Southland SM2243 User manual

Look Inside for:
Page
Specifications 2
Safety Definitions 3
Important Safety Information 4-6
Parts & Features 8
Assembly 9-10
Operation 11-15
Maintenance 16-18
Storage 19
Technical Service 19
Troubleshooting 20
Warranty 21-23
Repair Parts 24-26
09/10/2014 Printed in the USA A203007
Operator’s Manual
WALK-BEHIND
LAWN MOWER
Record the following for future reference:
Model No: ___________________
Mfg. Date Code: _________________________________________
Date of Purchase: Attach a copy of your sales receipt.
Consumer Toll Free Number: 1-800-737-2112
KEEP THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
MODEL NO
SM2243
If you have a question or problem...
CALL TOLL FREE: 1-800-737-2112
Refer to the website for electronic manual and parts book.
www.southlandpowerequipment.com
IMPORTANT:
This manual provides complete instructions for safely operating and maintaining your mower.
Read and save these instructions. Refer to this manual each time before using your mower.

Questions? Call Toll Free at 1-800-737-2112 Copyright © 2014 MAT Engine Technologies, LLC
ENG - 2
Specifications
MODEL SM2243
Cutting Width 21.61 in (549 mm)
Cutting Depths
3-position height adjust
1-1/8˝ to 3-3/4˝ (28.8-96.6 mm)
Blade Bolt Torque 25-30 ft/lbs
Unit Weight 60 lb (27.2 kg)
Gasoline Type Regular Unleaded, >=87 Octane Fuel
containing Ethanol > 10% is not recom-
mended.•
• Refer to Engine Owner’s Manual for engine specications.
MEETS CPSC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
This walk-behind mower conforms to the safety standards of the American National Standards Insti-
tute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
WARNING CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING
Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
WARNING
The blade turns when the engine is running.

Questions? Call Toll Free at 1-800-737-2112 Copyright © 2014 MAT Engine Technologies, LLC
ENG - 3
PUSH TO PRIME
Push primer 3 times
before starting a cold
engine. IMPORTANT: Do
not prime to restart a
warm engine.
Oil Fill Location
Do Not Overfill
Indicates WARNING,
DANGER, or CAUTION.
Use common sense. Watch
what you are doing.
Do not mow when children
or others are around.
Read all instructions care-
fully.
This mower can throw
small objects at high speed
causing personal injury or
property damage. Remove
objects that could be thrown
by the blade.
Keep hands and feet away
from rotating parts.
Wear eye protection that
meets or exceeds the re-
quirements ofANSI Z87.1.
Do not mow slopes greater
than 15°. Mow across slopes,
never up and down.
Extremely hot surface. The
muffler and engine become
hot and can burn you. Do
not touch.
DANGER
KEEP HANDS and FEET AWAY
DANGER The mower is capable of amputating hands and feet. To avoid risk or serious
injury, do not put hands or feet near or under the mower. Keep clear of the dis-
charge opening at all times.
Safety Definitions
• Save all instructions
DANGER Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result
in death or serious injury.
WARNING Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result
in death or serious injury.
CAUTION Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result
in minor/moderate injury, or equipment/property damage.
The symbols below identify important safety information in this manual. Become familiar with these
symbols and the warnings associated with these symbols.
Become familiar with and understand the meaning of the warning symbols found on your mower.
Safety Warning Symbols
Control and Operating Symbols
Safety Alert Symbols
Important Safety Information

Questions? Call Toll Free at 1-800-737-2112 Copyright © 2014 MAT Engine Technologies, LLC
ENG - 4
Important Safety Information
DANGER
Carbon Monoxide. Using an engine indoors can kill you in minutes. Engine exhaust contains
high levels of carbon monoxide (CO), a poisonous gas you cannot see or smell. You may be
breathing CO even if you do not smell engine exhaust.
DANGER
The mower is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Read and follow all warn-
ings and safety instructions on the mower and in this manual. Failure to do so can result in serious
injury or death to you or bystanders.
WARNING
In order to prevent accidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs,
always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot come in contact with plug.
CAUTION
Mufer 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 discharge opening at
all times.
• Only allow responsible individuals, who are
familiar with the instructions, to operate the machine.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys,
wire, bones, sticks, etc., which could be picked
up and thrown by blade.
• Be sure the area is clear of other people,
particularly small children, before mowing.
Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
• Do not operate the mower when barefoot 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.
• Never direct discharged material toward anyone.
Avoid discharging material against a wall or
obstruction. Material may ricochet back toward
the operator.
• 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 approved 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.
• Shut the engine (motor) off and wait until the
blade comes to complete stop before removing
grass catcher or accessories.
• Do not operate the machine while under the
inuence of alcohol or drugs.
• Never operate machine in wet grass. Always
be sure of your footing: keep a rm hold on the
handle; walk, never run.
• Disengage the self-propelled mechanism or
drive clutch on mowers so equipped before
starting the engine.
• If the equipment should start to vibrate
abnormally, stop the engine (motor) and check
immediately for the cause. Vibration is
generally a warning of trouble.
• Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses
with side shields when operating mower.
Important Safety Information
• Save all instructions

Questions? Call Toll Free at 1-800-737-2112 Copyright © 2014 MAT Engine Technologies, LLC
ENG - 5
II. SLOPE OPERATION
WARNING
Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall
accidents, which can result in severe injury. Operation
on all slopes requires extra caution. If you feel
uneasy on a slope, do not mow it.
• If a slope is greater than 15° do not mow. Use
the Slope Guide inside this manual to measure
slopes before operating this mower on a slope
or hilly area.
• Mow across the face of slopes; never up and
down. Exercise extreme caution when changing
direction on slopes.
• Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other
hidden objects. Uneven terrain could cause
a slip and fall accident. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
• Do not mow on wet grass or excessively steep
slopes. Poor footing could cause a slip and fall
accident.
• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or
embankments. You could lose your footing or
balance.
• If you do lose your balance, release the handle
and blade control lever immediately.
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 machine.
• Use extra care when approaching blind corners,
shrubs, trees, or other objects that may
obscure vision.
IV. SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE
Use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gaso-
line is extremely ammable and the vapors are
explosive.
• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and
other sources of ignition.
• Use only an approved container.
• Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the
engine running. Allow engine to cool before
refueling.
• Never refuel the machine indoors.
• Never store the machine or fuel container
where there is an open ame, spark or pilot
light such as a water heater or on other appliances.
• Never ll containers inside a vehicle, on a
truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner.Always
place containers on the ground away from
your vehicle before lling.
• Remove gas-powered equipment from the
truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If
this is not possible, then refuel such equipment
with a portable container, rather than from a
gasoline dispenser nozzle.
• 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.
• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing
immediately.
• Never overll fuel tank. Replace gas cap and
tighten securely.
V. GENERAL SERVICE
• Never run a 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 attach
ment bolts, tight and keep equipment 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.
Important Safety Information (Continued)
• Save all instructions
Important Safety Information

Questions? Call Toll Free at 1-800-737-2112 Copyright © 2014 MAT Engine Technologies, LLC
ENG - 6
Important Safety Information
Important Safety Information (Continued)
• Save all instructions
• Never attempt to make wheel height adjustments while the engine 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 setting or over speed the engine.
• Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as necessary.
WARNING
This mower 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.

Questions? Call Toll Free at 1-800-737-2112 Copyright © 2014 MAT Engine Technologies, LLC
ENG - 7
WARNING! Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents, which can result in severe injury. Operation on all slopes requires extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it. Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down. Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.
15 Degrees
10 Degrees
SLOPE GUIDE SIGHT AND HOLD THIS GUIDE LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE, A CORNER OF A STRUC- TURE, A POWER LINE POLE, OR A FENCE. Use this guide and do not mow on a slope greater than 15 degrees. A 15-degree slope is a hill that increases in height at approximately 2.5 feet (0.76 meters) in 10 feet (3.05 meters).
FOLD ALONG DOTTED LINE

Questions? Call Toll Free at 1-800-737-2112 Copyright © 2014 MAT Engine Technologies, LLC
ENG - 8
Parts & Features
• Save all instructions
A. Blade Control Lever: Must be held against the
handle to start the engine. When released the
engine will stop.
B. Handle
C. Engine: Refer to the separate Engine Owner’s
manual for location and operation of engine
controls.
D. Wheels: Have a three position height
adjustment. Refer to Adjust Cutting Height
paragraph under Operation.
E. Side Discharge Chute: Refer to Converting
Mower From Side Discharge to Mulch Plug
paragraph under Operation.
Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual(s) before starting. To
be able to operate your mower safely and get the best performance, become familiar with the controls
and the proper use of the machine before starting. Save this manual for future reference.
NOTE: Photographs and line drawings used in this manual are for reference only and may not
represent a specific model.
F. Mulching Cover: Stored in position shown.
Refer to Converting Mower From Side
Dischargeto Mulch Plug paragraph under
Operation.
G. Handle Knobs
H. Starter Rope Guide
I. Starter Rope Handle: Used to start engine.
AA. Rear Door
BB. Rear Bag Handle
CC. Rear Bag Assembly
Y. Height Adjuster Spring Lever
Y. Height Adjuster Index Plate
A
B
G
F
E
D
I
H
C
AA
BB
CC
Y
Y

Questions? Call Toll Free at 1-800-737-2112 Copyright © 2014 MAT Engine Technologies, LLC
ENG - 9
NOTE: All references to right or left side of the
mower are from the operator’s position behind
the unit.
IMPORTANT: The assembly instructions were
written for persons with some mechanical ability
and experience. All steps are not included in
these instructions. Persons with some mechani-
cal ability are familiar with tightening fasteners so
these steps are not included. Do not attempt to
assemble beyond your ability.
This mower was assembled at the factory with
the exception of a few parts left unassembled for
shipping purposes. To ensure safe and proper
operation of this mower, all parts and hardware
assembled must be tightened securely. Always
use the correct tools to ensure proper tightness.
All parts such as nuts, washers, bolts, etc.,
necessary to complete the assembly have been\
placed in the parts bag.
WARNING
Do not operate the mower if it is damaged or not
securely and fully assembled.
IMPORTANT: DO NOTADD ENGINE OIL BE-
FORE COMPLETING THE ASSEMBLY STEPS
BELOW. DURINGASSEMBLY THE ENGINE
MAY BE TIPPED FOR EXTENDED TIMES. OIL
CAN DRAIN INTO THE UPPER PART OF THE
ENGINE CAUSING DIFFICULTY IN STARTING
ENGINE.
PARTS INCLUDED WITH THE PACKED MOWER
NOTE: Hardware not shown full size.
Item
No. Description Qty
1 (J) Screw 5/16-18 round head square neck 2
2 (K) 516-18 Locknut 2
3 (H) Starter Rope Guide 1
4 (N) 1/4-20 Wingnut Knob 1
5(E) Discharge Chute 1
6 Oil 1
not
shown
Manual, Owners 1
Manual, Engine 1
Wheel Height Instruction Sheet 1
TO REMOVE MOWER FROM CARTON (FIG. 1)
1. Remove loose parts included with mower.
2. Cut down two end corners of carton and lay
end panel down at.
3. Remove all packing materials except padding
between upper and lower handle (B) and
padding holding blade control lever (A) to up
per handle.
4. Roll mower out of carton and check carton
thoroughly for additional loose parts.
6
4
1
2
3Fig. 1
5
Assembly
• Save all instructions
If you need assistance or find any parts
missing, CALL TOLL FREE: 1-800-737-2112.

Questions? Call Toll Free at 1-800-737-2112 Copyright © 2014 MAT Engine Technologies, LLC
ENG - 10
HANDLE ASSEMBLY (FIG. 2-4)
IMPORTANT: Unfold handles being careful not
to pinch or damage control cables.
NOTE: Use 1/2 in. wrenches, sockets or adjustable
wrenches to complete these steps.
1. Carefully raise handles (B) until lower handle
section is in mowing position.
2. Remove protective padding, raise upper
handle section into place on lower handle.
3. Insert screws (H, found in parts bag) into top
holes of the handle brackets (L) and secure
with locknuts (I, found in parts bag).
B
L
E
E
A
Fig. 2
NOTE: The handle screws (M) in the bottom
holes of the handle brackets were installed at the
factory so the handle will pivot.
4. Tighten all screws to secure handle. Torque to
10 ft/lbs.
5. Tighten both handle knobs (E).
6. Attach starter rope guide (F, found in parts bag)
to handle with locknut (J, found in parts bag). DO
NOT tighten locknut.
7. Thread starter rope handle (G) through starter
rope guide (F) as shown and tighten locknut (J).
8. Remove handle padding holding blade control
lever (A) to upper handle.
J
G
A
Fig. 4
F
NOTICE: The engine is shipped without oil.
Before starting engine, add oil. Damage to the
engine will occur if the engine is run without oil,
this damage will not be covered under warranty.
Refer to the Oil paragraph under Operation
before starting.
Assembly (Continued)
• Save all instructions
If you need assistance or find any parts
missing, CALL TOLL FREE: 1-800-737-2112.
JL
Fig. 3
M
K

Questions? Call Toll Free at 1-800-737-2112 Copyright © 2014 MAT Engine Technologies, LLC
ENG - 11
Operation
• Save all instructions
Read, understand, and follow all instructions on
the machine and in the manual(s) supplied before
starting. Be thoroughly familiar with the controls
and the proper use of the machine before starting.
The operation of any mower can result in
foreign objects being thrown into the eyes,
which can result in severe eye damage.
Always wear safety glasses or eye shields
while operating your mower or performing
any adjustments or repairs. We recom-
mend standard safety glasses or wide vi-
sion safety mask be worn over spectacles.
ENGINE SPEED
Engine speed was set at the factory for optimum
performance. It is not adjustable.
ENGINE CONTROL
WARNING
Federal regulations require an engine control to
be installed on this mower in order to minimize
the risk of blade contact injury. Do not under any
circumstances attempt to defeat the function of
the blade control lever. The blade turns when the
engine is running.
• Your mower is equipped with a blade control
lever which requires the operator to be
positioned behind the mower handle to start
and operate the mower.
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT (FIG. 5)
MODELS WITH SPRING LOADED HEIGHT
ADJUSTERS
NOTE: No tools required for models with spring
loaded height adjusters.
IMPORTANT: Before adjusting the cutting height
consider what is best for the lawn being cut. For
best results never cut off more than one-third of
the total length of the grass.
D
Y
Fig. 5
Z
The cutting height can be adjusted by engag-
ing one of seven height adjustment tabs on the
index plate (Y). Press the spring lever (Z) toward
the wheel and rotate the spring lever to raise or
lower the wheel (D). Line up the square hole in the
spring lever with the tab on the index plate for the
desired cutting height and release the spring lever.
NOTE: All four wheels MUST be adjusted in the
same height position.

Questions? Call Toll Free at 1-800-737-2112 Copyright © 2014 MAT Engine Technologies, LLC
ENG - 12
Operation (Continued)
• Save all instructions
CONVERTING MOWER FROM SIDE
DISCHARGE TO MULCH PLUG (FIG. 6)
The mower was shipped as a mulcher.
To convert the mower to side discharge:
Lift the mulching cover (F) and slide the hooks
(S) on the side discharge chute (E) under the
hinge pin (T) on the mulching cover as shown.
NOTE: DO NOT remove the mulching cover at
any time.
To convert the mower from side discharge to
mulching:
Lift the mulching cover (F) and slide the side dis-
charge chute (E) from under the hinge pin (T) on
the mulching cover. Store the discharge chute in a
safe place for future use.
E
T
Fig. 6
S
F

Questions? Call Toll Free at 1-800-737-2112 Copyright © 2014 MAT Engine Technologies, LLC
ENG - 13
Operation (Continued)
• Save all instructions
Snap plastic bag extrusions over
the bag frame with the open side
toward the inside of the bag.
Insert the bag frame in the bag
as shown.
REAR BAGGER MODELS

Questions? Call Toll Free at 1-800-737-2112 Copyright © 2014 MAT Engine Technologies, LLC
ENG - 14
Operation (Continued)
• Save all instructions
Bag Pivot Stop
Side Discharge Chute (E)
removed with Spring Loaded
Mulch Cover (F) in place
REAR BAGGER MODELS
Raise the Spring Loaded
Rear Door (AA)
Bag (CC) installs
from the rear
Slide the Bag (CC)
through the lower handle
Lower the Bag Frame Pivot Pins over the Bag Pivot
Stops on both sides of the rear cover

Questions? Call Toll Free at 1-800-737-2112 Copyright © 2014 MAT Engine Technologies, LLC
ENG - 15
Operation (Continued)
• Save all instructions
REAR BAGGER MODELS
Lift bag (CC) by
the Handle (BB)
Lower the spring loaded door to
seal against the bag opening
CC

Questions? Call Toll Free at 1-800-737-2112 Copyright © 2014 MAT Engine Technologies, LLC
ENG - 16
Operation (Continued)
• Save all instructions
ADD OIL
Refer to the separate Engine Owner’s manual
for additional engine information.
CAUTION
Check oil level before starting engine. If you
start the engine without oil, the engine will
be damaged beyond repair and will void your
warranty.
CAUTION
Overfilling with oil may cause hard starting,
spark plug fouling, and engine smoking.
Your mower’s engine is shipped from the factory
without engine oil. A container of engine oil is
included with your mower.Add Oil, refer to the
separate Engine Owner’s manual for the correct
procedure.
NOTE: Initial oil ll may require less than the
amount in the container due to residual oil in
engine from the manufacturers quality testing.
Slowly pour oil to prevent overlling.
ADD GASOLINE
Refer to the separate Engine Owner’s manual
for additional engine information.
WARNING
To avoid personal injury or property damage,
use extreme care when handling gasoline.
Gasoline is extremely flammable and the
vapors are explosive. Do not smoke or allow
smoking near fuel or the mower. Extinguish
all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources
of ignition. Never refuel while using a cell
phone. Never refuel the mower indoors. Refu-
el outdoors WHERE THERE ARE NO SPARKS
OR FLAMES. Never remove the fuel cap or
add fuel with the engine running. Always stop
engine and allow to cool before removing fuel
cap. Remove fuel cap slowly. Never overfill
fuel tank. Avoid spilling fuel or oil. Wipe up all
fuel spills.
CAUTION
Fresh fuel prevents buildup of varnish and gum
in the carburetor and fuel system. Commonly
available fuel additives which reduce varnish and
gum in your engine’s fuel system can be added
according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Do
not use gasoline which contains ethanol. Do not
mix oil with gasoline.
1. In a well ventilated outdoor area add fresh,
high quality, unleaded gasoline with a pump
octane rating of 87 or higher. Do not overll.
Wipe up spilled fuel before starting the engine.
Refer to the separate Engine Owners Manual
for correct procedure.
2. Move at least 10 ft. (3 m) away from fueling
site before starting engine.

Questions? Call Toll Free at 1-800-737-2112 Copyright © 2014 MAT Engine Technologies, LLC
ENG - 17
Operation (Continued)
• Save all instructions
TO STOP THE ENGINE (FIG. 7)
WARNING
Wait for the blade to come to a complete stop be-
fore attempting to perform any work on the mower.
Release blade control lever (A) to stop the engine
and the blade.
TO START THE ENGINE (FIG. 7)
NOTE: Due to protective coatings on the engine,
a small amount of smoke may be present dur-
ing the initial use of the product and should be
considered normal.
Prior to starting, refer to the separate Engine
Owner’s manual for proper starting and stop-
ping procedure.
DANGER
Never start or run the mower inside a closed
room or building; breathing exhaust fumes
can kill. Do not put hands or feet near or
under the mower. Keep clear of the discharge
opening at all times. Keep children and by-
standers away when starting the engine and
out of the mowing area.
1. Push the primer (if equipped) slowly three
times – waiting about 2 seconds between each
push. Refer to the separate Engine Owner’s
manual for engine control locations.
NOTE: When temperatures are below 55 ºF,
press primer ve times. When restarting a warm
engine, do not use the primer.
2. Stand behind the mower handle, grasp the
blade control lever (A) and hold it rmly against
the upper handle (B).
BFig. 7
A
G
3. Grasp the starter rope handle (G) and pull
slowly until resistance is felt, then pull rapidly
to start.
4. Slowly return starter rope handle to the starter
rope guide and release.
IMPORTANT: To avoid damage to the engine’s
starter, do not allow the starter rope to snap back
against the rope guide.

Questions? Call Toll Free at 1-800-737-2112 Copyright © 2014 MAT Engine Technologies, LLC
ENG - 18
Operation (Continued)
• Save all instructions
MOWING TIPS
Thoroughly inspect the area where the mower is to be used and remove all foreign objects such as
rocks, wire, toys, etc.
WARNING
This mower can throw small objects at high speed causing personal injury or property damage.
CAUTION
If you strike a foreign object or if the mower starts to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine. Remove
spark plug boot from the spark plug, thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage, and repair the
damage before restarting and operating the mower. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
For best results
• Do not cut wet grass.
• Never cut off more than one-third of the total length of the grass.
• Plan ahead and use a mowing path in a counterclockwise direction that discharges the new grass
clippings away from the remaining area to mow.
• Adjust your mowing speed to the condition of the lawn. Do not force mower. It will do the job better,
last longer and with less likelihood of a risk of injury at the rate for which it was designed.
• New grass, thick grass or wet grass may require you to use less than the mower’s full advertised
cutting width.
• When mowing very tall grass, adjust the mower height to its highest setting and make a rst cut.
Adjust mower to the desired height of the second cut.

Questions? Call Toll Free at 1-800-737-2112 Copyright © 2014 MAT Engine Technologies, LLC
ENG - 19
Maintenance
• Save all instructions
WARNING
In order to prevent accidental starting when set-
ting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs,
always disconnect spark plug wire and place
wire where it cannot come in contact with plug.
CAUTION
If the engine has been running, the mufer will
be very hot. Be careful not to touch the mufer.
GENERAL
• Always observe all safety warnings when
performing any maintenance.
• Maintain the mower with care.
• Inspect the mower periodically. If the mower
is not working properly or damaged, have it
repaired by a qualied service center.
• Do not change engine governor setting or
overspeed the engine.
• Do not remove or modify any parts. Removing
or modifying parts could lead to injury, damage
the mower and will void the warranty.
• Use only genuine replacement parts and
accessories. Unapproved parts or
accessories could lead to injury, damage to
the unit and void your warranty
• Periodically check all fasteners and ensure
they are tight.
LUBRICATION
Keep the unit well lubricated
• Using a light lubricating oil to lubricate pivot
points on the blade control lever, wheels and
mulcher door hinge.
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic wheel
bearings. Viscous lubricants will attract dust and
dirt that will shorten the life of the self lubricat-
ing bearings. If you feel they must be lubricated,
use only a dry, powdered graphite type lubricant
sparingly.
• Refer to the separate Engine Owner’s manual
for lubrication schedule and instructions for
engine lubrication.
CLEANING
IMPORTANT: For best performance, keep mower
housing free of grass build-up and trash. Clean the
underside of your mower after each use.
WARNING
In order to prevent accidental starting when set-
ting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs,
always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire
where it cannot come in contact with plug.
CAUTION
Always tip the mower so it is resting on the side of
the deck and the air lter side of the engine is fac-
ing up. Make sure the mower is resting in a stable
position before beginning to clean the deck. Never
tip the mower more than 90º in any direction and
do not leave the mower tipped for extended periods
of time.
Oil can drain into the top part of the engine and
cause starting problems.
• Before cleaning the underside of the deck,
always drain the fuel tank by running the engine
till the tank is empty.
• Clean the underside of your mower by scraping
to remove build-up of grass and trash.
• Keep nished surfaces and wheels free of all
gasoline, oil, etc.
• We do not recommend using a garden hose to
clean mower unless the electrical system,
mufer, air lter and carburetor are covered to
keep water out. Water in engine can result in
shortened engine life.

Questions? Call Toll Free at 1-800-737-2112 Copyright © 2014 MAT Engine Technologies, LLC
ENG - 20
Maintenance (Continued)
• Save all instructions
ENGINE
A list of key engine maintenance items required for good performance is listed here. Consult the
separate Engine Owners Manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations for any and all engine
maintenance.
1. Check engine oil level before each use and maintain oil level as instructed in the separate
Engine Owners Manual.
2. Service air lter per Engine Owners Manual recommendations. Clean every few hours under
extremely dusty conditions. Poor engine performance and ooding usually indicates that the
air cleaner should be serviced.
CAUTION
Never run the engine without an air lter installed. Running the engine without the lter can cause
excessive engine wear and damage.
3. Clean engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep the top of the engine free of debris to permit
proper air circulation. Remove all grass, dirt and combustible material from mufer area.
BLADE CARE
For best results, mower blade must be kept sharp. Clean and inspect blade for cracks, nicks or other
damage. Replace a blade that is badly worn, bent or damaged with a factory replacement blade.
CAUTION
Use only a replacement blade shown in the Repair Parts section of this manual. Using a blade not
approved by the manufacturer of your mower is hazardous, could damage your mower and void your
warranty.
CAUTION
Use extra care when servicing mower blades. Blades are sharp. To protect your hands, wrap the
blade or wear gloves when handling.