MTD YARD-MAN 449 User manual

IMPORTANT: Read safety rules and instructions carefully before operating equipment.
21” Rear-Discharge
Lawn Mower
Model 449
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
Operator’s Manual
FORM NO.
769-00540C.fm
(9/17/2004)
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

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 yardman.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 1-800-800-7310.
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 10
Operating Your Lawn Mower 11
Maintaining Your Lawn Mower 12
Servicing Your Lawn Mower 13
Making Adjustments 15
Off Season Storage 16
Trouble Shooting Guide 17
Illustrated Parts 18
Warranty 20
Content Page
Copy the model number here:
Copy the serial number here:
www.yardman.com
MTD LLC
P. O. BOX 361131
CLEVELAND,OH 44136
330-220-4683
800-800-7310
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 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 toward 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 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.
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.
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: 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.
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.

4
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
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, never
run. Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives,
walkways or roads.
10. If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally,
stop the engine and check immediately for the
cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
11. 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.
12. 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.
13. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a
burn. Do not touch.
14. Only use parts and accessories made for this
machine by the original equipment manufacturer
(O.E.M). Failure to do so can cause personal injury.
15. 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. 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 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.
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.

5
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. 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
15°
SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE
A POWER POLE
A CORNER OF A BUILDING
OR A FENCE POST
FOLDON DOTTEDLINE,REPRESENTINGA15°SLOPE
USE THIS PAGE AS A GUIDE TO DETERMINE SLOPES WHERE YOU MAY NOT OPERATE SAFELY.
Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). A riding mower could overturn
and cause serious injury. If operating a walk-behind mower on such a slope, it is extremely difficult to maintain your footing and you could slip,
resulting in serious injury.
Operate RIDING mowers up and down slopes, never across the face of slopes. Operate WALK-BEHIND mowers across the face of slopes, never up and down slopes.
WARNING

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 top flap to open carton.
• Remove loose parts if included with unit.
• 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
the loose parts or the entire unit from the carton.
Tools Required
• Pair of Pliers
• Funnel
Disconnecting Spark Plug
• Before setting up your lawn mower, disconnect the
spark plug wire from the spark plug. See Figure 1.
Figure 1
Assembling Handle
For shipping purposes, the grass bag was placed on
top of the unit. Remove it from the unit and set it out of
the way. See Figure 2.
Figure 2
• Raise the lower handle, as shown in Figure 2, until
it snaps into place.
• Raise the upper handle as shown in Figure 2.
• Tighten the two wing nuts which are already on the
handle. See Figure 3.
Figure 3
NOTE: Make sure to route the cables outside 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.
• Using a pair of pliers, insert the hairpin clip into the
inner hole in the weld pin. Repeat on the other side.
See Figure 4.
Figure 4
• 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.
Spark Plug
Wire
Spark Plug
Lift upper
handle
Lift lower handle
Grass Bag
Lower Handle
Upper Handle
Tighten these
wing nuts
Lower
Handle
Upper
Handle
Insert Hairpin
Weld Pin
Handle Mounting
Bracket
Hairpin
Clip
Wing Nut
Clip
Carriage Bolt

8
• Insert post of cable ties that are on lower handle
into the holes provided on the lower handle. The
holes may be on the inside or outside. Pull cable
ties tight and cut off the extra. See Figure 5 below.
Figure 5
Attaching Starter Rope
The rope guide is already attached to the right side of
the lower handle of your mower. See Figure 6.
• With the spark plug wire disconnected and
grounded, hold the blade control handle against the
upper handle, and pull the starter rope up to the
rope guide. See Figure 6.
• Slip the rope through the rope guide as shown
below. Tighten the wing nut holding the rope guide
to the upper handle.
Figure 6
Grass Catcher Assembly
NOTE: Make certain the grass bag is turned right side
out before assembling (warning label will be on the
outside).
Parts for Soft Grass Bag
1. Frame Assembly
2. Bag
Assembling Soft Grass Bag
• Place the bag over the frame (black plastic side is
the bottom of bag). Slip the openings in the side of
the plastic channels on the bag over the hooks on
the grass catcher frame.
• Secure bag to frame by working the plastic
channels on bag over frame as shown in Figure 7B.
All of the plastic channels except the center top of
the bag attach from the outside of bag. The center
top of the bag attaches from inside the bag.
Figure 7
Attaching Grass Catcher
• 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 8.
Figure 8
NOTE: Make sure that the cables are routed to the
outside of the handle when attaching the grass catcher.
Cable Tie
Post on
Cable Tie
Lower Handle
Starter
Rope
Rope Guide
Wing Nut
Frame Bag
Hook
Plastic
Channels
AB
Frame
Assembly

9
Never operate the mower unless the
hooks on the grass catcher are seated in
the slots on the handle bracket
assemblies, and the rear discharge door
rests firmly against the top of the grass
catcher.
Removing Grass Catcher
• Lift the rear discharge door on the mower, and lift
the grass catcher up.
• Release the rear discharge door.
Chute Deflector (If Equipped)
If your mower is equipped with the chute deflector,
assemble as follows:
Figure 9
• Slide the rod into the upper edge of the chute
deflector so the tab on the rod is toward the left side
of the chute deflector. When assembled correctly,
the rod will extend further to the left side than the
right side. See Figure 9.
• Slide the push nut onto the right side of the rod to
secure.
Attaching Chute Deflector (If Equipped)
• Lift the rear discharge door on the mower.
• Place the ends of the rod into the slots in the handle
bracket assemblies. See Figure 10.
• Release the rear discharge door.
Figure 10
Converting to Mulcher
• Lift the rear discharge door on the mower, and lift
the grass catcher up.
• Release the rear discharge door.
Tab
Rod
Chute
Deflector
Push
Nut
Rear
Discharge
Door
Slots in
Handle Bracket
Assemblies

10
SECTION 4: KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
Read this owner’s manual and safety rules before operating your lawn mower. Compare the illustrations in Figure
11 with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments.
Figure 11
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.
See Figure 11.
Lower Bail Handle
The lower bail handle is located on the upper handle
and is used to engage the drive. Squeeze the bail
handle against the upper handle to engage the drive;
release it to slow down or stop mower from propelling.
See Figure 11.
Throttle Control
The engine is equipped with a constant speed throttle
for maximum engine and cutting performance.
Recoil Starter
The recoil starter is attached to the handle. Stand
behind the unit and pull the recoil starter to start engine.
Primer
The primer is used to pump gas into the carburetor. Use
it to assist in starting a cold engine, but do not use it
when restarting a warm engine after a short shutdown.
Blade Control Handle
Lower Bail Handle
Grass Catcher
Height Adjustment Lever
Chute Deflector
(Optional)
Recoil Starter
WARNING: The blade control handle is a
safety device. Never attempt to bypass its
operations. The blade will be rotating whenever
the engine is running.

11
SECTION 5: OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER
Gas and Oil Fill-Up
• Service the engine with gasoline and oil as
instructed in the separate engine manual packed
with your mower. Read the instructions carefully.
Before Starting Mower
• Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. Make certain
the metal cap on the end of the spark plug wire is
fastened securely over the metal tip on the spark
plug.
Starting Engine
• Push the primer three times. Wait two seconds
between each push. In temperatures below 55° F,
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 start of compression cycle (rope
will pull slightly harder at this point). Let the rope
rewind slowly. Pull rope with a rapid, continuous,
full arm stroke. Keeping a firm grip on the starter
handle, let the rope rewind slowly.
Stopping Engine
• Release blade control handle to stop the engine
and the blade.
• Disconnect spark plug wire and move away from
spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
NOTE: See your engine manual packed with your unit
for more detailed instructions.
Operating Your Lawn Mower
• Once the engine has started, squeeze the lower
bail handle and the blade control handle against the
upper handle to run the mower.
•Do not operate the mower without the mulching
cover, the grass catcher bag, or the discharge
chute properly installed.
• 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,
preventing proper discharge of grass clippings,
poor mulching conditions, and could cause you to
slip and fall. New grass, thick grass, or wet grass
may require a narrower cut.
• For a healthy 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.
WARNING: Never fill fuel tank indoors, or
when engine is running or hot. Do not smoke
when filling up the fuel tank.
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 you strike a foreign object,
stop the engine. Remove spark plug wire from
spark plug, thoroughly inspect the mower for
any damage. 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.

12
Bagging Grass Clippings
You can use the grass catcher bag to collect clippings
while you are operating the mower.
• Attach the grass catcher following instructions on
page 8 of this manual. Grass clippings will
automatically collect in the bag as you run mower.
• Operate mower till the grass bag is full.
• Stop the engine completely by releasing the control
handle. Make sure that the unit has come to a
complete stop.
• Lift discharge door and pull grass bag up and away
from the mower to dispose of the grass clippings.
Adjusting Cutting Height
Refer to height adjustments section of this manual on
page 15 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 have determined which
cutting height is preferred.
SECTION 6: MAINTAINING YOUR LAWN MOWER
Cleaning the Lawn Mower
• Clean the underside of the mower deck after each
use to prevent any build-up of grass clippings. 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 reduced
serviceability.
• Disconnect spark plug wire. Drain gasoline from the
mower, or place a piece of plastic under gas cap.
• Tilt the mower so that the side with the air cleaner is
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. If you had put
plastic under the gas cap, remove it now.
Engine Maintenance
A list of key maintenance jobs required for good
performance by the mower is given below. Follow the
engine manual for detailed list and instructions.
• Change engine oil after the first two operating
hours and every 25 operating hours thereafter.
Check the oil level before starting the engine every
time.
• Service foam filter in the air cleaner every 25 hours
of use and replace the paper filter component every
100 hours. You may have to service the air filter
more frequently if you are operating the mower
under extremely dusty conditions.
• Clean 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 or every 50 hours of operation.
Spark plug replacement is recommended at the
start of each season.
• Inspect muffler periodically, and replace if
necessary. Damaged mufflers or spark arresters
can create a fire hazard. Make sure to avoid muffler
and surrounding areas while the mower engine is
hot because temperature of these areas of the
engine may exceed 150oF.
WARNING: Always stop engine and
disconnect spark plug wire before performing
any maintenance or adjustments on the mower.
WARNING: Never tip mower more than 90
degrees in any direction and do not leave it
tipped for long. Oil can drain into the upper part
of the engine causing a starting problem.

13
Lubrication (See Figure 12)
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.
Chute Deflector & Rear Discharge Door
• Lubricate the torsion springs and the pivot point on
each end of the rear discharge door using a light oil.
This will prevent rusting.
Engine
• Follow the engine manual instructions and
recommended schedule for lubricating engine.
Transmission
• The transmission is pre-lubricated and sealed at
the factory and does not require lubrication.
Pivot Points
• Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control
handle, lower bail handle and the cutting height
adjustment lever at least once a season with light
oil. The blade control handle and the lower bail
handle must operate freely in both directions. The
cutting height adjustment levers should be able to
move easily. Figure 12
SECTION 7: SERVICING YOUR LAWN MOWER
Blade Care
Periodically inspect the blade adapter assembly 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 bolt and the blade bell support that
hold the blade and blade adapter assembly to the
engine crankshaft. See Figure 13.
• Remove the blade and the adapter assembly from
the crankshaft. Figure 13
To Replace Blade:
• Before reinstalling the blade and adapter assembly
to the unit, lubricate the engine crankshaft and the
inner surface of the adapter with light oil.
Lubricate
Lubricate
Lubricate
Follow engine manual
for lubrication
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.
Blade
Adapter
Blade
Hex Bolt
Assembly
Blade Bell
Support

14
• 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 assembly 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.
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.
Blade Mounting Torque:
Center bolt: 450 in.lbs. minimum, 600 in.lbs. maximum.
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.
IMPORTANT: 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.
Replacing Drive Belt
• Remove two shoulder screws securing the front
drive cover to the mower deck. See Figure 14.
• 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
14. Do not remove the screw completely. As you
loosen it, the tension on the belt will be released.
• 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.
Figure 14
• Slide the belt off the engine pulley and around the
blade. See Figure 15.
Figure 15
• 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 belt
tension spring to the transmission and reassemble
the front drive cover.
WARNING: To ensure safe operation of
your unit, all nuts and bolts must be checked
periodically for correct tightness.
WARNING: As always, use a thick piece of
rag to handle the blade while sliding the belt
around it. 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
Left Front Wheel
Right Front Wheel
Engine Pulley

15
Replacing Rear Flap
• To remove rear flap, cut off the flat end of the wire
rod which secures it to the deck. See Figure 16.
• Attach the new flap and new rod to deck, bending
the ends of the new rod over to secure to deck.
Figure 16
SECTION 8: MAKING ADJUSTMENTS
Adjusting Handle Height
Your mower is shipped with the handle in the higher
height position. To lower height, proceed as follows.
• Remove the starter rope from the rope guide.
• Remove the upper handle by removing the hand
knobs and carriage bolts. Lay the upper handle out
of the way, being careful not to bend or kink the
cables.
• Remove the hairpin clips from the weld pins on the
handle brackets and remove the wing nuts and
carriage bolts from the upper hole on the handle
mounting bracket. Refer to Figure 4. Press out on
the legs of the lower handle and remove lower
handle from the mower.
• Turn the lower handle around so the notch on the
bottom of the lower handle is facing forward as
shown in Figure 17. Reassemble, placing the
bottom holes in the handle over the weld pins in the
handle mounting bracket.
• Reassemble the upper handle to the lower handle.
• Insert hairpin clips in the inner holes of the weld
pins and insert the carriage bolts in the upper hole
on the handle mounting bracket and secure with
plastic wing nuts.
• Attach the starter rope as instructed in “Assembling
Your Lawn Mower” section.
Figure 17
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
position provides cutting height adjustment. Each
adjusting plate has nine height positions. Height of cut
will change when you move the thumb lever from one
position to another.
Handle
Bracket
Handle
Bracket
Rear Discharge
Door
WireRod
Rear Flap
Notch
Lower
Handle

16
• Simply depress the lever towards the wheel and
move the lever assembly to desired position. See
Figure 18.
Figure 18
Adjusting Carburetor
NOTE: A dirty air cleaner may cause an engine to run
rough too. Make sure that the air cleaner is clean and
attached to the carburetor before deciding to adjust the
carburetor.
To adjust carburetor, please follow the engine manual.
SECTION 9: 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 according to
instructions on page 12.
NOTE: We do not recommend the use of pressure
washers or garden hose to clean your unit. They may
cause damage to pulleys, bearings, or the engine. The
use of water will result in shortened life and reduce
serviceability.
• Lubricate the mower as instructed on page 13.
• You can fold your mower’s handle for convenience
of storage by following directions below:
Remove the starter rope from the rope
guide; loosen two hand knobs on two
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.
Refer to page 13.
Gasoline
• Do not store gasoline from one season to another.
NOTE: Gasoline, stored more than one month, may
affect engine performance.
• 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 or rocksalt.
NOTE: If storing the mower in an unventilated or metal
storage shed, make sure to rustproof the equipment
with a light oil or silicone.
Engine
• Follow recommendations in the accompanying
engine manual for off-season storage of the
engine.
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.

17
SECTION 10: TROUBLE-SHOOTING GUIDE
NOTE: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments listed above, contact your nearest 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 and start again.
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 clean,
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 fouled, 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. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced
2. Bent cutting blade
3. Bent engine crankshaft
1. Tighten and balance blade.
2. Replace blade.
3. Contact your 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 in same height position
2. Dull blade
1. Reposition all wheels at same height.
2. Sharpen or replace blade.

18
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.
89 31
30
29
83
38 36
35
28
25
24
23
26
80
18
41
42
84
79
44
73
54
40
53
68
43
60
62
74
75
86
78
85
77
56
57
58
59
72
71
64
31
37
70
65
69
66
88
68
2
1
9
14
7
15
12
13
11
11
3
8
39
76
SECTION 11: PARTS LIST FOR MODEL 445
27
68
32
33
34
10
4
5
6
68
90
91†
92†
93†
† If Equipped
94†

19
Model 445
Ref.
No Part No. Description
1. 747-1214 Lower Bail Handle
2. 747-1161A Blade Control Handle
3. 749-1092A Upper Handle
4. 750-04162 Spacer.390OD x.810ID x.950”
5. 664-04027 Grass Bag
6. 710-1650 Shoulder Screw
7. 746-1114 Control Cable: 50.56”
8. 749-0928A Lower Handle
9. 746-04112 Drive Cable
10. 747-04035 Rear Door Pivot Rod
11. 710-1174 Carriage Bolt
12. 720-0284 Handle Knob
13. 736-0451 Saddle Washer
14. 720-0279 Wing Nut
15. 710-1205 Rope Guide
18. 631-0075B Engine Spacer Assembly
23. 714-0104 Hairpin Clip
24. 731-1236 Rear Trail Shield
25. 732-0700 Trail Shield Wire
26. 732-04089 Torsion Spring LH
27. 782-5003 Rear Baffle LH
28. 710-1017 Scr. AB 1/4-14 x 0.625”
29. 732-04090 Torsion Spring RH
30. 710-1652 Hex Scr. w/ Wash. 1/4-20 x 0.625”
31. 720-0426 Knob
32. 747-04080 Grass Catcher Frame
33. 712-0397 Wing Nut
34. 710-0703 Hex Carriage Screw
35. 787-01144 Handle Bracket RH
787-01143 Handle Bracket LH
36. 687-02071 Pivot Arm Assembly RH
687-02070 Pivot Arm Assembly LH
37. 732-0706 Front Lever RH
732-0707 Front Lever LH
38. 738-0507B Shoulder Screw
39. 726-0240 Cable Tie
40. 732-1043 Belt Tension Spring
41. 787-01007 Rear Discharge Deck: 21”
42. 754-0637A V-Belt
43. 782-5002A Front Baffle
44. 618-0657 Transmission Assembly Compl.
53. 731-04580 Front Drive Cover: Yellow
54. 715-04011 Roll Pin
56. 682-0015 Bearing Assembly
57. 736-0447 Wave Washer
58. 782-0512B Height Adj. Plate RH
782-0511A Height Adj. Plate LH
59. 687-02044 Pivot Plate Assembly
60. 748-04015A 21” One Piece Blade Adapter
62. 742-0741 Mulching Blade w/ Star: 21”
64. 710-0216 Hex Screw
65. 715-0221 Dowel Pin
66. 717-1762 Gear 14T RH
717-1761 Gear 14T LH
68. 712-0431 Hex Nut
69. 716-0865 Snap Ring
70. 782-7551 Wheel Dust Cap
71. 716-0102 Snap Ring
72. 736-0474 Washer DD 1.5” O.D.
73. 756-04017 Input Pulley
74. 710-1257 Hex Bolt
75. 736-0524A Bell Blade Support
76. 782-5004A Rear Baffle RH
77. 750-1166 Slev. Spacer LH
750-04178 Slev. Spacer RH
78. 687-02068 Handle Brkt Assembly RH Compl.
79. 687-02069 Handle Brkt Assembly LH Compl.
80. 731-04134 RD Chute Door
83. 732-04175 Spring Lever
84. 710-1008 TT Screw
85. 682-0512A Height Adj. Assembly RH Compl.
86. 682-0511A Height Adj. Assembly LH Compl.
88. 634-04100 Front Wheel Complete, 8x1.8
89. 734-04087 Rear Wheel Complete, 8x1.8
90. 731-04525 Engine Shroud
91. 726-0201† Nut: Spd.3125ID
92. 711-0996† Rod
93. 731-1405† Side Discharge Adapter
94. 190-104-000† Chute Deflector Complete
Ref.
No Part No. Description
† If Equipped

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
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 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 not
limited to items such as: batteries, belts, blades, blade
adapters, 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,
Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019, or call 1-800-800-7310 or log
on to our Web site at www.mtdproducts.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
separate 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.
d. Service completed by someone other than an
authorized service dealer.
e. MTD does not extend any warranty for products sold or
exported outside of the United States, its possessions
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 warranty, whether written or oral, except as
mentioned above, given by any person or entity,
including a dealer or retailer, with respect to any product,
shall bind MTD. 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
damage including, without limitation, expenses incurred
for substitute or replacement lawn care services or for
rental expenses to temporarily replace a warranted
product.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of
incidental 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.
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 purchased
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.
IMPORTANT: Owner must present Original Proof of
Purchase to obtain warranty coverage.
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019; Phone: [phone]