MTD YARD MACHINES 500 Thru 519 User manual

22” Rotary Mowers
Model Series
500 Thru 519
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
FORM NO.
770-10334A.fm
(10/00)
IMPORTANT: READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY
MTD PRODUCTS INC. P.O. BOX 368022 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-9722
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 theabove 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 368022 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-9722.
OPERATOR’S MANUAL

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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
Making Adjustments ..........................................................................................10
Maintaining Your Lawn Mower...........................................................................11
Troubleshooting.................................................................................................13
Parts List............................................................................................................14
FINDING MODEL NUMBER
This Operator’s Manual is an important part of your new lawn mower. It will help you assemble, prepare and
maintain the unit for best performance. Please read and understand what it says.
Before you start assembling your new equipment, please locate the model plate on the
equipment and copy the information from it in the space provided below. The information on
the model plate is very important if you need help from our Customer Support Department or
an authorized 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.
CALLING CUSTOMER SUPPORT
If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation or
maintenance of this unit, please call the Customer Support Department.
Call 1- (330) 220-4MTD (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.
Copy the model number here:
Copy the serial number here:
(Model Number) (Serial Number)
MTD PRODUCTS INC
CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136
For more details about your unit, visit our website at www.mtdproducts.com

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SECTION 1: IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES
WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could
endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in
this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may
result in personal injury. When you see this symbol - heed its warning.
WARNING: Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle
components contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer
and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
DANGER:This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this
manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can
result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects.
Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
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,
notaplaything.Therefore,exercise extremecautionat 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 andover shouldread 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 towardthe operator.
5. To helpavoidblade contact or a thrown object injury, stay
in the operator zone behind the handles and keep
children, bystanders, helpers and petsat 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
slacksandshirts. 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 missingordamaged 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. Neverpull the mower backtoward you while youare
walking.If you must backthe 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 surefooting.
c. Pullthe mowerbackslowly,nomorethanhalf way
toward you.
d. Repeat these stepsas 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 isa 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.
15. Never operate the mower in wetgrass. Alwaysbesure of
your footing. A slip and fall can causeserious 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 ingood artificial light. Walk, never
run.
17. Stop the blade whencrossing 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 a warning of trouble.
19. Shut the engine offand wait until the blade comes to a

4
complete stop before removing the grasscatcher or
unclogging the chute. The cutting blade continues to
rotate for a few seconds after the engineis shut off. Never
place any part of the body inthe blade areauntilyou are
sure the blade has stopped rotating.
20. 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.
21. Muffler and engine become hotand can cause a burn. Do
not touch.
22. Only use parts and accessories made for thismachineby
the manufacturer. Failure to do so, can result in personal
injury.
23. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual,
use care and good judgment. Contact your dealer for
assistance. Telephone [phone] for the name of
your nearest dealer.
Slope Operation
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 gaugeincluded 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
whichcan cause you to slip or trip. Tallgrass canhide
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 alertto the
presence of children. Children are often attracted to the
mowerand the mowing activity. They donot 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
obscureyour vision of achild 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 gasolinecontainer.
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. 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 atall timesuntil fueling iscomplete.Do
not use a nozzle lock-open device.
7. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources
of ignition.
8. Neverfuel 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
belowbottomof filler neck toprovide space for fuel
expansion.
11. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.
12. If gasoline 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 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.

5
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 originalequipmentmanufacture’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 bladesare 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. Afterstrikinga foreign object,stoptheengine, 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 maylead to improper performance and
compromise safety!”
10. Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed
the engine. The governor controlsthe maximum safe
operatingspeed of the engine.
11. Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as
necessary.
12. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations. Improper
disposal of fluidsand materials can harm the
environment.
WARNING - YOUR RESPONSIBILITY: Restrict theuse of this power machineto persons who read,
understand and follow the warnings and instructions in this manual andonthemachine.
NOTE: Not all safety labels shown may apply to your lawn mower.

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SECTION 2: SLOPE GAUGE
Use this page as a guide to determine slopes where you may not operate safely. Do not operate your lawn mower
on such slopes.
15°
SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE
A POWER POLE
A CORNER OF A BUILDING
OR A FENCE POST
FOLDONDOTTEDLINE,REPRESENTINGA15°SLOPE
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. Operate WALK-BEHIND mowers across the face of slopes, never up and down slopes.

7
SECTION 3: ASSEMBLING YOUR LAWN MOWER
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.
Removing Unit FromCarton
• 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 cartondown flat,and remove
packing material.
• Roll or slide unit out of carton and check carton
thoroughly for loose parts.
Hardware Pack
This lawn mower is shipped with the following loose
parts in the hardware pack for attaching the wheels:
Rear Wheels
• Two lock nuts 3/8-16
• Two spring washers
Front Wheels
• Two shoulder screws 3/8-16
• Two cupped washers .401 ID x .870 OD
Disconnecting Spark Plug Wire
Before setting up your lawn mower, disconnect the
spark plug wire from the spark plug and ground against
the engine. See Figure 1.
Figure 1
Setting Up Your Lawn Mower
• Lift up and pull back on the upper handle to raise
the handle into the operating position. Make certain
the lower handle is seated securely into the handle
bracket assemblies. To secure the upper and lower
handle, tighten the wing nuts near the top of lower
handle (carriage bolts must be seated properly into
the handle).
• Tighten the wing nuts at the end of the lower handle
to secure the handle to handle bracket assemblies.
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.
Figure 2
• Fasten the cable to the lower handle with the cable
tie found on the lower handle. Pull the cable tie tight
and trim off the excess. See Figure 3.
Figure 3
• If not already, move rope guide to the first hole
above the lower handle on right side. The wing nut
loosens and secures the rope guide to handle.
See Figure 4.
Figure 4
Spark
Plug Wire
Bolt
Spark Plug
Spark Plug
Wire
Lower
Handle
Wing
Nuts
Handle
Bracket
Assemblies
Cable Tie
Lower
Handle
Wing Nut
Starter Upper Handle
Rope
Rope
Guide Lower
Handle

8
• With the spark plug wire disconnected and
grounded, hold the blade control handle against the
upper handle, and pull the starter rope out of the
engine. Release the blade control handle. Slip the
starter rope into the rope guide. Tighten the wing
nut.
Installing Front Wheels
• Place the front of the mower deck on raised blocks.
• Slide wheel onto pivot arm assembly and secure
with lock nut. See Figure 5.
• Assemble the other side in the same manner.
Figure 5
Installing Rear Wheels
• Place the rear of the mower deck on raised blocks.
• Place spring washer (cupped side toward handle
bracketassembly)onthe axlethatextends fromthe
pivot arm assembly. See Figure 6.
• Slide wheel, with hollow side in, onto axle and
secure with lock nut.
• Assemble the other side in the same manner.
Figure 6
NOTE: This manual represents two different model
series. Model 500 series comes with the side
discharge assembly on the unit and a snap on
mulching baffle. The 510 series comes with the
mulching baffle on the unit and a snap on side
discharge chute.
Removing Chute Retainer
The chute deflector on your mower is held in an upright
position by a retainer for shipping purposes only.
Remove the retainer, following steps below, before
running the mower for the first time.
• Push the chute deflector up and towards the
engine. Holding the deflector in this position,
remove the retainer. See Figure 7.
• Lower the chute deflector carefully to its operating
position keeping your fingers out if the way.
Figure 7
WARNING: The chute retainer must be
removed and discarded before operating
the mower.
Installing Mulching Baffle
If your mower is equipped with the optional mulching
baffle, install it following these instructions:
• Lift up the side discharge chute and insert the
mulching baffle so that the notches at the bottom of
the baffle sit firmly on the lip of the deck opening.
See Figure 8.
• Snap the hooks of the baffle over the hinge pin on
the discharge chute. Make sure that the hooks
snaps into place, locking the mulching baffle firmly
onto the mower.
• Release the side discharge chute.
Figure 8
Lock Nut Pivot Arm
Assembly
Spring
Washer
Lock
Nut
Raise Chute
Remove
Retainer
Deflector
Baffle
Hook Insert Notches
On Top Of Lip Hinge
Pin
Discharge
Chute

9
Figure 9
Installing Side Discharge Chute
If your mower is equipped with the optional side
discharge chute, install it following these instructions:
•Slide the hooks of the side discharge chute over the
hinge pin on the mulching baffle. Make sure that the
hooks snaps into place, locking the chute firmly
onto the mower. See Figure 9.
•Release the mulching baffle.
SECTION 4: KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
Read this operator’s manual and safety rules before
operating your lawn mower. Compare the illustration in
Figure 10 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.
Recoil Starter
The recoil starter is attached to the right lower handle.
Stand behind the unit and pull the recoil starter to start
the unit. See Figure 10.
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 blade
control handle to stop engine and blade.
WARNING: This blade control mechanism
is a safety device. Never attempt to bypass
its operations.
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 an uniform
cut.
Engine Controls
See the separate engine manual for the location and
function of the controls on the engine.
Figure 10
Stopping Engine
•Release blade control handle to stop the engine
and the blade.
•Disconnect spark plug wire and ground it to a bolt
on the engine.
WARNING: Before using your lawn mower,
again refer to the Safety Section in this
manual. Always be careful.
Mulching
Baffle
Hooks
Side Discharge
Chute
Blade Control
Handle
Recoil
Starter
Discharge
Chute
Cutting Height
Adjustment
Mulching
Plug
Mulching
Plug Discharge
Chute
Lever

10
SECTION 5: OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER
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.
Gas and Oil Fill-Up
Service the engine with gasoline and oil 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.
Starting Engine
•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.
Using Your Lawn Mower
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 in any direction and cause serious personal
injury to the operator and others.
For best results, do not cut wet grass because it tends
to stick to the underside of the mower, preventing
proper discharge of grass clippings, and could cause
you to slip and fall. New grass, thick grass, or wet grass
may require a narrower cut.
For a healthier 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 is growth. This mower is
designed to be operated at full throttle to give you the
best cut and do the most effective job of 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.
SECTION 6: MAKING ADJUSTMENTS
Cutting Height Adjustment
WARNING: Do not at any time make any
adjustments without first stopping engine
and disconnecting spark plug wire.
Each wheel has a height adjustment lever which
provides cutting height adjustment. When the
adjustment 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 11.
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.

11
Figure 11
Handle Height Adjustment
Your mower is shipped with the handle in the higher
height position. To lower the height proceed as follows:
•Remove the starter rope from the rope guide.
•Disconnect the handle from the handle bracket
assemblies by removing the wing nuts.
See Figure 12.
•Position each handle bracket assembly stud into
one of the other holes in the lower handle.
•Each end of the lower handle must be placed in
same relative position.
Figure 12
SECTION 7: MAINTAINING YOUR LAWN MOWER
General Recommendations
•Always observe safety rules when performing any
maintenance.
•The warranty on this lawn mowerdoes 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.
•Periodically check all fasteners and make sure
these are tight.
Height Adjustment
Lever
Lower
Handle
Wing
Nuts
Handle
Bracket
Assemblies
Customer Responsibilities
MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULE
PRODUCT
ENGINE
SERVICE
DATES
Aftereachuse
Every25hours
Every50hours
Beforestorage
Every100hours
Onceaseason
Lubricate Wheels
Clean Deck
Blade Care
Change Oil
Clean Engine
Replace Air Filter
Check Spark Plug
Check Spark Arrester (if any)
Lubricate Blade Control
Check Oil

12
•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.
•Follow the maintenance schedule under Customer
Responsibilities to get quality performance from
your lawn mower.
Lubrication
WARNING: Always stop engine and
disconnect spark plug wire before
cleaning, lubricating or doing any kind of
service work on the lawn mower.
Blade Control Handle: 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 13.
Wheels: Lubricate the wheels at least once a season
with light oil (or motor oil). If the wheels are removed for
any reason, lubricate the surface of the axle bolt and
inner surface of the wheel with light oil.
Chute Deflector or Mulching Baffle: Lubricate the
torsion spring and pivot point periodically with light oil to
prevent any rust or binding.
Engine: Follow the separate engine manual packed
with you unit for lubrication instructions.
Figure 13
Maintenance
NOTE: When tipping the unit or emptying the fuel tank
keep the air cleaner 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
performance and life. Be certain to remove all grass,
dirt, and combustible debris from muffler area.
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.
Cutting Blade Removal,Replacement, and Sharpening
•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 14.
•Remove the blade and the adapter from the
crankshaft.
Figure 14
WARNING: Periodically inspect the blade
adapter for cracks, especially if you strike
a foreign object. Replace when necessary.
Lubricate
Lubricate
Blade
Hex Bolt
Blade Bell
Adapter
Support

13
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 end tips facing
up or 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 bell 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.
SECTION 8: TROUBLESHOOTING
NOTE: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments listed above, contact your nearest authorized service dealer.
Problem Cause Remedy
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 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.
Engine runs erratic 1. Spark plug wire loose.
2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.
3. Vent in gas plugged.
4. Water or dirt in fuel system.
5. Dirty air cleaner.
6. Carburetor out of adjustment.
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.
Engine overheats 1. Engine oil level low.
2. Air flow restricted.
3. Carburetor not adjusted properly.
1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.
2. Remove blower housing and clean.
3. Adjust carburetor.
Idles poorly 1. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too
wide.
2. Carburetor improperly adjusted.
3. Dirty air cleaner.
1. Reset gap to .030”or replace spark
plug.
2. Adjust carburetor.
3. Clean air cleaner.
Excessive vibration 1. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced.
2. Bent cutting blade.
1. Tighten blade and adapter. Balance
blade.
2. Replace blade.
Mower will not mulch grass 1. Wet grass.
2. Excessively high grass.
3. Dull blade.
1. Do not mow when grass is wet; wait
until later to cut.
2. Mow once at a high cutting height, then
mow again at desired height or make a
narrower cutting path.
3. Sharpen or replace blade.
Uneven cut 1. Wheels not positioned correctly.
2. Dull blade.
1. Place all four wheels in same height
position.
2. Sharpen or replace blade.

14
Models 500 thru 519
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
6
11
13
14 16
17
19
20
11
23
24
25
26
29
33
34
35
34
33
36
37
38
39
31
40
42
43
44
45 46
18
12
10
15
41
21
27
32
31
22
28
17
48
47
47
48
48

15
Models 500 thru 519
Ref.
No. Part No. Part Description
1. 747-1161A Blade Control Handle
2. 749-1092A Upper Handle
3. 746-0957 Blade Control Cable - B&S
746-1130 Blade Control Cable - B&S
746-1091 Blade Control Cable - Tec
4. 710-1205 Eye Bolt
5. 720-0279 Wing Nut
6. 720-0284 Wing Nut
7. 736-0451 Shoulder Washer .320 ID x .93 OD
8. 710-1174 Carriage Bolt 5/16-18 x 2.0
9. 725-0157 Cable Tie
10. 749-1093B Lower Handle
11. 710-0896 Hex Screw 1/4-14 x .625
12. 782-9065 Hinge Clip
13. 731-2280 Trail Shield
14. 682-3062A Handle Bracket Assembly - RH
15. 682-3063A Handle Bracket Assembly - LH
16. 736-3050 Flat Washer .406 ID x .812 OD
17. 712-0431 Lock Nut 3/8 -16
18. 710-0654A Hex Washer Screw3/8-16 x 1.0
19. 682-0094 Deck Assembly 22”
682-0108 Deck Assembly 22” (No Sprigs)
20. 736-0270 Bell Washer .265 x .75
21. 741-0751 Height Adjuster Bearing
22. 682-0113 Pivot Arm Assembly
23. 748-0376C Blade Adapter
24. 742-0642A Blade 22”
742-0742A Mulching Blade 22”
25. 710-1044 Hex Cap Screw 3/8-24 x 1.5
26. 736-0524A Blade Bell Support
27. 738-1172 Shoulder Screw 3/8 - 16 x .302
28. 736-0741 Bell Washer .760 ID x 1.25 OD
29. 734-1988 Front WheelAssembly 7 x 1.8
30. 738-0102 Shoulder Screw 3/8 - 16
31. 720-0426 Height Adjuster Knob
32. 732-1026 Front Spring Lever
33. 747-0710 Hinge Pin
34. 732-1014 Torsion Spring
35. 731-1035B Chute Hinge
36. 731-1034B Side Discharge Chute Assembly
37. 631-0098 Mulching Baffle(If Equipped)
38. 710-0216 Hex Cap Screw 3/8-16 x .75
39. 741-0717 Thrust Bearing .688 ID x 1.938 OD
40. 682-0093 Rear Pivot Arm Assembly
41. 732-0984B Rear Spring Lever
42. 738-1127 Shoulder Screw 3/8 - 16 x .442
43. 736-0182 Spring Washer
44. 734-1864 Rear Wheel Assembly 14 x 1.8
45. 731-2230 Snap Discharge Chute (If Equipped)
46. 731-1386C Snap Mulching Plug (If Equipped)
47. 736-0105 Washer Spacer .401 ID x .870 OD
48. 712-0130 Hex Lock Nut 3/8-16
Ref.
No. Part No. Part Description

MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR:
The limited warranty set forth below is given by MTD PROD-
UCTS INC (“MTD”) with respect to new merchandise pur-
chased 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
material 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, com-
mercial use, neglect, accident, improper maintenance, alter-
ation, vandalism, theft, fire, water or damage because of
other peril or natural disaster. Damage resulting from the
installation or use of any accessory or attachment not
approved by MTD Products Inc. for use with the product(s)
covered by this manual will void your warranty as to any
resulting damages.
Normal wear parts or components thereof are subject to sep-
arate terms as follows: All normal wear part 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 material or workmanship of OTHER
component parts. Normal wear parts and components
include, but are not limited to, belts, blades, blade adapters,
grass bags, rider deck wheels, seats, snow thrower skid
shoes, shave plates and tires. Batteries are covered by a 90-
day limited replacement warranty.
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, please check for a listing in the Yellow Pages or
contact the Customer Service Department of MTD PROD-
UCTS INC by calling 1-800-800-7310 or writing to P.O. Box
368022, Cleveland, Ohio 44136-9722.
This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the
following cases:
a.The engine or component parts thereof. These items
carry a separate manufacturer’s warranty. Please refer to
the applicable manufacturer’s warranty on these items.
b. Log splitter pumps, valves and cylinders have a separate
one year warranty.
c. Routine maintenance items such as lubricants, filters,
blade sharpening and tune-ups, or adjustments such as
brake adjustments, clutch adjustments or deck adjust-
ments; and normal deterioration of the exterior finish due
to use or exposure.
d.MTD does not extend any warranty for products sold or
exported outside of the United States of America, its
possessions and territories, except those sold through
MTD’s authorized channels of export distribution.
No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of
merchantability or 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 or guaranty, 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 War-
ranty, the exclusive remedy is repair or replacement of
the product as set forth above. (Some states do not allow
limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the
above limitation may not apply to you.)
The provisions as set forth in this Warranty provide the
sole and exclusive remedy arising from the sales. MTD
shall not be liable for incidental or consequential loss or
damages including, without limitation, expenses
incurred for substitute or replacement lawn care ser-
vices, for transportation or for related expenses, or for
rental expenses to temporarily replace a warranted prod-
uct. (Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of
incidental or consequential damages, so the above exclusion
or limitation 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 the 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 use or misuse or inability to use the product.
This limited warranty shall not extend to anyone other than
the original purchaser, original lessee or the person for whom
it was purchased as a gift.
How State Law Relates to this Warranty: This limited war-
ranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have
other rights which vary from state to state.