, use the slope gauge on page 6 to
measure slopes. 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 caution when changing direction.
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.
Do Not:
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.
5. Keep children away from hot or running engines.
They can suffer burns from a hot muffler.
6. 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.
Service
Safe Handling of Gasoline:
1. To avoid personal injury or 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 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
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.

5
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. 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 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 free of 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 intervals for proper tightness. Also,
visually inspect blade for damage (e.g., bent,
cracked, worn) Replace blade with the original
equipment manufacture’s (O.E.M.) blade only,
listed in this manual. “Use of parts which do not
meet the original equipment specifications may
lead to improper performance and compromise
safety!”
4. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the
blade or wear gloves, and use extra caution when
servicing them.
5. Keep all nuts, 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. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine,
disconnect the spark plug wire and ground against
the engine. Thoroughly inspect the mower for any
damage. Repair the damage before starting and
operating the mower.
8. Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height
adjustment while the engine is running.
9. Grass catcher components, discharge cover, and
trail shield are subject to wear and 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 specifications may
lead to improper performance and compromise
safety!”
10. Do not change the engine governor setting or
overspeed the engine. The governor controls the
maximum 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 materials can harm
the environment.
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.
1299 AC

6
SECTION 2: SLOPE GAUGE
Use this page as a guide to determine slopes where you may not operate safely.
15o
SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE
A POWER POLE
A CORNER OF A BUILDING
OR A FENCE POST
FOLDON DOTTEDLINE, REPRESENTINGA15
o
SLOPE
WARNING
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.

7
SECTION 3: ASSEMBLING YOUR LAWN MOWER
Removing Unit From Carton
• Remove staples, break glue on top flaps, or cut
tape at carton end and peel along top flap to open.
• Remove loose parts included with unit (i.e.,
operator’s manual, oil, etc.).
• Cut corners and lay carton down flat. Remove
packing material.
• Roll or slide unit out of carton. Check carton
thoroughly for loose parts.
NOTE: Make sure not to crimp cables while removing
loose parts or the entire unit from the carton.
Tools Required
• Pair of Pliers
• Funnel
NOTE: Reference to right or left hand side of the mower
and/or front or behind the mower is observed from the
operating position.
Hardware Pack
Please identify each piece of the
hardware pack as shown in
figure here.
Disconnecting Spark Plug
• Before setting up your lawn mower, disconnect the
spark plug wire from the spark plug, and ground it
against the engine.
Assembling Handle
• Remove grass bag from the unit and set it out of the
way.
• Remove any packing material which may be
between the upper and lower handles for shipping
purposes.
Figure 1
• Raise the lower handle, as shown in Figure 1 , until
it snaps into place.
• Raise the upper handle as shown in Figure 1 .
Tighten the wing nuts which are already on the
handle. See Figure 2 .
Figure 2
NOTE: Make sure to route the cables inside the lower
handle. Also do not crimp the cables while lifting the
handle up.
• For shipping purposes, the hairpin clip is placed in
the outer hole of the weld pin on the lower handle.
Remove the hairpin clip from the outer hole of the
weld pin. See Figure 3.
• Using a pair of pliers, insert the hairpin clip into the
inner hole on the weld pin. Repeat on other side.
See Figure 3 .
Figure 3
• Insert the carriage bolt, included in the hardware
pack, in the upper hole on the handle mounting
bracket (carriage bolt must go to the inside of
handle). Secure with one plastic wing nut, also
included in the hardware pack. Repeat on the other
side with remaining items from the hardware pack.
• Attach cables to the lower handle with the cable ties
already on the lower handle. Insert pegs on cable
ties into the holes on the lower handle. Pull cable
ties tight and cut off the extra.
Wing Carriage
Bolt (2)
Nut (2)
Tighten these
wing nuts
Lower
Handle
Upper
Handle
Carriage Bolt
Wing Nut
Upper
Move Hairpin Clip
Handle
Mounting
Brkt.
Hole

8
Attaching Starter Rope
The rope guide is already attached to the right side of
the lower handle of your mower. See Figure 4 .
• 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.
• Slip the rope through the rope guide as shown
below. Tighten the wing nut holding the rope guide
to the lower handle.
Figure 4
Assembling Grass Catcher
NOTE: If the grass catcher came pre-assembled,
proceed to the next section. If not, follow the steps
below to assemble it before attaching to the mower.
• Insert frame into grass bag with the black plastic
side on the bottom of bag. See Figure 5.
Figure 5
• 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 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. See Figure 5.
Attaching Grasscatcher
• Lift the rear discharge door and place the grass
catcher on the pivot rod. Let go of discharge door
so that it rests on the grass catcher. See Figure 6.
Figure 6
Converting To Mulcher
• Lift the rear discharge door on the mower and lift
the grass catcher up. Release the discharge door
to allow it to close the rear opening of the mower.
Converting To Side Discharge
• Make sure the grass catcher is off the unit and the
rear discharge door is closed.
• On the side of the mower, lift the mulching plug.
See Figure 7.
• Slide the two hooks of the side-discharge chute
under the hinge pin on the mulching plug assembly.
Lower the side mulching plug.
• Do not remove the side mulching plug at any time,
even when you are not mulching.
Figure 7
Lower Handle
Starter
Rope
Rope Guide
Wing Nut
Grass Catcher
Frame
Insert frame
into bag
Grass
Plastic
Channel
Grass Catcher
Assembly
Complete
Bag
WARNING: When using the mower to bag
grass clippings, make sure 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.
Rear Discharge
Door
Grass
Catcher
Hinge Pin
Mulching Plug
Hooks
Deflector
(Slide hooks under the two
sides of hinge pin)

9
SECTION 4: KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
Read this owner’s manual and safety rules before
operating your lawn mower. Compare the illustrations
in Figure 8 with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself
with the location of various controls and adjustments.
Save this manual for future reference.
Figure 8
Starter Rope
The starter rope is attached to the handle. Stand behind
the unit and pull the starter rope to start the unit.
Blade Control Handle
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 the
blade control handle to stop the engine and the blade.
Lower Bail Handle
The lower bail handle is located on the upper handle
and is used to engage the drive. Squeeze the lower bail
handle against the upper handle to engage the drive;
release it to slow down or stop the mower from
propelling.
Grasscatcher Bag
The grass bag is used for collecting grass clippings.
Attach it to the mower for this purpose, but remove it
when the intention is to mulch the grass.
Mulching Plug
The mulching plug is 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. Make sure that the rear
discharge door is closed and the grass catcher is
removed from the unit while mulching.
Cutting Height Adjustment Lever
These levers are located on each wheel and they are
used to adjust the cutting height. All four levers have to
be at the same relative position to ensure uniform cut.
WARNING: The operation of any lawn
mower can result in foreign objects being
thrown into the operator’s eyes thus causing
severe eye damage. Always wear safety
glasses while operating the mower, or while
performing any adjustments or repairs on it.
Cutting Height
Adjustment Levers
Mulching
Plug
Side-Discharge
Chute
Starter
Rope
Blade Control Handle
Grasscatcher
Lower Bail Handle
NOTE:
For engine controls, please refer to
the engine manual.
WARNING: The blade control handle is a
safety device. Never attempt to bypass its
operations or alter it in any way.

10
SECTION 5: OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER
Gas & Oil Fill-Up
• Check oil level and add oil if necessary. Follow
relevant instructions in the engine manual for this.
• Service the engine with gasoline as instructed in
the engine manual.
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.
Throttle Speed
Your lawn mower engine is equipped with a constant
speed throttle, which is set at full throttle for best
performance.
Starting Engine
• Push primer three times. Wait about two seconds
between each push. In cold weather around 55
o
F
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). Keeping
a firm grip on the starter handle, let the rope rewind
slowly.
NOTE: See your engine manual packed with your unit
for more detailed instructions.
To Stop Engine
• Release the blade control handle to stop the engine
and blade.
• Disconnect spark plug wire and ground it against
the engine to prevent accidental starting while
equipment is unattended.
Using Your Lawn Mower
• You can use your mower as a mulcher or a rear
bagger or for side discharge of grass.
• Be sure that the lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire,
or other objects which could damage lawn mower
or engine. Such objects could be accidently 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.
•Forahealthy lawn, always cut off one-third or less
of the total length of the grass. Lawn should be
trimmed in fall as long as there is growth.
Adjusting Cutting Height
Refer to height adjustments section of this manual on
page 13 for instruction on how to adjust the cutting
height and the handle height.
For best results in mowing, keep the cutting height
position high until you can determine a suitable height.
Bagging Grass Clippings
You can use the grass catcher bag to collect clippings
while you are operating the mower.
• Attach grass catcher following instructions on page
8. Grass clippings will automatically collect in the
bag as you run the mower. Operate the mower till
the grass bag is full.
• Once the bag is full, stop the engine and the mower
completely. Lift discharge door and pull grass bag
up and away from the mower to dispose of the
grass clippings.
WARNING: Read and understand all
instructions and warnings on the machine and
in this manual before operating.
WARNING: Use extreme care when
handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely
flammable and the vapors are explosive. Never
fuel the machine indoors or while the engine is
hot or running. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars,
pipes and other sources of ignition.
WARNING: Be sure no one other than the
operator is standing near the lawn mower while
starting engine or operating mower.
WARNING: Never run engine indoors or in
enclosed, poorly ventilated areas. Engine
exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an
odorless and deadly gas.
WARNING: Keep hands, feet, hair and
loose clothing away from any moving parts on
engine and lawn mower.
WARNING: If the mower strikes a foreign
object, stop the engine. Remove spark plug
wire from the spark plug and thoroughly inspect
for any damage. Repair the damage promptly
before restarting and operating the mower.

11
SECTION 6: MAINTAINING YOUR LAWN MOWER
Cleaning Mower
The underside of the mower deck should be cleaned
after each use to prevent any build-up of grass
clippings, leaves, dirt, or other debris. If this debris is
allowed to accumulate, it will result in rust and
corrosion.
NOTE: We do not recommend the use of pressure
washers or garden hose to clean your unit. These may
cause damage to pulleys, bearings, or the engine. The
use of water will result in shortened life and reduce
serviceability.
• Disconnect spark plug wire.
• Drain the gasoline from the lawn mower, or place a
piece of plastic under the gas cap.
• Tip the mower so that it rests on the housing. Keep
the side with the air cleaner facing up. Hold the
mower firmly.
• Scrape and clean the underside of the deck with a
suitable tool. Do not spray with water.
• Put the mower back on its wheels on the ground. If
you had put plastic under the gas cap, make sure to
remove it now.
Engine Care
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 regularly, as instructed in the
engine manual. Check oil level before starting
engine every time.
• Service air cleaner regularly. You may have to
service this more frequently if you are operating the
mower under extremely dusty conditions.
• Clean the engine periodically. Remove dirt and
debris with a cloth or brush.
• Clean the spark plug and reset the gap to.030” at
least once a 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.
Lubrication
Figure 9: Lubrication Chart
Wheels
• Lubricate the wheels and bearings, if so equipped,
at least once a season with light oil or engine oil.
Also, if the wheels are removed for any reason,
lubricate the surface of the pivot arm axle and the
inner surface of the wheel with light oil.
Mulch Plug & Rear Discharge Door
• Lubricate the torsion spring and the pivot point on
each end of the rear discharge door using a light oil.
Transmission
• The transmission is pre-lubricated and sealed at
the factory and does not require lubrication on a
regular basis as part of maintenance.
Blade Control
• Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control
handle and the brake cable at least once a season
with a light oil. It needs to move in both directions.
WARNING: Always stop the engine and
disconnect the spark plug wire before
performing any maintenance work or
adjustments on your lawn mower.
WARNING: Never tip the mower more than
90 degrees in any directions 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.
WARNING: Avoid muffler and surrounding
areas while the mower engine is hot because
temperature of these areas of the engine may
exceed 150
o
F.
Lube
Lube
Lube
Lube

12
Engine
• Follow the engine manual instructions and
recommended schedule for lubricating engine
components.
Blade Care
• Periodically inspect the blade adapter and pulley
for cracks, especially if you strike a foreign object.
Replace when necessary.
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug.
• Turn mower on its side making sure that the air filter
and the carburetor are up.
To Remove Blade:
• Remove the hex bolt which holds the blade
adapter-pulley assembly to the engine crankshaft.
See Figure 10 . Remove the pulley assembly and
the bell support from the crankshaft.
• Remove blade from the blade adapter and pulley.
Figure 10
To Replace Blade:
• Before reinstalling the blade-pulley assembly to the
unit, lubricate the engine crankshaft and the inner
surface of the blade adapter with light oil.
• Also lubricate the bolt hole and the hex bolt.
• Insert the hex bolt, earlier removed, through the
center holes on the blade bell support and the
blade adapter-pulley assembly respectively.
• Install the blade assembly on the crankshaft.
Tighten the hex bolt to the recommended torque.
Blade Mounting Torque:
Center bolt: 450 in.lbs. minimum, 600
in.lbs. maximum.
IMPORTANT: The bolt used to secure the blade to the
engine is specially heat-treated. Do not substitute. To
order replacement bolt, refer to the parts list in the back
of this manual.
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. Test the blade by balancing it on a
round shaft screwdriver or a blade balancer.
• If the blade is not balanced, remove metal from the
heavy side until it balances evenly.
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.
Adapter-Pulley
Assembly
Blade
Hex Bolt
Blade Bell
Support
WARNING: To ensure safe operation of
your unit, all nuts and bolts must be checked
periodically for correct tightness.

13
SECTION 7: SERVICE & ADJUSTMENTS
Replacing Drive Belt
• Remove two shoulder screws securing the front
drive cover to the mower deck. See Figure 11.
Figure 11
• Press inward on the sides of the 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
11. Do not remove the screw completely. As you
loosen the screw, tension on the belt will release.
• Push the transmission up a little and slide the belt
off the transmission pulley.
• Lift the mower to access the belt from the underside
of the mower.
• Slide the belt off the engine pulley and around the
blade. See Figure 12 .
• 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.
Figure 12
Replacing Rear Flap
• To remove rear flap, cut off the flat end of the wire
rod which secures it to the deck. See Figure 13 .
• Attach the new flap and new rod to deck, bending
the ends of the new rod over to secure to deck.
Figure 13
Adjusting Cutting Height
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 will
help stop scalping of the grass.
An adjusting plate and thumb lever at each wheel
provides cutting height adjustment. Each adjusting
plate has nine height positions. Height of cut will be
changed when you move the thumb lever from one
position to another.
• Simply depress the lever towards the wheel and
move the lever assembly to desired position. See
Figure 14 .
WARNING: Use a thick piece of rag to
handle the blade while sliding the belt in the
next step. Make sure the engine does not start
at all while doing this job.
Loosen this screw
Shoulder
Shoulder
Screw
Screw Front Drive
Cover
Belt
Transmission
Engine Pulley
Left Front
Wheel
Right Front
Wheel
Handle
Bracket
Handle
Bracket
Rear Discharge
Door
Rear
WireRod
Flap

14
• For rough or uneven lawns, move the height
adjustment handles to higher cutting height
position.
Figure 14
Adjusting Carburetor
If the engine is running rough, minor adjustments to the
carburetor may be required to compensate for
differences in fuel, temperature, altitude and load.
NOTE: Dirty air cleaner may cause an engine to run
rough.Before adjusting carburetor, check air cleaner.
To adjust the carburetor, please follow the
recommendations and instructions on carburetor
adjustment in the engine manual.
SECTION 8: OFF-SEASON STORAGE
Prepare your lawn mower for storage at the end of the
season or if the unit will not be used for 30 days or
more. Store the mower in a clean, dry area.
Mower
• Clean underside of the mower following
instructions in the Maintain Your Lawn Mower
section of this manual.
• Lubricate mower as instructed on page 11.
• You can fold your mower’s handle for convenient
storage: Remove the starter rope from the rope
guide; loosen the two hand knobs on the sides of
the handle, and let the upper handle fold down to
the rear. Move the hairpin clips to the outer hole in
the weld pins on the handle mounting brackets.
Spread the sides of the lower handle, and push it
forward and down.
• Inspect and replace/sharpen blade, if required.
Engine
• Follow recommendations in the engine manual for
off-season storage of the engine.
• Change oil if it has not been changed in the last
three months. For instructions on how to change oil,
refer to the engine manual.
• Clean engine and remove any grass clippings.
Other
• Do not store gasoline from one season to another.
• Replace your gasoline can if it starts to rust. Rust
and/or dirt in the gasoline will cause problems.
Store unit in a clean, dry area. Do not store next to
corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.
NOTE: If storing in an unventilated or metal storage
shed, be certain to rustproof the equipment by coating
with a light oil or silicone.
Height Adjustment
Lever
WARNING: If any adjustments are made to
the engine (e.g. carburetor) while the engine is
running, keep clear of all moving parts. Be
careful of heated surfaces like the muffler.

15
SECTION 9: TROUBLE-SHOOTING
NOTE: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments listed above, contact your local authorized service dealer.
Problem Possible Cause Corrective Action
Engine fails to start 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. Engage blade control handle.
2. Connect wire to spark plug.
3. Fill up tank with fresh gasoline.
4. Clean fuel line.
5. Clean, adjust gap, or replace.
6. Wait a few minutes to restart. Do not prime.
Engine runs erratic 1. Spark plug wire loose
2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel
3. Vent in gas cap plugged
4. Water or dirt in fuel system
5. Dirty air cleaner
1. Connect and tighten spark plug wire.
2. Clean fuel line, fill tank with fresh gasoline.
3. Clear vent.
4. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.
5. Clean air cleaner. Refer to engine manual.
Engine overheats 1. Engine oil level low
2. Air flow restricted
1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.
2. Clean lawn mower engine.
Occasional skip
(hesitates) at high
speed
1. Spark plug gap too close 1. Adjust gap to.030 inches.
Idles poorly 1. Spark plug faulty, or gap too wide
2. Dirty air cleaner
1. Reset gap to.030 inches or replace spark plug.
2. Clean air cleaner.
Excessive vibration 1. Blade loose or unbalanced
2. Bent cutting blade
3. Bent engine crankshaft
1. Tighten blade and adapter, balance blade.
2. Replace blade.
3. Contact the nearest service center
Mower will not
mulch grass
1. Wet grass
2. Excessively high grass
3. Dull blade
1. Wait until grass is dry to cut.
2. Mow once at a high cutting height, then mow
again at desired height.
3. Sharpen or replace blade.
Uneven cut 1. Wheels not at same height
2. Dull blade
1. Reposition all wheels at same height.
2. Sharpen or replace blade.

16
51
20
78
31
58
56
55
59
57
18
72
52
6
49
47
21
25
26
3
11
4
5
224
37
34
76
38
32
33
40
60
73
43
12
61
54
65
47
46
77
45
67
39
41
31
29
28
35
30
69
42
23
48
8
22
16
7
53
31
27
74
15
17
71
49 14 19
13
1
66
64
63
62
9
10
36
44
75
70
SECTION 10: PARTS LIST FOR MODEL SERIES 465
IMPORTANT: For a proper working machine, use
Factory Approved Parts. V-BELTS are specially
designed to engage and disengage safely. A
substitute (non OEM) V-Belt can be dangerous by
not disengaging completely.

17
Model Series 465
Ref. No Part No. Description
1. 747-1214 Lower Bail Handle
2. 710-0599 TT Screw 1/4-20 x 0.5
3. 736-0270 Bell Washer.265 x 0.75
4. 17032A Deflector Chute Adapter
5. 732-1014 Torsion Spring
6. 731-04859 Snap-On Bail Cover
7. 747-1161A Blade Control Handle
8. 749-1092A Upper Handle
9. 731-04177 Chute Deflector
10. 687-02055 Mulch Plug Complete
11. 747-0710 Hinge Pin
12. 682-0015 Bearing Assembly
13. 720-0279 Handle Knob
14. 720-0284 Handle Knob
15. 710-1205 Eye Bolt
16. 746-1114 Control Cable - 50.56”
17. 710-1174 Carriage Bolt 5/16-18 x 2.0
18. 787-01144A RH Handle Bracket
787-01143A LH Handle Bracket*
19. 726-0240 Cable Tie
20. 714-0104 Cotter Pin
21. 710-0654A Self-Tapping Sems Screw
22. 746-04112A Drive Cable
23. 664-04034 Grassbag Assembly
24. 710-1650 Shoulder Screw # 12 -24
25. 710-0286 Machnined Screw 1/4-20
26. 710-04371 Hex Lock Screw 1/4-15
27. 787-01222 21” Deck
28. 731-04150 Rear Baffle 21” Rd.
29. 710-0216 Hex Screw 3/8-16 x.75
30. 732-04090A Torsion Spring RH
31. 712-0431 Flange Lock Nut 3/8-16
32. 731-05065 Transmission Cover (Gray)
33. 782-5002B Front Baffle
34. 754-0637A V-Belt
35. 736-0447 Wave Washer
36. 750-04178 Sleeve Spacer 9.04” Lg.
37. 748-04015A Blade Adapter w/ Pulley
38. 742-0741 21” Mulching Blade
39. 736-0524B Blade Bell Support
40. 687-02044 Pivot Plate Assembly
41. 710-1257 Hex Screw 3/8-24 x 2.50
42. 749-0928A Lower Handle
43. 750-1166 Slev. Spacer 2.1” Lg.
44. 732-04089A Torsion Spring LH
45. 734-2042 Front Wheel 8x2.125 Gear Gray
46. 716-0865 Snap Ring
47. 717-1762 Gear 14T RH FWD
717-1761 Gear 14T LH FWD *
48. 747-04080 Grass Bag Frame
49. 736-0451 Saddle Washer
50. 710-0606 Hex Screw 1/4-20 x 1.50
51. 710-1652 TT Scr. w/Washer 1/4-20 x.625
52. 687-02068 RH Handle Bracket Assembly
687-02069 LH Handle Bracket Assembly
53. 715-0221 Dowel Pin
54. 736-0474 Washer
55. 687-02071 Pivot Arm Assembly - RH
687-02070 Pivot Arm Assembly - LH*
56. 732-04175 Rear Spring Lever
57. 720-0426 Spring Lever Knob
58. 738-0507B Shoulder Scr.500 Dia. x.434
59. 734-2004A Rear Wheel 8x2.125 Gray
60. 782-0512B Height Adjuster Plate - RH
782-0511A Height Adjuster Plate - LH*
61. 732-0706 Front Lever - RH
732-0707 Front Lever - LH*
62. 732-0700 Wire
63. 731-04998 Trail Shield
64. 747-04035 Pivot Rod
65. 716-0102 Snap Ring
66. 731-04134A Rear Discharge Door
67. 782-7551A Wheel Dust Cap
68. 712-04064 Flange Lock Nut 1/4-20
69. 750-04162 Spacer.375 x.50 x 1.02” Lg.
70. 715-04011 Roll Pin
71. 710-0703 Carriage Bolt 1/4-20
72. 712-0397 Wing Nut
73. 618-0657 Transmission Assembly
74. 732-1043 Belt Tension Spring
75. 756-04017 Input Pulley
76. 682-0512A Height Adjustment Assembly RH
682-0511A Height Adjustment Assembly LH
77. 731-0981A Hub Cap - Radial Spoke Gray
78. 736-0504 Wave Washer .510 x .750 x .017
Ref. No Part No. Description

18
NOTES:

19
Conditions and Products Covered
under The Tecumseh Two-Pull Promise
In addition to all other terms and conditions of the
Limited Warranty applicable to the engine on your new
mower, Tecumseh Power Company (“Tecumseh”), the
manufacturer of your White Outdoor brand engine
hereby warrants that your mower’s engine will start on
the first or second pull by an able-bodied adult (subject
to the conditions and limitations described below) for a
period of two years from the date of its purchase. If the
engine on your mower fails to conform to this limited
warranty, Tecumseh will cover the cost of parts and
labor associated with any adjustments and/or repairs
necessary to return your mower to its warranted
condition. In order to make a claim under the Two-Pull
Promise, the owner must bring the product and proof of
purchase (sales receipt) to an authorized Tecumseh
service provider.
Items and Conditions NOT Covered
under The Tecumseh Two-Pull Promise
• Cost of regular maintenance, service or parts,
which shall include, but are not limited to: filters,
spark plugs, fuel, lubricants, oil changes, blade
sharpening, cable/linkage adjustments and brake
and/or clutch adjustments
• Transportation costs to or from an authorized
Tecumseh service provider, including any pickup
and delivery charges
• Repair on any engine used for commercial,
rental, institutional, governmental or non-
residential applications
• Repair on any engine (or mower) component
which has been altered or misused, or has
required replacement or repair resulting from
misuse, accidents or lack of proper maintenance
• Repairs necessary due to improper battery care,
electrical supply irregularities, or failure to
properly prepare the mower prior to any period of
non-use over three months
• Costs resulting from operational misuse, neglect,
accidents, unauthorized repairs or attempted
repairs of the engine or its components by
anyone other than an authorized Tecumseh
service provider.
• Repairs or adjustments to correct starting
difficulties resulting from the following:
a. Failure to follow proper maintenance
procedures
b. Rotary mower blade striking an object
c. Contaminants in the fuel system
d. Improper fuel or fuel/oil mixture (reference
your Operator's Manual)
e. Failure to drain the fuel system prior to any
period of non-use over three months
f. Damage resulting from operational
conditions where starting may require more
than two pulls. Such conditions include, but
are not limited to:
1. First-time starts after initial purchase
2. First-time starts following an extended
period of non-use (over three months or
after seasonal storage)
3. Cool-temperature starts such as those
common in early spring and late autumn
4. Improper starting procedures
If you are having difficulty starting your unit, please
check the Operator's Manual to ensure that you are
using the correct starting procedure.
Owner Responsibilities
Your White Outdoor engine must be maintained
according to the maintenance procedures outlined in
the Operator's Manual. All costs associated with any
maintenance procedures are at the owner’s expense,
whether performed by an authorized Tecumseh service
provider or the owner. In addition, it is the owner’s
responsibility to retain a proof of purchase and all
service receipts to make a valid claim under The Two-
Pull Promise.
General Conditions
An authorized Tecumseh service provider, using
approved replacement parts, must perform all repairs
covered by the Two-Pull Promise. Repair by an
authorized Tecumseh service provider is your sole
option under this warranty. To find an authorized
Tecumseh service provider, call 1-800-558-5402 or visit
www.tecumsehpower.com.
Tecumseh is not liable for indirect, incidental, or
consequential damages in connection with the use of
the products covered by these warranties, including any
cost or expense of providing substitute equipment or
service during reasonable periods of malfunction or
non-use pending completion of repairs under this
warranty.
Some states do not allow exclusions of incidental or
consequential damages, or limitations on how long an
implied warranty lasts, so the above exclusions and
limitations may not apply to you.

20
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” warrants this product against defects in material and
workmanship for a period of two (2) years commencing on the
date of original purchase and will, at its option, repair or
replace, free of charge, any part found to be defective in materi-
als 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, acci-
dent, 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 part,
accessory or attachment not approved by MTD for use with the
product(s) covered by this manual will void your warranty as to
any resulting damage.
Normal wear parts are warranted to be free from defects in
material and workmanship for a period of thirty (30) days from
the date of purchase. Normal wear parts include, but are not
limited to items such as: batteries, belts, blades, blade adapt-
ers, grass bags, rider deck wheels, seats, snow thrower skid
shoes, shave plates, auger spiral rubber and tires.
HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available,
WITH PROOF OF PURCHASE, through your local authorized
service dealer. To locate the dealer in your area, check your
Yellow Pages, or contact MTD LLC at P.O. Box 361131, Cleve-
land, Ohio 44136-0019, or call 1-800-949-4483 or log on to our
Web site at www.whiteoutdoor.com.
This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the following
cases:
a. The engine or component parts thereof. These items
may carry a separate manufacturer’s warranty. Refer
to applicable manufacturer’s warranty for terms and
conditions.
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 deteriora-
tion of the exterior finish due to use or exposure.
d. Service completed by someone other than an autho-
rized service dealer.
e. MTD 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’s
authorized channels of export distribution.
f. Replacement parts that are not genuine MTD parts.
g. Transportation charges and service calls.
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 war-
ranty, whether written or oral, except as mentioned above,
given by any person or entity, including a dealer or retailer,
with respect to any product, shall bind MTD. During the
period of the 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 shall
not be liable for incidental or consequential loss or dam-
age 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 the exclusion or limitation of inciden-
tal or consequential damages, or limitations on how long an
implied warranty lasts, so the above exclusions or limitations
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. Yo u
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 purchased
as a gift.
HOW STATE LAW RELATES TO THIS WARRANTY: This lim-
ited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also
have other rights which vary from state to state.
IMPORTANT: Owner must present Original Proof of Purchase
to obtain warranty coverage.
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019; Phone:
1-800-949-4483