Snapper SPV2270HW User manual

Operator's Manual
22" Self-Propelled
WalkBehindMower
fModelNo. Description
7800709
7800755 SPV2270HW NSPV2270HW
7104299
Rev.-

Thank You for purchasing this quality-built Snapper product. We're pleased that you placed your confi-
dence in the Snapper brand. When operated and maintained according to the instructions in this manual,
your Snapper product will provide many years of dependable service.
This manual contains safety information to make you aware of the hazards and risks associated with the
machine and how to avoid them. This machine is designed and intended only for finish cutting of
established lawns and is not intended for any other purpose. It is important that you read and understand
these instructions thoroughly before attempting to start or operate this equipment. Save these original
instructions for future reference.
Completethe following information on your Snapperpurchase.
Date of Purchase
Retailer
Retailer's Phone Number
Equipment
Model Number
SerialNumber
Engine
Model .Type. Code
Snapper is a trademark of
Briggs & Stratton PowerProducts Group, LLC
Milwaukee, WI, USA.
Copyright © 2010, Briggs & Stratton Corporation
Milwaukee, WI, USA. All Rights Reserved.

Table of Contents
OperatorSafety ................................................ 4
Assembly .................................................... 6
Unpacking ......................................................... 6
Handle ............................................................ 6
HandleHeight ...................................................... 7
Grass Bag ......................................................... 8
Side DischargeDeflector ............................................. 10
Mulching Tips ..................................................... 11
How to Preparethe Engine ........................................... 11
FinalPreparation ................................................... 11
Operation ................................................... 12
Engine Stop Lever .................................................. 12
WheelDrive System ................................................ 12
Stopping the Engine ................................................ 12
Starting the Engine ................................................. 13
Rules for Safeand EffectiveOperation .................................. 13
Maintenance ................................................. 14
MaintenanceChart ................................................. 14
Engine Maintenance ................................................ 15
EngineTipping .................................................... 15
Lubrication ....................................................... 15
Adjusting the Height of Cut ........................................... 15
Adjusting the Drive Cable ............................................ 16
BladeService ..................................................... 17
Removingthe Blade ............................................. 17
Sharpeningthe Blade ............................................ 17
Checkingthe Levelof Cut ......................................... 17
Cleaningthe Mower Housing ......................................... 18
Preparing the Mower for Storage ...................................... 20
Troubleshooting............................................... 21
Warranty .................................................... 22
SlopeGuide ................................................. 23
WARNING
Batteryposts, terminals and relatedaccessoriescontain
lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer and birth defects or other
reproductiveharm. Wash handsafter handling.
WARNING
Engineexhaust, some of its constituents, and certain
vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to
the State of California to causecancer or other reproductive
harm.

OperatorSafety
WARNING:This powerful cutting machine is capableof amputating handsand feet and canthrow objects
that can cause injury and damage! Failureto comply with the following SAFETYinstructions could result in
serious injury or deathto the operator or other persons.The owner of the machinemust understand these
instructions and must allow only persons who understandthese instructions to operate machine.Each
personoperating the machine must be of sound mind and body and must not be under the influence of any
substance,which might impair vision, dexterity or judgment. If you haveany questions pertaining to your
machinewhich your dealer cannot answer to your satisfaction, contact Customer Service (1-800-317-7833
or www.snapper.com).
Protection for Children
Tragic accidents canoccur if the operator is not alert to the
presenceof children. Children are often attracted to the
machine andthe mowing activity. Neverassumethat
children will remain whereyou last saw them.
1. KEEPchildren out of the mowing area and under the
watchful careof a responsible adult other than the operator.
2. DONOTallow children in yard when machine is operated
andturn machine OFFif anyoneenters the area.
3. DONOTallow pre-teenagechildren to operate machine.
4. ALLOW only responsible adults & teenagerswith mature
judgment under close adult supervision to operate machine.
5. DONOTpull mower backwards unless absolutely
necessary.LOOKand SEEbehind and down for children,
pets and hazards beforeand while backing.
6. USEEXTRACAREwhen approaching blind corners,
shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
SlopeOperation
1. Slopesare a major factor relatedto slip and fall acci-
dents,which can result in severe injury. All slopes require
extra caution. If you feel uneasyon aslope, DONOTmow
it.
2. Mow across slopes, neverup-and-down. Exercise
extremeCAUTIONwhen changing directions on slopes. DO
NOTmow steep slopes or other areaswhere stability or
traction is in doubt. Referto the Slope Guideat the end of
this manual.
3. Useextra carewith grass catchers or other attachments;
these affect the handling and the stability of the machine.
Preparation
1. Read,understand, and follow instructions and warnings
in this manualand on the mower, engine and attachments.
Knowthe controls and the proper useof the mower before
starting.
2. Only mature, responsible persons shall operatethe
machine and only after proper instruction.
3. Data indicatesthat operators age 60 and above,are
involved in a large percentageof mower-related injuries.
Theseoperators should evaluatetheir ability to operatethe
mower safely enough to protect themselvesand others
from serious injury.
Preparation
(ContinuedFromPreviousColumn)
4. Handlefuel with extra care. Fuelsareflammable and
vapors are explosive. Useonly an approvedfuel container.
DONOTremovefuel capor addfuel with engine running.
Add fuel outdoors only with engine stopped and cool. Clean
spilled fuel and oil from machine. DONOTsmoke.
5. Checkthe areato be mowed and removeall objects such
as toys, wire, rocks, limbs and other objects that could
cause injury if thrown by bladeor interfere with mowing.
Also notethe location of holes, stumps, and other possible
hazards.
6. Keeppeople and pets out of the mowing area.
Immediately,STOPBlade,Stop engine and Stop mower if
anyone enters the area.
7. Checkshields, deflectors, switches, blade controls and
other safety devicesfrequently for proper operation and
location.
8. Make sureall safety decals are clearly legible. Replaceif
damaged.
9. Protectyourself when mowing and wear safety glasses, a
dust mask, long pants, and substantial footwear. DONOT
mow barefooted or with sandals.
10. Know how to STOPbladeand engine quickly in
preparationfor emergencies.
11. Use extra carewhen loading or unloading the machine
into a trailer or truck.
12. Checkgrass catchercomponents frequently for signs of
wear or deterioration and replaceas neededto prevent
injury from thrown objects going through weak or torn
spots.
Safe Handlingof Gasoline
Toavoid personal injury or property damage, useextreme
care in handling gasoline. Gasolineis extremely flammable
and the vapors are explosive.
1. Extinguishall cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources
of ignition.
2. Use only an approvedfuel container.
3. DONOTremovefuel cap or add fuel with the engine
running. Allow the engineto cool before refueling.
4. DONOTrefuelthe machine indoors.
5. DONOTstore the machine or fuel container inside where
there is an open flame, spark or pilot light such as on a
water heateror other appliances.
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OperatorSafety
Safe Handling of Gasoline
(ContinuedFromPreviousPage)
6. DONOTfill fuel containers inside a vehicle or on a truck
or trailer bed with aplastic liner. Always placethe contain-
erson the ground away from the vehicle beforefilling.
7. Removegas-poweredequipment from the vehicle or
trailer and refuelit onthe ground. If this is not possible,
then refuelequipment using a portablecontainer, rather
than a gasolinedispenser nozzle.
8. DONOTstart gas poweredequipment in enclosedvehi-
cles or trailers.
9. Keepthe nozzlein contact with the rim of the fuel tank or
container opening at all times until fueling is complete. DO
NOTusea nozzle lock-open device
10. If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing
immediately.
11. DONOToverfill a fuel tank. Replacefuel cap and tighten
securely.
Operation
1. DONOTput handsor feet near or under rotating parts.
Keepclearof discharge areawhile engine is running.
2. STOPenginewhen crossing gravel drives, walks, or
roads, and under anyconditions where thrown objects
might be a hazard.
3. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
4. DONOToperatemower while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
5.After striking a foreign object or if mower vibrates
abnormally,STOPthe engine,disconnect and secure spark
plug wire. Inspect the mower for anydamageand repair the
damagebeforestarting.
6. DONOTmow near drop offs, ditches or embankments.
Operatorcould lose footing or balance.
7. STAYALERTfor holes and other hidden hazards.Tall
grass can hide obstacles. Keepawayfrom ditches,
washouts, culverts, fencesand protruding objects.
8. DONOTmow on wet grass. Always be sure of your
footing. Keepa firm hold on the handleand walk, neverrun.
Slipping could cause injury.
9.ALWAYSstay behind handlewhen engine (motor) is
running.
10. DONOTleavethe machinewith the engine running.
STOPBLADEand STOPENGINEbeforeleavingthe opera-
tors position for any reason.
11. Beforecleaning, repairing or inspecting make certain
engine,blade and all moving parts haveSTOPPED.
Disconnectand secure spark plug wire awayfrom plug to
prevent accidentalstarting.
12. STOPengineand wait until the bladecomes to com-
pleteSTOPbefore removing grass bag and/or clearing
grass.
Operation
(ContinuedFromPreviousColumn)
13. DONOToperatemower without the entire grasscatch-
er, rear guard or other safety devicesin placeand working.
DONOTpoint discharge at people, passing cars, windows
or doors.
14. DONOTdischarge material against a wall or obstruc-
tion. Material may ricochet back towards the operator.
15. Slow down beforeturning.
16. Watchout for traffic when near or crossing roadways.
17. DONOToperateengine in enclosedareas. Engine
exhaust gasescontain carbon monoxide, a deadly poison.
18. Onlyuse accessoriesapprovedby the manufacturer.
See manufacturer's instructions for proper operation and
installation of accessories.
MaintenanceandStorage
1. DONOTstore mower or fuel container inside where
fumes may reachan open flame, spark or pilot light such as
in awater heater,furnace, clothes dryer or other gasappli-
ance. Allow engine to cool before storing machine in an
enclosure. Store fuel container out of reachof children in a
well ventilated, unoccupied building.
2. Keepmower andengine free of grass, leavesor excess
greaseto reducefire hazardand engine overheating.
3. Whendraining fuel tank, drain fuel into an approved
container outdoors and away from open flame.
4. Keepall bolts, especially bladebolts, nuts and screws
properly tight. Checkthat all cotter pins are in proper
position.
5. Alwaysprovide adequateventilation when running
engine. Engineexhaust gasescontain carbon monoxide, a
deadly poison.
6. Serviceengine and makeadjustments only when engine
is stopped. Removespark plug wire from spark plug and
secure wire awayfrom spark plug to prevent accidental
starting.
7. DONOTchangeengine governor speedsettings or
overspeed engine.
8. Checkgrass bag assembly frequently for wear or
deterioration to avoidthrown objects and exposure to
moving parts. Replacewith new bag if loose seamsor tears
are evident. Replaceslider or bag adapterif brokenor
cracked.
9. Mower bladesaresharp and can cut. Wrap the bladesor
wear heavy leathergloves and useCAUTIONwhen handling
them.
10. DONOTtest for spark by grounding spark plug next to
spark plug hole; spark plug could ignite gas exiting engine.
11. Havemachine serviced by an authorized dealerat least
once a year and havethe dealer install anynew safety
devices.
12. Use only factory authorized replacementparts or like
parts when making repairs.

Assembly
WARNING:Beforedoinganyassemblyor
maintenancetothe mower,removethe wire
from the sparkplug.
NOTE.In this instruction book, left and right describe the
location of a part with the operator standing behind the
handle.
Unpacking
The mower was fully assembledatthe factory.When the
mower was put in the carton, the handlewas put in the
storage position. Toput the handle in the operating position,
follow the steps below.
Handle
1. Removethe mower from the carton.
2. Removeall packing material from the mower and the
handle.
3. Removethe wingnuts (A, Figure 1), washers (not
shown), and bolts (B) from the right and left handle
brackets (C).
NOTE.Do not remove thelower set of handlehardware (D).
4. Raisethe lower handle,aligning it with one of thethree
sets of holes in the handle brackets (C). Reinstallthe
bolts, washers and wingnuts.
5. Put the upper handle(A, Figure 2) in the operating
(upright) position. Tighten the wingnuts (B).
NOTE.Theheight of the handle canbe set for operator
comfort. See "HandleHeight".
CAUTION:Becareful whenyou fold or raisethe handle.Do
not damagethe cables.A cablethat is bentwill not work
correctly. Beforeyou usethe unit, replacea bent or damaged
cable.
,Hold the engine stop lever againstthe handle.(Refer to
section entitled 'EngineStop Lever'.) Slowly pull the
recoil-start grip (A, Figure3). Toattach the recoil-start
grip to the rope guide (B), twist the rope through the
rope guide mounted on the right sideof the handle.
Figure 1: Unfolding the lower handle
Figure2: Unfolding the upper handle
Figure3: Attaching the recoil-start grip
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Assembly
Adjusting the Handle Height
1. Removethe wingnuts (A, Figure4), washers (not
shown), and bolts (B) from the right and left handle
brackets (C).
Note. Donot remove the lower set of handle hardware(D).
Figure4: Removing the handleadjustment hardware
2. Adjust the handleto a higher or lower height adjustment
hole (A, Figure 5).
3. Reinstallthe bolts, washers and wingnuts removed in
Step 1.
Figure5: Height adjustment holes
(Components removed for clarity)

Assembly
Assemblingthe GrassBag
Note: On some models, the side mounted discharge deflector
is temporarily attached (for shipping purposes) to the rear of
the mower. Beforeassembly of thegrass bag, remove the
side mounted discharge deflector.
1. Slide the frame assembly (A, Figure 6) into the grass
bag (B). Make surethe handle(C) is on the outside of
the grass bag.
Figure6: Installing the frame assembly
2. First, attachthe clips (A, Figure 7) to the sideof the
frame assembly. Next,attach the clips to the top and
bottom of the frame assembly.
Figure7. Installing the bag clips
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Figure8: Removing the mulching plug
Assembly
Mounting the Grass Bag
1. Tomount the grass bag on the mower, raisethe rear
door (A, Figure 8). Removethe mulching plug.
Important: Themulching plug should be removed only when
bagging is desired, and should be replacedas soon asbag-
ging operations are completed.
.Holding the grass bagby the handle (A, Figure 9),
mount the hooks (B) on either end of the grass bag
frame assembly onto the reardoor pivot rod (C). Lower
the grass bag againstthe rear of the mower. Lowerthe
rear door.
Important: Makesure both grass bag hooks are mounted on
the pivot rod.
WARNING:Checkthe conditionofthegrass
bagfor wear or deterioration.If wornor
damaged,replacethe parts onlywith
approvedfactoryreplacementparts.
Emptying the Grass Bag
WARNING:Beforeyou removethe grassbag,
stopthe engine. Beforeyou removeanygrass
from the mower housing,disconnectthewire
from the sparkplug.
1. Raisethe rear door to a vertical position.
2. Hold the handle of the grass bag and lift the frame
assembly.Continueto lift the frame assembly until the
hooks are no longer mounted on the pivot rod. Remove
the grass bag.
3. Empty the grass from the grass bag.
4. Tomount the grass bag on the mower,see "Mounting
The GrassBag".
Figure9: Mounting thegrass bag

Assembly
Attachingthe SideMountedDischargeDeflector
WARNING:To prevent the enginefrom
starting,disconnectthe wire from the
sparkplug.
For shipping purposes, the side deflector was not installed.
Locate the side deflector and install as follows.
1. Raisethe mulcher cover (A, Figure 18).
2. Attach the sidedeflector (B). Make sure the locking tabs
(C) go through the slots in the side deflector.
3. Lower the mulcher cover (A, Figure 11).
4. Attach thewire to the spark plug. Figure 10:Installing the side discharge deflector
Figure 11:Releasingthe mulcher cover
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Assembly
Mulching Tips
Mulching finely cuts the grass so that the grass can be easily
recycled. Becausethe nutrients are returnedto the soil, the
lawn will need less fertilizer. Tocorrectly mulch the lawn,
follow the tips below.
• Thegrass must bedry. If the grass is wet, it will be
difficult to cut and cause heavyclumps of grass.
• Thegrass must not be too tall. The maximum height to
effectively cut is 4 1/2 inches.Set the height adjusters
so that only the top third of the grass is cut.
• If the grass is more than 4 1/2 inches high, two
mowings will be necessary.Forthe first mowing, set the
height adjusters in the highest position. Then, lower the
height adjusters for the second mowing.
• Keepa sharp edge on the blade.A bladethat is not
sharp will causethe ends of the grass to become brown.
• Cleanthe undersideof the mower housing. Grassand
other debris cankeepthe mower from working
correctly.
If the quality of cut is marginal, try the following:
• Set the height adjusters at a higher cutting height.
• Cutthe grass more frequently.
• Operatethe mower at a slower ground speed.
• Overlapthe cutting swaths instead of cutting a full
swath with each pass.
• Mow across the marginal areasa second time.
Preparing the Engine
ENGINEDOESNOTCONTAINOILORGASOLINE
Using the bottle of oil supplied in the carton, fill the engine
with the proper amount of oil. Seethe engine manufacturer's
instructions for the type of gasoline and oil to use. Before
you usethe unit, readthe information on safety,operation,
maintenance,and storage.
WARNING:Followthe enginemanufacturer's
instructionsfor thetype ofgasolineand oilto
use. Alwaysusea safetygasolinecontainer.
Donot smokewhen addinggasolinetothe
engine.When insidean enclosure,do not
fill with gasoline. Beforeyou add gasoline,
stopthe engine. Letthe enginecoolfor
severalminutes.
Note: Theoperation of a new engine will sometimes result in
a slight amount of smoke. Thissmoke is caused by paint or
oil on or around the muffler. This is normal and only
expectedduring initial operation.
IMPORTANT:This unit is equipped with an internal
combustion engine and must not be usedon or nearany
unimproved forest-covered, brush-coveredor grass-covered
and unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a
spark arrester meeting applicable localor state laws (if any).
If a spark arrester is used, it must be maintained in effective
working order by the operator.
Inthe Stateof California the aboveis required by law
(Section 4442 of the California Public ResourcesCode).
Otherstates may havesimilar laws. Federallaws apply on
federal lands. Seean Authorized Service Centerfor a spark
arrester for the muffler.
Note:Actual sustained enginepower will likely be lower due
to operating limitations and environmental factors.
Final Preparation
Beforeyou usethe mower, checkthe assembly of the
wheels,the handle,and the controls. Makesure all the
fasteners are tight. Make surethe throttle control (if
equipped) and the engine stop leverwork correctly.
If the mower is equippedwith height adjusters, makesure
the height adjusters function properly. Beforestarting the
engine, makesure eachheight adjuster is set atthe desired
height. See"Adjusting TheHeight Of Cut" in the Maintenance
sections.
11

Operation
EngineStopLever
Releasethe engine stop lever (A, Figure12) and the engine
and the blade will automatically stop. To run the engine, hold
the engine stop lever in the Operatingposition (B).
Beforeyou start the engine,operatethe engine stop lever
severaltimes. Makesure the cable moveseasily.
4_ WARNING:Forsafe operation,the drive
systemmustimmediately disengagewhenthe
drivelever is released. If the drivesystem
doesnotdisengagecorrectly,do notoperate
the mower until thedrive systemis adjusted
or repairedbyan authorizedservice center.
Figure 12:Operatingthe engine stop lever
Wheel DriveSystem
The mower has a wheeldrive system. Operatethe drive
system asfollows.
1. Hold the engine stop lever (A, Figure 12) in the
OperatingPosition (B).
2. Slowly pull the drive lever(A, Figure 13) back. The
drive system is now engaged. To increaseground
speed, slowly pull the drive leverfarther back. To
decreaseground speed,slowly releasethe drive lever.
3. Todisengagethe drive system and stop the engine,
completely releasethe engine stop lever.
4. Todisengageonly the drive system, releasethe drive
lever.The drive system will disengagebut the engine
will continue to run.
Note: Whenthe drivesystem is disengagedon a new unit, it
is possible for the wheelsto rotate if lifted off the ground.
This is normal and will stop after one or two hours of opera-
tion.
Figure 13: Operatingthe wheeldrive system
Stoppingthe Engine
Tostop the engine, releasethe enginestop lever.Disconnect
the wire from the spark plug to prevent the engine from
starting.
Beforeyou start the engine,check the engine stop cable.
Make sure the engine stop cableis assembledcorrectly.
Beforeyou operatethe unit, replacea bent or damaged
engine stop cable.
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Operation
Startingthe Engine
WARNING:The bladewill rotate
when the engineruns.
IMPORTANT:Beforeyou start the engine,operatethe engine
stop lever severaltimes. Make sure the enginestop cable
moves freely.
Note: Theengine design doesnot include a throttle control
or an enginespeedadjustment. Theengine is set at thebest
speed for cutting grass, bagging grass, and for extended
engine life.
Note: Models equipped with ReadyStart _enginesdo not
feature a primer button. Seethe engine manufacturer's
instructions for further information.
.
2. Checkthe oil.
Fill the fuel tank with regular unleadedgasoline. Make
sure the gasoline is clean. Leadedgasolinewill increase
deposits and shorten the life of the valves.
Note: Do not usegasohol or methanol Donot usepremium
unleadedgasoline.
WARNING:Alwaysusea safetygasoline
container.Do notsmokewhenaddinggasoline
to thefuel tank. When insidean enclosure,do
notadd gasoline. Beforeyou addgasoline,
stopthe engine and letthe engine coolfor
severalminutes.
3. Make sure the spark plug wire is connectedto the spark
plug.
4. Make sure the drive lever is in the disengagedposition.
WARNING:To prevent an accident, make sure
the drive lever is in the DISENGAGEDposition.
Whenthe drive lever is in the ENGAGED
position,donot starttheengine.
5. Stand behind the mower. Useone handto hold the
engine stop lever in the operating position (A, Figure
14).
6. Start the mower: Pull the rope start handle (B) to
crank the engine.
7. After the engine starts, allow a brief warm-up until the
engine runs smooth before beginning mower operation.
8. If the engine does not start in 5 or 6 tries, seethe
"Troubleshooting" Instructions.
Figure 14:Starting the engine
Rules for Safe and Effective Operation
Referto the 'OperatorSafety'section of this manualfor
important rulesconcerning safe and effective mower
operation.
13

Maintenance
MaintenanceChart
WARNING:Beforeyou make an inspection,
adjustment(exceptcarburetor),or repair, stop
the engine and disconnectthewire fromthe
sparkplug.
!!!!
Every8 Hoursor Daily
Checkengine stop lever
Cleandebris off mower
Checkmower for loosehardware
Cleanbattery and cables (if equipped)
Lubricate mower
Checkmower belt
Checkmower blade **
Checkmower blade stopping time
* Whichevercomes first.
**Check blademore often in regionswith sandy soils or
high dust conditions.
First5 Hours
Changeengineoil
Checkengine oil level
Cleanengine air filter and pre-cleaner(if equipped) **
Changeengineoil
Replaceoil filter (if equipped)
Replaceair filter
Replacepre-cleaner(if equipped)
Inspect muffler and spark arrester (if equipped)
Replacespark plug
Replacefuel filter (if equipped)
Cleanengine air cooling system
* Whichevercomes first.
**Clean more often in dusty conditions or when airborne
debris is present.
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Maintenance
EngineMaintenance
Use thefollowing maintenancesection to keepyour unit in
good operating condition. All the maintenanceinformation
for the engine is in the engine manual. Beforeyou start the
engine, readthis book.
WARNING:Beforeyou make an inspection,
adjustment(exceptcarburetor),or repair, stop
the engine and disconnectthewire fromthe
sparkplug.
Engine Tipping
Whenyou servicethe engine, inspectthe blade,or cleanthe
underside of the mower housing; make sure to alwaystip the
engine with the spark plug up (Figure 15). Transporting or
tipping the enginewith the spark plug down will cause:
• Hardstarting.
• Enginesmoking.
• Spark plug fouling.
• Oil or gas saturation of the air filter.
Figure 15:No forward engine tipping
Lubrication
1. For maximum performance, lubricate thewheels and all
pivot points with engine oil every 25 hours.
2. Tolubricate the engine, referto the engine manual.
Note: Do not lubricate the enginestop cable.Lubricants will
damagethe cableand prevent the cablefrom moving freely.
Replacethe cableif bent or damaged.
Adjusting the Height of Cut
_b ARNING:The blade will rotate whenthe
engineruns. Beforeyou changetheheight of
cut, stoptheengine and disconnectthewire
from the sparkplug.
Tochangethe height of cut, move the position of the
adjuster arm at eachwheel (A, Figure 16). Make sure each
adjuster arm is in the same position so that the mower will
cut level.
1. Disengagethe adjuster arm.
2. Move the adjuster arm to anotherposition.
Figure 16:Adjusting the height of cut
15

Maintenance
Adjustingthe DriveCable
WARNING:Beforeyou adjustthe drive cable,
release theengine stoplever and wait for the
engineto stop.
If the drive system doesnot engageand disengagecorrectly,
checkthe handlefor correct assembly.Make surethat all
parts are in good condition, not broken or bent, and that all
fasteners are tight.
Worn parts and cablestretch will changethe performanceof
the drive system. Whenyou mow in high or thick grass or
on hills, the drive system can slip. If the drive system is
slipping, adjust asfollows or take the mower to an
authorized servicecenter.
IMPORTANT:Beforeyou start the engine,operatethe engine
stop lever severaltimes. Make sure the enginestop cable
moves freely.
Note: Theengine design doesnot include a throttle control
or an enginespeedadjustment. Theengine is set at the best
speed for cutting grass, bagging grass, and for extended
enginelife.
1. If the drive system is slipping, loosenthe jam nut (B,
Figure17) on the adjustment turnbuckle (A), and rotate
the ferrule (C) one-half turn in the direction shown. Test
the drive system and check for slippage.
2. If the drive system still slips, adjust again.Again, test
the drive system.
3. Repeatthe adjustment and test until the drive system
does not slip.
4. Beforeyou begin to mow, make surethe drive system
will correctly disengageandthat the mower will stop. If
the drive system will not disengage,take the mower to
an authorized service center beforeyou operatethe
mower.
Figure 17.Adjusting the drive cable
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Maintenance
BladeService
WARNING:Beforeyou inspectthe bladeor the
blade adapter, disconnectthewire tothe
sparkplug. If theblade hits anobject, stopthe
engine. Disconnectthewire to thesparkplug.
Checkthe unitfor damage.
Frequentlycheckthe blade for wear or damagesuch as
cracks. Frequentlycheckthe bolt that holds the blade.Keep
the bolt tight. If the blade hits an object, stop the engine.
Disconnectthe wire to the spark plug. Checkthe blade
adapter(A, Figure 18) for damage.Checkfor a bent or
damagedblade,a badlyworn blade,or other damage.Before
you operatethe unit, damaged parts must be replacedwith
factory replacementparts. Forsafety,replacethe blade every
two years. Keepa sharp edge on the blade.A bladethat is
not sharpwill causethe ends of the grass to become brown.
Removethe blade asfollows.
Removingthe Blade
WARNING:Beforeyou removethe blade,
disconnectthe wire to thespark plug. The
bladehassharpedges.Whenyou holdthe
blade, useglovesor clothmaterial to protect
yourhands.
1. Drain the fuel tank.
2. Lift the side of the mower that hasthe muffler or spark
plug.
3. Use a pieceof wood to keepthe bladefrom rotating.
4. Removethe bolt (B, Figure18) that holds the blade
with a 9/16" (14mm) wrench.
5. Checkthe blade (C)according to the "Blade Service"
instructions. Replacea badlyworn or damaged blade
with a factory replacementblade.
6. Mount the blade with the curved edgestoward the
housing. If the blade is upsidedown, the blade will not
cut correctly and can causean accident.
7. Fastenthe blade with the original washer (D) and bolt.
Make sure the outside rim of the Bellevillewasher is
toward the blade.
8. Tighten the bolt that holds the bladeto a torque of 30
foot pounds.
WARNING:Alwayskeepthe boltthatholdsthe
blade tight. A looseboltor blade cancausean
accident.
Figure 18:Removing the blade
Sharpeningthe Blade
4_ WARNING:Vibration is the resultif the blade
is notcorrectlybalanced.A bladethat is
damagedwith crackscanbreak andcause
anaccident.
1. Sharpenthe bladetwo times a yearor every 25 hours.
2. If the blade is on the unit, do not sharpen. Removethe
blade according to the instructions in "Removing The
Blade".
3. Cleanthe bladewith a brush, soap, and water. Checkthe
blade. Lookfor cracks, nicks, or other damage. Replace
a blade that is badly worn, bent, or damagedwith a
factory replacementblade.
4. Sharpenthe blade(A, Figure19, nextpage) with a file
(B). Makesure you keepthe original beveledcutting
edge.
5. Make sure the blade is balanced. Usea screwdriver (C)
and hold the blade parallel to the ground (D) as shown.
A bladethat is balancedwill stay parallel to the ground.
If the blade is not balanced,the heavyend will rotate
toward the ground. Sharpenthe heavyend until the
blade is balanced.
6. A newblade will cut better than a badlyworn blade.
Everytwo years replacethe old bladewith a factory
replacementblade.
Checking the Level of Cut
Testthe unit in a small area. If the height of cut is not level
or if the cut grass is not discharged,the causecan be: (1)
the blade is bent or damaged, (2) the blade is not sharp, (3)
a worn blade, (4) or a broken blade adapter.Beforeyou use
the unit, correct the problem. 17

Maintenance
, % ,
_J L_
Figure 19:Sharpening the blade
Cleaningthe MowerHousing
WARNING:Theblade will rotate when the
engine runs. Beforeyou cleanthe mower hous-
ing, stop the engineand disconnect the wire
from the spark plug.
Grassand other debris can keepthe mower from working
correctly. After you mow, cleanthe mower housing as
follows.
1. Stop the engine.
2. Disconnectthe wire from the spark plug.
3. Cleandirt and debrisfrom the top of the mower hous-
ing. Cleanwith soap and water.Wipe off excess water
before storage.
Washout Port
WARNING:Use appropriateeye protection.
WARNING:Keeppeople and pets out of
the area.
1. Be sure the grass bag and side discharge deflector are
removed,and the mulching plug is installed.
2. Setthe height of cut to the lowest position. Referto the
'Adjusting the Height of Cut' section of this manual.
3. Move the mower to a flat, level, concreteor paved
surface.
4. Stop the engine.
5. Connectthe male end of a standard garden hoseto the
washout port connector (A, Figure20, next page).
6. Turnon the water supply to the garden hose.
7. Start the engineand run until no more debris emerges
from under the mower housing.
_ ARNING:Stay behind the handle while the
engine is running.
8. Stop the engine.
9. Turnoff the water supply to the garden hose.
10.Disconnectthe garden hosefrom thewashout port
connector.
11.Start the engineand run for 2-3 minutes, to allow the
bottom of the mower housing to dry.
Thewashout port allows hands-free cleaningof the bottom
of the mower housing. To usethe washout port:
18 www.sflapper.com

Maintenance
WARNING:Do not attempt mowing operations
while using the washout port.
WARNING:Do not attempt to look under or
reachunder the mower housing for any reason
while using the washout port. Serious injury
can result.
Figure20: Washoutport
Preparing the Mowerfor Storage
WARNING:Do not removegasoline while
insidea building, near a fire, or while you
smoke.Gasolinefumescancausean
explosionor a fire.
1. Drain the fuel tank.
2. Let the engine run until it is out of gasoline.
3. Drain the oil from the warm engine.Fillthe engine
crankcasewith newoil.
4. Removethe spark plug from the cylinder. Pour one
ounce of oil into the cylinder. Slowly pull the recoil-start
grip so that the oil will protect the cylinder. Install a new
spark plug in the cylinder.
5. Cleanthe dirt anddebrisfrom the cylinder cooling fins
and the engine housing.
6. Cleanthe bottom of the mower housing.
7. Make sure the grass bag is empty of grass. Grass
remainingin the bag during storage will damagethe
bag.
8. Completely cleanthe mower to protect the paint.
9. Foldthe handles(if desired).
CAUTION:Be careful whenyou fold or raisethe handle.Do
not damagethe cables.A cablethat is bent will not work
correctly. Beforeyou usethe unit, replacea bent or damaged
cable.
10. Put the unit in a building that hasgood ventilation.
19

Troubleshooting
The enginewill notstart.
1. Make sure the fuel tank is filled with cleangasoline. Do not useold gasoline.
2. Thewiring harnessis disconnected.Connectthe wiring harness.
3. Make sure the wire for the spark plug is connectedto the spark plug.
4. Thereis too much gasoline in the engine cylinder. Removeand dry the spark plug. Pull the recoil-start grip severaltimes.
Install the spark plug. Connectthe wire to the spark plug. Start the engine.
5. Theengine is difficult to start in heavyor high grass. Move the mower to a cleandry surface.
6. Make sure the engine stop leveris in the operating position.
The enginewill notstop.
1. Releasethe engine stop lever.
2. Checkthe enginestop cable. Replacethe cableif bent or damaged.
Engineperformance is bad.
1. Checkthe height of cut settings. Raisethe height of cut if the grass is high.
2. Checkthe bottom of the blade housing. Cleanthe blade housing of grass and other debris.
3. Checkthe wire to the spark plug. Makesure the wire is connected.
4. Cleanthe engine cooling fins of grass and other debris.
5. Checkthe spark plug gap. Referto the engine manual.
6. Checkthe amount of oil in the engine. Fillwith oil if necessary.
7. Checkthe engineair cleaner.Refer to the engine manual.
8. Thegasoline is bad. Drain and cleanthe fuel tank. Fill the fuel tank with cleangasoline.
Excessivevibration.
1. Removethe blade. Checkthe blade and balanceif necessary.Seethe blade maintenanceinstructions.
2. Checkfor a bent or broken blade.Adamagedblade isdangerousand mustbe replaced.
3. Checkthe blade adapter.Replacea brokenbladeadapter.
4. If the vibration continues, take the mower to anAuthorized Service Center.
The grasswill notdischargecorrectly.
1. Cleanthe bottom of the mower housing.
2. Checkfor a badlyworn blade.Removeand sharpenthe blade. Forsafety, replacethe blade every two years with a factory
replacementblade.
The grassisnotcuteven.
1. Checkthe height adjustment at eachwheel. The height adjustment must be the samefor eachwheel.
2. Make sure the blade is sharp.
3. Checkfor a bent or broken blade.A damaged blade is dangerous and must be replaced.
4. Checkfor a broken blade adapter.Replace a brokenbladeadapter.
20 www.snapper.com