Poulan Pro 172777 User manual

172777 Rev. 2 05.08.03 BY Printed in U.S.A.
ECONOMY PUSH ROTARY
Lawn Mower

2
Safety Rules ......................................... 2
Assembly .............................................. 9
Operation.............................................. 16
Maintenance......................................... 19
Service and Adjustments...................... 21
Storage ................................................. 22
Troubleshooting .................................... 23
SAFETY RULES
TABLE OF CONTENTS
IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throw-
ing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious
injury or death.
Look for this symbol to point out
important safety precautions. It means
CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!!
YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED.
WARNING: In order to prevent acci-
dental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs,
always disconnect spark plug wire and
place wire where it cannot contact plug.
WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its
constituents, and certain vehicle compo-
nents contain or emit chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm.
WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and
related accessories contain lead and lead
compounds, chemicals known to the State
of California to cause cancer and birth
defects or other reproductive harm. Wash
hands after handling.
CAUTION: Muffler and other engine
parts become extremely hot during
operation and remain hot after engine has
stopped. To avoid severe burns on contact,
stay away from these areas.
I. GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all
instructions on the machine and in the
manual(s) before starting. Be thoroughly
familiar with the controls and the proper
use of the machine before starting.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts. Keep clear of the dis-
charge opening at all times.
• Only allow responsible individuals, who
are familiar with the instructions, to oper-
ate the machine.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks,
toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc., which
could be picked up and thrown by the
blade.
• Be sure the area is clear of other people
before mowing. Stop machine if anyone
enters the area.
• Do not operate the mower when bare-
foot or wearing open sandals. Always
wear substantial foot wear.
• Do not pull mower backwards unless
absolutely necessary. Always look down
and behind before and while moving
backwards.
• Do not operate the mower without
proper guards, plates, grass catcher or
other safety protective devices in place.
• See manufacturer’s instructions for
proper operation and installation of
accessories. Only use accessories ap-
proved by the manufacturer.
• Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel
drives, walks, or roads.
• Stop the engine (motor) whenever you
leave the equipment, before cleaning the
mower or unclogging the chute.

3
• Shut the engine (motor) off and wait until
the blade comes to complete stop before
removing grass catcher.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial
light.
• Do not operate the machine while under
the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Never operate machine in wet grass.
Always be sure of your footing: keep a
firm hold on the handle and walk; never
run.
• Disengage the self-propelled mech-
anism or drive clutch on mowers so
equipped before starting the engine
(motor).
• If the equipment should start to vibrate
abnormally, stop the engine (motor) and
check immediately for the cause. Vibra-
tion is generally a warning of trouble.
• Always wear safety goggles or safety
glasses with side shields when operating
mower.
II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to slip
and fall accidents which can result in
severe injury. All slopes require extra cau-
tion. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not
mow it.
DO:
• Mow across the face of slopes: never
up and down. Exercise extreme caution
when changing direction on slopes.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
limbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.
DO NOT:
• Do not trim near drop-offs, ditches or
embankments. The operator could lose
footing or balance.
• Do not trim excessively steep slopes.
• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced foot-
ing could cause slipping.
III. CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator
is not alert to the presence of children.
Children are often attracted to the machine
and the mowing activity.
Never assume
that children will remain where you last
saw them.
• Keep children out of the trimming area
and under the watchful care of another
responsible adult.
• Be alert and turn machine off if children
enter the area.
• Before and while walking backwards,
look behind and
down for small children.
• Never allow children to operate the ma-
chine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
that may obscure vision.
IV. SERVICE
• Use extra care in handling gasoline and
other fuels. They are flammable and
vapors are explosive.
- Use only an approved container.
- Never remove gas cap or add fuel
with the engine running.
Allow engine to cool before refueling.
Do not smoke.
- Never refuel the machine indoors.
- Never store the machine or fuel
container inside where there is an
open flame, such as a water heater.
• Never run machine inside a closed area.
• Never make adjustments or repairs with
the engine (motor) running. Disconnect
the spark plug wire, and keep the wire
away from the plug to prevent accidental
starting.
• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade
attachment bolts, tight and keep equip-
ment in good condition.
• Never tamper with safety devices. Check
their proper operation regularly.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage. Allow machine to cool before
storing.
• Stop and inspect the equipment if you
strike an object. Repair, if necessary,
before restarting.
• Never attempt to make wheel height
adjustments while the engine (motor) is
running.
• Grass catcher components are subject
to wear, damage, and deterioration,
which could expose moving parts or
allow objects to be thrown. Frequently
check components and replace with
manufacturer’s recommended parts,
when necessary.
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut.
Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and
use extra caution when servicing them.
• Do not change the engine governor set-
ting or overspeed the engine.

4
02584-bs_quantum
02583-bs_classic
02585-bs_sprint
01737-honda
®
02579-briggs
CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new Lawn Mower. It has been designed,
engineered and manufactured to give you the best possible dependability and perfor-
mance.
Should you experience any problems you cannot easily remedy, please contact your
nearest authorized service center. They have competent, well trained technicians and
the proper tools to service or repair this unit.
• Read the SAFETY RULES and this Operator's Manual in its entirety before you at-
tempt to assemble or operate your new lawn mower to insure proper operation and to
prevent injury to yourself and others. Save this manual for future reference.
• Your new lawn mower has been assembled at the factory with the exception of those
parts left unassembled for shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper operation
of your lawn mower, all parts and hardware you assemble must be tightened securely.
Use the correct tools as necessary to ensure proper tightness.
• All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc., necessary to complete the assembly have
been placed in the parts bag.
TO REMOVE MOWER FROM CARTON
• Remove all loose parts from carton.
• Remove lawn mower housing with care. Avoid touching blade under housing. Always
wear gloves or other protection when working under or lifting mower.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU ASSEMBLE OR OPERATE YOUR LAWN
MOWER
Do I have a side or rear discharge lawn
mower?
Look for the grass discharge opening on
your mower. If the opening is on the right
side of the mower housing, it is a side
discharge mower. If the opening is at the
back of the mower housing, it is a rear dis-
charge mower. Only rear discharge lawn
mowers have a grass catcher included with
the mower. Approved grass catchers for
side discharge mowers may be purchased
from your nearest authorized dealer.
Do I have a mulching lawn mower?
Look for the grass discharge opening on
your mower. Raise the discharge guard
(rear door on rear discharge mowers). If
the opening is closed off by a plate, then
your lawn mower is mulcher ready. To
convert to a discharging mower, see the
Operation section of this manual.
LEFT
HAND
SIDE
RIGHT
HAND
SIDE
FRONT
What is the right and left side of the
lawn mower?
When right hand (RH) or left hand (LH) is
mentioned in this manual, it means when
you are in the operating position (standing
behind the handle).
What kind of engine is on my lawn
mower?
When learning how to operate your new
lawn mower, you will need to know what
kind of engine powers the mower. A decal
on the engine will indicate the manu-
facturer and type or brand name of the
engine.
BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINES
HONDA
ENGINES
TECUMSEH
ENGINES
BACK or REAR
(Operating Position)
02579-briggs
02579-briggs

5
NOTE: Depending upon the features on the lawn mower model you purchased, all the
parts shown may not be included with your mower.
For ease of assembly, aside of your work area, lay out all hardware in the groups shown.
Each step of the assembly instructions will identify the group needed for that step.
(1) Lower Handle
(1) Upper Handle
(4)
Wheels
(1) Discharge Guard
(Side Discharge models only)
(1) Control Bar
(1) Engine Zone
Control Cable
(1) Remote Throttle Control
(If Equipped)
(1) Grass Catcher Bag
(Rear Discharge mowers only)
(1) Grass Catcher Frame
(Rear Discharge mowers only)
(4) Wheel Height Adjusters
(If Equipped)
NOTE: Some model lawn mowers
already have the wheels
preassembled to the mower.
PARTS PACKED SEPARATELY IN CARTON
PARTS BAG CONTENTS NOT SHOWN ACTUAL SIZE
(1) Upstop
Bracket
(4) Hubcaps
(If Equipped) Side Mount
Cable
Ties Center Mount
One (1) only of the Starter
Rope Guides shown below:

6
GROUP “A”
ASSEMBLY
LOCATION PARTS BAG CONTENTS
GROUP “B”
LOWER
HANDLE
TO
MOWER
DECK
(4) Hex Bolts
3/8-16 x 3/4
(2) Hairpin Cotters
(4) Flange Locknuts 3/8-16
(4) Washers 7/8" Dia.
For models with Bolt-on lower handle only
For models with deck handle
brackets only
UPPER
HANDLE
TO
LOWER
HANDLE (2) Locknuts
1/4-20
(4) Hex Bolts
3/8-16 x 3/4
For models with fixed upper handle
only
For models with folding upper handle only
(2) Handle Bolts
(2) Wing Nuts
(1) Upstop
Bracket
Screw
#10-24 x 1/2
For all
models

7
ASSEMBLY
LOCATION PARTS BAG CONTENTS (continued)
WHEELS
TO
MOWER
HOUSING
GROUP "C"
(4) Shoulder Bolts
(4) Spacers
(2 or 4)
Washers 1-1/4"
Dia.
(4) Locknuts
3/8-16
(4) Retainer
Springs
(4) Washers 1" Dia. (4) Wheel Adjuster Knobs
For models with bolt-on wheels only
(4) Flanged
Locknuts
3/8-16
(4) Locknuts
3/8-16
For models with "Quick Adjust" wheel
height adjusters only
GUARD
TO
MOWER
HOUSING
(Side Discharge
models only)
GROUP "D"
(2) Hex Bolts
1/4-20 (2) Washers
3/4" Dia.
(2) Spacers
(If equipped)
(2) Locknuts
1/4-20
For models with bolt-on discharge guard only
For models with spring loaded
discharge guard only
(2) Hex Washer Head
Self-tapping Screws
1/4-20 x 3/8
(2) Locknuts
1/4-20
Screw Mounted Nut Mounted

8
(2) Screw 1/4-20 x 3/8
REMOTE
THROTTLE
CONTROL
(If equipped)
TO ENGINE
GROUP "E"
(1) Cable Clip with
#10 x 5/8 Hex Head Screw
(For Briggs Classic & Sprint Engines
only with spark plug to front of mower)
(1) Diecast Clamp with
#10 x 5/8 Hex Head Screw
(For Briggs Engines only)
NOTE: Tecumseh engines have clamp and screw
preassembled to engine.
ASSEMBLY
LOCATION PARTS BAG CONTENTS CON'T
(1) Hex Head Screw
1/4-20 x 2-1/8
(1) Locknuts
1/4-20
CONTROL
CABLE(S)
TO
UPPER
HANDLE
GROUP "F"
(1) Locknut
1/4-20
(1) Hex Bolt
1/4-20 x 1-1/2
For models with remote throttle control
For models without remote throttle control
GROUP "G"
STARTER
ROPE GUIDE
TO HANDLE (1) Keps Locknut
1/4-20

9
CAUTION: Do not operate this mower without the discharge guard or an entire ap-
proved grass catcher in place. These guards are for your protection and are required
by the American National Standards Institute and Consumer Products Safety Com-
mission.
CAUTION: Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come in contact with spark plug.
ASSEMBLY
MODELS WITH DECK HANDLE
BRACKETS
• Install lower handle onto handle brackets
by squeezing the bottom ends of handle
towards each other until the handle
will slip onto the mounting pins on the
handle brackets.
• Pull handle back to lock in operating
position.
• Install the two (2) hairpin cotters sup-
plied onto the mounting pins.
ASSEMBLE LOWER HANDLE
(USE HARDWARE GROUP “A”)
MODELS WITH BOLT-ON LOWER
HANDLE
• For ease of lower handle assembly, raise
rear of deck and block securely.
• Position lower handle on deck as shown:
- (20" mowers) cut-off flat forward.
- (22" mowers) arrow down.
• Align holes in handle with holes in deck
as shown and assemble 3/8-16 x 3/4
hex bolts, 7/8" washers and flanged
locknuts. Tighten securely.
• Repeat for opposite side of mower.
ASSEMBLE UPPER HANDLE
(USE HARDWARE GROUP “B”)
MODELS WITH FIXED (NON-FOLDING)
HANDLES
• Position upper handle over lower handle:
- (20" mowers) small hole for mounting
upstop bracket to left hand side.
- (22" mowers) side of handle with four
(4) holes as shown to left hand side.
• Assemble 1/4-20 x 1-1/2 hex bolts and
1/4-20 locknuts. Tighten securely.
(REAR DISCHARGE MOWER SHOWN)
7/8" Washers
Flanged
locknuts
Lower
handle
Cut-off flat forward
(20" Mowers)
Hex
bolts
Arrow down
(22" Mowers)
Handle
bracket
mounting pin
Lower handle
SQUEEZE
TO INSTALL
Hairpin cotter
Upstop bracket
screw #10-24 x 1/2
Upstop
bracket
Four (4) holes
(22" Mowers)
Hex
bolts
Locknuts

10
MODELS WITH FOLDING UPPER
HANDLE
• Position upper handle over lower handle
with small hole for mounting upstop
bracket to left hand side.
• Assemble handle bolts and wing nuts.
Tighten securely.
ASSEMBLE UPSTOP BRACKET
(SEE ILLUSTRATION ABOVE)
• Position upstop bracket over hole inside
the left side of upper handle and install
upstop bracket screw
#10-24 x 1/2. Tighten securely.
Upstop
bracket screw
#10-24 x 1/2
Wing nuts
Handle bolts
Upstop bracket
ASSEMBLE WHEELS
(USE HARDWARE GROUP “C”)
NOTE: Some model mowers do not have
baffles on underside of mower housing.
On models without baffle in front and/or
rear of housing, use the 1-1/4" washers
supplied when you assemble the wheels.
MODELS WITH BOLT-ON WHEELS
Cutting height is determined by assem-
bling wheels in one of four possible posi-
tions on the mower housing. All wheels
must be in the same height position for
even cutting.
• For each wheel, assemble shoulder bolt,
wheel and spacer as shown.
• Assemble 1-1/4" diam. washer (if sup-
plied) and 3/8-16 locknut on inside of
mower housing and tighten securely.
(SIDE DISCHARGE MOWER SHOWN)
MODELS WITH "QUICK ADJUST"
WHEEL HEIGHT ADJUSTERS
Look carefully at the four (4) adjuster
assemblies. Notice that there are two (2)
each of two (2) different types.
Type I is for the Right Rear and Left Front
installation.
Type II is for the Right Front and Left Rear
installation.
TYPE I
TYPE II
Spacer
Wheel
3/8-16
Locknut
1-1/4" diameter Washer
(Rear wheels only)
Mower housing
Shoulder
bolt
ASSEMBLE ADJUSTERS TO MOWER
DECK
• Position appropriate adjuster at each
corner of mower.
• Install each adjuster with adjuster bolt
and tab in deck holes as shown and
secure with 1-1/4" diam. washer (if sup-
plied) and 3/8-16 locknut. Tighten all
adjusters securely.

11
SIDE DISCHARGE MOWERS
REAR DISCHARGE MOWERS
ASSEMBLE WHEELS TO ADJUSTER
AXLE ARMS
• Secure each wheel with flat washer
and retainer spring or flange locknut (if
equipped with threaded axle).
• Assemble adjustment knobs to adjuster
levers by pressing or tapping lightly.
• If your mower is equipped with hubcaps,
install by pressing or tapping lightly until
hubcap snaps securely over flat washer.
TYPE I
Right rear/left front
height adjuster
TYPE II
Right front/left rear height adjuster Tab hole
Tab hole 1-1/4" Washer (If supplied)
Locknuts
TYPE I
Right rear/left front
height adjuster
TYPE II
Right front/left rear height adjuster Tab hole
Tab hole 1-1/4" Washer (If supplied)
Locknuts
Wheel
Flat washer
Retainer
spring
Axle arm
Hubcap (If epuipped)
Flange locknut
(If equipped with
threaded axle arm)
Adjustment
knob
INSTALL DISCHARGE GUARD
(SIDE DISCHARGE MODELS ONLY)
(USE HARDWARE GROUP “D”)
If your mower is a rear discharge mower,
go on to “INSTALL CONTROL BAR”.
MODELS WITH BOLT-ON GUARD
NOTE: If your discharge guard has ribbing
as shown in the illustration below, there
are two (2) spacers which must be placed
between guard and mower housing.
• Place discharge guard on top of lawn
mower discharge opening.
• Install two (2) 1/4-20 short hex bolts
through housing and discharge guard.
• Install two (2) 3/4" washers and two
(2)1/4-20 locknuts. Tighten securely.
BOLT-ON GUARD WITHOUT RIBBING
BOLT-ON GUARD WITH RIBBING
Hex bolts
Washers
Discharge
guard
Locknuts
Hex bolts
Washers
Spacers
Discharge
guard
ribbing
Locknuts

12
Locknuts
Discharge
guard
MODELS WITH SPRING LOADED
DISCHARGE GUARD
• Place discharge guard on top of lawn
mower discharge opening.
• Install two (2) hex self-tapping screws
through housing and into guard mount-
ing bracket or, install two (2) 1/4-20
locknuts (If equipped). Tighten securely.
SCREW MOUNTED TYPE
NUT MOUNTED TYPE
ASSEMBLE REMOTE THROTTLE
CONTROL TO ENGINE
(ON MODELS SO EQUIPPED)
(USE HARDWARE GROUP “E”)
If your mower does not have a remote throttle
control, go on to“ASSEMBLE ENGINE ZONE
CONTROL CABLE TO ENGINE”.
• First, move lever on remote throttle
control to the CHOKE (if equipped) or
FAST/START position.
CHOKE
FAST/START
Determine the manufacturer and brand or
type engine on your lawn mower and follow
the appropriate instructions that follow.
MODELS WITH BRIGGS & STRATTON
CLASSIC OR SPRINT AND TECUMSEH
ENGINES
NOTE: Tecumseh engines have cable
mounting clamp and screw preassembled
on engine.
• At engine carburetor, insert wire “Z”
bend of throttle control into hole of
speed lever (use inner hole on Briggs &
Stratton engine).
• (Briggs & Stratton only) Assemble di-
ecast clamp and #10 x 5/8 screw loosely
to engine.
• Position throttle cable under clamp and
push cable towards speed lever until speed
lever touches boss. Hold cable at this po-
sition and tighten clamp screw securely.
INSTALL CONTROL BAR
(NO HARDWARE REQUIRED)
• Position control bar so flattened section
with hole is on opposite side of upstop
bracket.
• Insert one end of control bar into hole be-
hind upstop bracket. Carefully push in on
opposite end of control bar and insert into
formed hole on inside of upper handle.
Upstop
bracket
Control
bar
Hex head
self-tapping
screws
Discharge
guard

13
MODELS WITH BRIGGS &
STRATTON QUANTUM ENGINES
• Slide throttle lever on engine to CHOKE
position (away from spark plug). Push
gently beyond first stop to lock in detent
(CHOKE position).
• Insert wire “Z” bend of throttle cable into
throttle lever hole from top side.
• Secure throttle cable to engine with
diecast clamp and #10 x 5/8 hex head
screw and tighten securely.
QUANTUM ENGINES -
SPARK PLUG TO FRONT OF MOWER
QUANTUM ENGINES -
SPARK PLUG TO REAR OF MOWER
BRIGGS & STRATTON ENGINE SHOWN
(Clamp and Screw are preassembled on
Tecumseh engines)
BRIGGS & STRATTON CLASSIC AND
SPRINT ENGINES WITH THE SPARK
PLUG TO FRONT OF MOWER
• Attach throttle cable to side of engine
housing with cable clip and #10 x 5/8 hex
washer head screw. Tighten securely.
Diecast
clamp
#10 x 5/8
Hex head screw
Speed lever
Cable clip
Throttle
cable
#10 x 5/8
Hex head screw
Throttle
lever
Diecast clamp
Throttle cable
Hex
Head
Screw
#10 x 5/8
Hex Head Screw #10 x 5/8
Diecast
clamp
Throttle
lever
Throttle cable
ASSEMBLE ENGINE ZONE
CONTROL CABLE TO ENGINE
(NO HARDWARE REQUIRED)
Follow the appropriate instructions below
for the brand or type of engine on your
lawn mower.
MODELS WITH BRIGGS & STRATTON
CLASSIC OR SPRINT ENGINE
Cable attaches under the brake arm cover,
which is opposite the spark plug end of
engine.
• Straighten cable and find the end with
the small plastic fitting.
• Hook the “Z” bend fitting on inner wire of
cable into hole in brake arm of engine.
• Align the tapered end of the plastic fitting
with the hole in mounting bracket and
push in until fitting snaps into place.
• Route cable below crossbar portion of
lower handle and up to upper handle
control bar.
• Hook “Z” bend fitting on inner wire into
hole in control bar (See “ASSEMBLE
CABLES TO UPPER HANDLE” in this
manual).
Hex head screw #10 x 5/8
(rearward spark plug models only)
Engine cable clip
(rearward spark plug
models only)
"Z" Fitting
Small plastic fitting
Brake
arm
Mounting
bracket
Brake
arm
cover

14
MODELS WITH SPARK PLUG TO REAR
OF MOWER
To prevent cable damage, the cable must
be attached to the side of engine, away
from the muffler.
• Above the muffler, locate the hole in en-
gine shroud. Install supplied cable clip
on cable and assemble to side of engine
with supplied hex head screw. Tighten
securely.
MODELS WITH TECUMSEH ENGINE
• Straighten cable and find the end with
the small tapered plastic fitting.
• Hook the “Z” bend fitting on inner wire of
cable into hole as shown.
• Align the tapered end of the plastic fitting
with the hole in the mounting bracket
and push in until fitting snaps into place.
• Route cable under crossbar portion of
lower handle and up to upper handle
control bar.
• Hook “Z” bend fitting on inner wire into
hole in control bar (See “ASSEMBLE
CABLES TO UPPER HANDLE” in this
manual).
MODELS WITH BRIGGS & STRATTON
QUANTUM ENGINES
• Hook the “Z” bend fitting on inner wire
of cable (end with tapered plastic fitting)
into hole in brake lever of engine. Cor-
rect brake lever to use is determined by
position of spark plug on your mower
- forward or rearward.
• Position the tapered plastic fitting into
the mounting bracket on engine. Snap
fitting into place.
• Route cable under crossbar portion of
lower handle and up to upper handle
control bar.
• Hook “Z” bend fitting on inner wire into
hole in control bar (See “ASSEMBLE
CABLES TO UPPER HANDLE”).
ASSEMBLE CABLE(S) TO UPPER
HANDLE
(USE HARDWARE GROUP “F”)
• Assemble cable(s) to opposite side of
upstop bracket.
• Be sure to route cable(s) underneath
crossbar of lower handle.
• Position throttle control (if equipped)
on outside of handle and zone control
square fitting on the inside.
• Secure to handle with the 1/4-20 ma-
chine screw or hex bolt supplied and
locknut as shown. Tighten securely.
• Secure cable(s) to crossbar and lower
handle with cable ties as needed.
Brake lever (rearward spark plug)
Mounting bracket
(forward spark plug)
Mounting bracket
(rearward spark plug)
Brake lever
(forward spark
plug)
TECUMSEH ENGINES
WITH SPARK PLUG FORWARD
TECUMSEH ENGINES
WITH SPARK PLUG REARWARD
Mounting
bracket
Small
plastic
fitting
“Z” Fitting
Mounting
bracket
Small
plastic
fitting
“Z” Fitting

15
ASSEMBLE STARTER ROPE GUIDE
(USE HARDWARE GROUP “G”)
CENTER MOUNT TYPE
• Install threaded end of rope guide
through hole in top of lower handle
crossbar.
• Loosely assemble 1/4-20 keps locknut
on threaded portion of rope guide. Do
not tighten.
• Hold control bar against upper handle
and slowly pull starter rope out and up
over lower handle crossbar and slip into
loop of rope guide.
• Push rope guide down against crossbar
and tighten nut securely.
Throttle control
(If equipped)
1/4-20
Locknut
Cable
ties
1/4-20 Machine
screw
or hex bolt
supplied
Control bar
Lower handle
1/4-20 Keps locknut
Engine starter rope
Rope guide
SIDE MOUNT TYPE
• Put threaded end of rope guide through
hole in side of upper handle above lower
handle crossbar. Secure with 1/4-20
keps locknut.
• Hold control bar against upper handle
and slowly pull starter rope out until rope
will slip into loop of rope guide.
Upper
handle
Engine
starter
rope
Rope guide
1/4-20
Keps locknut
Lower handle
crossbar
Control bar
SPARK PLUG BOOT (IF EQUIPPED)
(NO HARDWARE REQUIRED)
On some model lawn mowers a spark plug
boot is packed loose in the parts bag. If
your model has one, install it on spark plug
wire and then reconnect plug to spark plug.
ASSEMBLE GRASS CATCHER
(REAR DISCHARGE MODELS ONLY)
(NO HARDWARE REQUIRED)
• Put grass catcher frame into grass bag
with rigid part on bottom.
• Slip vinyl bindings over frame. If bind-
ings are too stiff, hold them in warm
water for a few minutes. Allow bag to
dry before using.
Boot
Spark
plug
Spark
plug wire
Catcher frame
Vinyl binding
Frame
opening

16
MODELS WITH ENGINE MOUNTED
SPEED CONTROL
The engine speed is controlled by a lever
located at the carburetor on the engine.
HIGH or FAST position is for starting
engine, normal cutting and better grass
bagging. LOW or SLOW position is for
light cutting, trimming and fuel economy.
MODELS WITH FIXED SPEED ENGINES
Engine speed was set at the factory for
optimum performance. Engine speed is
not adjustable.
BRIGGS & STRATTON CLASSIC or SPRINT
ENGINE MOUNTED SPEED CONTROL
BRIGGS & STRATTON QUANTUM
ENGINE MOUNTED SPEED CONTROL
Remote
throttle
control
FAST SLOW
CHOKE
(START)
TECUMSEH
ENGINE MOUNTED SPEED CONTROL
OPERATION
The operation of any lawn
mower can result in foreign
objects thrown into the
eyes, which can result in
severe eye damage. Always
wear safety glasses or eye shields while
operating your lawn mower or performing
any adjustments or repairs. We recom-
mend standard safety glasses or a wide
vision safety mask worn over spectacles.
HOW TO USE YOUR LAWN MOWER
ENGINE SPEED CONTROL
MODELS WITH REMOTE THROTTLE
Engine speed is controlled by the throttle
control located on the upper handle.
• Move lever forward to FAST engine
speed for starting and better bagging.
• Move lever backward for SLOW engine
speed.
• Some models have engines equipped
with a choke feature. Move the lever all
the way forward to the CHOKE position
when starting a cold engine.
Primer (if equipped)
Engine speed
control lever
Engine speed control lever
Primer (if
equipped)
Spark
plug
Engine
speed
control lever
Primer (if equipped)

17
CAUTION: Under normal usage, the
catcher material is subject to deterioration
and wear and should, therefore, be
checked frequently for replacement. Any
replacement catcher should be checked
to ensure compliance with original
manufacturer's specifi cations.
CAUTION: Do not run lawn mower
without the discharge guard (rear door),
approved grass catcher or clipping
deflector in place. Never attempt to
operate mower with the discharge guard
(rear door) removed or propped open.
OPERATOR PRESENCE ENGINE
CONTROL BAR
Your lawn mower is equipped with an op-
erator presence engine control bar which
requires the operator to be positioned
behind the lawn mower handle in order to
start and operate the lawn mower.
CAUTION: Federal regulations require
an engine control to be installed on this
lawn mower in order to minimize the
risk of blade contact injury. Do not under
any circumstances attempt to defeat the
function of the operator control. The blade
turns when the engine is running.
GRASS CATCHER (REAR
DISCHARGE MODELS ONLY)
TO ATTACH GRASS CATCHER
• Open rear door. Place frame onto
formed tabs on hinge bracket.
• Release rear door and allow to rest on
catcher.
TO REMOVE GRASS CATCHER
• Simply open rear door and lift grass
catcher up and away from mower.
TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT
Adjust cutting height to suit your require-
ments. Medium position is best for most
lawns. Raise wheels for low cut and lower
wheels for high cut.
MODELS WITH MANUAL ADJUST
BOLT-ON WHEELS
• Remove wheel, bolt, and hardware and
reassemble in desired adjustment hole.
• Reinstall wheel components in the same
order as they were before removal.
Tighten securely.
• Make sure all wheels are at the same
height.
MODELS WITH "QUICK ADJUST" WHEEL
HEIGHT ADJUSTERS
NOTE: For shipping purposes, the rear
wheels on your lawn mower may not be
adjusted to the same position as the front
wheels. Before operating mower, adjust all
wheels to the same cutting height.
• Raise wheels for low cut and lower
wheels for high cut.
• Adjust cutting height to suit your require-
ments. Medium position is best for most
lawns.
• To change cutting height, squeeze ad-
juster lever toward wheel. Move wheel
up or down to suit your requirements.
Be sure all wheels are in the same set-
ting.
NOTE: Adjuster is properly positioned
when plate tab inserts into hole in lever.
Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)
allow lever to be positioned between the
plate tabs.
Hinge bracket
formed tabs
Catcher frame
Rear door
Bolt
Flat washer
Wheel
3/8-16
Locknut
Spacer
LOWER WHEELS
FOR HIGH CUT
RAISE WHEELS FOR LOW CUT
Plate tab
Lever

18
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
Read engine manual packed with your unit.
FILL ENGINE WITH OIL
Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in
the engine.
• Be sure mower is level and area around
oil fill is clean.
• Remove engine oil filler plug (oil fill cap/
dipstick on models so equipped).
• Slowly add oil. For type and grade of
oil to use, see “ENGINE” in the Mainte-
nance section of this manual.
• Fill to the top of slot in filler hole (to
“FULL” line on dipstick on models so
equipped). Do not overfill.
• Replace plug (oil fill cap/dipstick on
models so equipped) and tighten.
• Check oil level before each use. Add oil
as needed.
• To change oil, see “TO CHANGE EN-
GINE OIL” in the Maintenance section of
this manual.
FILL GASOLINE TANK
• Fill gasoline tank with fresh, clean, un-
leaded gasoline. DO NOT USE PRE-
MIUM GASOLINE. BE CAREFUL NOT
TO OVERFILL TANK.
WARNING: Experience indicates that
alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or
using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas
can damage the fuel system of an engine
while in storage. To avoid engine problems,
the fuel system should be emptied before
storage of 30 days or longer. Drain the fuel
tank, start the engine and let it run until fuel
lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh
fuel next season. See Storage Instructions
for additional information. Never use engine
or carburetor cleaner products in fuel tank or
permanent damage may occur.
TO START ENGINE
CAUTION: The mower blade rotates
whenever the engine is running.
• Move engine speed control to FAST
position or to CHOKE/START position
on models equipped with choke feature.
• If your mower has a primer, to start a
cold engine, push primer the number of
times as instructed in the engine manual
packed with your mower. Use a firm
push. This step is not usually necessary
when starting an engine which has
already run for a few minutes.
MOWING TIPS
• For most cutting conditions and better
bagging performance, the engine speed
should be set in the FAST position.
• Under certain conditions, such as when
mowing very tall grass, raise the mower
height on the first cut to reduce pushing
effort, to avoid overheating the engine, and
to avoid leaving clumps of grass clippings.
Make the second cut to the desired height.
• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the
width of cut.
• For side discharge lawn mowers, cut in a
counterclockwise direction, starting at the
outside of the area to be cut, in order to
spread grass clippings more evenly and
to put less load on the engine. To keep
clippings off of walkways, flower beds, etc.,
make the first cuts in a clockwise direction.
• When using a rear discharge lawn
mower in moist, heavy grass, clumps
of cut grass may not enter the grass
catcher. Reduce ground speed (pushing
speed) and/or run the lawn mower over
the area a second time.
• If a trail of grass clipping is left on the right
side of a rear discharge lawn mower, mow
in a clockwise direction with a small overlap
to collect the clippings on the next pass.
• Pores in cloth grass catchers can be-
come filled with dirt and dust with use
and the catcher will collect less grass.
To prevent this, regularly hose catcher
off with water and let dry before use.
• Hold operator presence control bar
down against handle.
• Pull starter handle quickly. Do not allow
starter rope to snap back.
• For engines equipped with choke, slowly
move engine speed control lever to
FAST position after engine starts.
• To STOP engine, release operator pres-
ence engine control bar.
NOTE: For engines with a primer, it may be
necessary to repeat priming steps in cooler
weather. In warmer weather, overpriming
may cause flooding and engine will not start.
If you do flood engine, wait a few minutes
before attempting to start and DO NOT
repeat priming steps.
Recoil starter
handle (side
mount type)
Recoil
starter
handle
(center
mount
type)
Operator presence
control bar

19
MAINTENANCE
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this lawn mower does not
cover items that have been subjected to op-
erator abuse or negligence. To receive full
value from the warranty, operator must main-
tain mower as instructed in this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodically to properly maintain your unit.
All adjustments in the Service and Adjust-
ments section of this manual should be
checked at least once each season.
• Once a year, replace the spark plug,
clean or replace air filter element, and
check blade for wear. A new spark plug
and clean/new air filter element assures
proper air-fuel mixture and helps your
engine run better and last longer.
• Follow the Maintenance Schedule in this
manual.
BEFORE EACH USE
• Check engine oil level.
• Check for loose fasteners.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well lubricated.
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will
attract dust and dirt that will shorten the life
LUBRICATION CHART
of the self-lubricating bearings. If you feel
they must be lubricated, use only a dry,
powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly.
➀Spray lubricant
➁See “ENGINE” in Maintenance section.
➀ Wheel
adjuster (on
each wheel)
➁Engine oil
➀ Rear dis-
charge mower
rear door
hinge rod
➀ Handle bracket mounting pins
➀ Side dis-
charge mower
guard hinge rod

20
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when perform-
ing any maintenance.
TIRES
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemicals which can harm rubber.
• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
objects and other hazards that may
cause tire damage.
BLADE CARE
For best results, mower blade must be kept
sharp. Replace bent or damaged blades.
TO REPLACE BLADE
• Turn lawn mower on it’s side. See engine
manual for proper direction of turning
over the engine.
• Use a wood block between blade and
mower housing to prevent blade from
turning when removing blade bolt.
• Protect your hands with gloves and/or
wrap blade with heavy cloth.
• Remove blade bolt, lock washer and flat
washer.
• Remove blade and blade adapter.
• Inspect the key inside blade adapter.
Replace adapter if damaged.
IMPORTANT: Blade bolt is grade 8 heat
treated.
• Install new or sharpened blade with
trailing edge up toward the engine.
• Position blade on blade adapter. Align
the two (2) holes in blade with raised
lugs of adapter.
• Reassemble blade bolt, lock washer
and flat washer into blade adapter and
crankshaft in exact order as shown.
• Position block of wood between blade
and mower housing.
• Tighten blade bolt securely. Recom-
mended tightening torque is 35-40 ft. lbs.
NOTE: We do not recommend sharpening
the blade - but if you do, be sure the blade
is balanced.
TO SHARPEN BLADE
Care should be taken to keep the blade
balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause
excessive vibration and eventual damage
to lawn mower and engine.
• The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt
to sharpen while on the mower.
• To check blade balance, drive a nail into
a beam or wall. Leave about one inch of
the straight nail exposed. Place center
hole of blade over the head of the nail. If
blade is balanced, it should remain in a
horizontal position. If either end of the
blade moves downward, sharpen the
heavy end until the blade is balanced.
GRASS CATCHER (IF SO EQUIPPED)
Grass catcher may be hosed with water
but must be dry when used.
CAUTION: Under normal usage, the
catcher material is subject to deterioration
and wear and should therefore be checked
to ensure compliance with original
manufacturer specifi cations.
ENGINE
Read the maintenance section of your
engine manual.
LUBRICATION
Change the oil after the first two hours of
operation and every 25 hours thereafter or
at least once a year if the lawn mower is
not used for 25 hours in one year. Refer to
engine manual.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
(SEE ENGINE MANUAL)
• Be sure mower is on a level surface.
• Oil will drain more freely when warm.
• Catch oil in a suitable container.
• For engines without dipstick, remove
bottom oil drain plug.
• For engines with oil fill cap/dipstick,
remove bottom drain plug or remove en-
gine oil cap and turn mower on its side.
• After oil has drained completely, replace
oil drain plug and tighten securely.
• Refill engine with oil. Pour slowly. Do
not overfill.
• Fill to top of slot inside of filler hole or
to “FULL” line on dipstick on models so
equipped. Keep oil at proper level.
Blade adapter
Blade
bolt
Crankshaft
keyway
Hardened
washer
Lockwasher
Blade adapter
Key
Blade
Trailing edge
Crank
shaft