Yard-Man 503 Lawn Mower User Manual
Contents
1. YaRD MaN Operator s Manual 22 Rotary Mowers Model 503 IMPORTANT READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY Warning This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest covered brush covered or grass covered land unless the engine s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws if any If a spark arrester is used it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator In the State of California the above is required by law Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code Other states may have similar laws Federal laws apply on federal lands A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the service department P O Box 361131 Cleveland Ohio 44136 0019 MTD LLC P O BOX 361131 CLEVELAND OHIO 44136 0019 PRINTED IN U S A FORM NO 769 00904 10 03 TABLE OF CONTENTS Content Page Content Page Important Safe Operation Practices 3 Making Adjustments 10 Slope Gauge 6 Maintaining Your Lawn Mower 11 Assembling Your Lawn Mower 7 Trouble Shooting 13 Know Your Lawn Mower 9 Illustrated Parts List 14 Operating Your Lawn Mower 9 Warranty 16 FINDING MODEL NUMBER This Operator s Manual is an important part of your new lawn mower It will help you assemble prepare and maintain the unit for best performance Please read and understand wh2. Service Locator Need local assistance Click here to find authorized service centers in your area an Manuals Online Need a manual and or parts list Download literature from recent model years The answer you are looking for could be just a mouse Click away If you prefer to reach a Customer Support Representative please call 1 800 800 7310 Engine Manual information The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine related issues with regards to performance power rating specifications warranty and service Please refer to the engine manufacturer s Owner s Operator s Manual packed separately with your unit for more SECTION 1 IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES WARNING This symbol points out important safety instructions which if not followed could endanger the personal safety and or property of yourself and others Read and follow all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal injury When you see this symbol heed its warning WARNING Engine Exhaust some of its constituents and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm DANGER This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this manual As with any type of power equipment carelessness or error on the p
3. length of time Oil can drain into the upper part of the engine causing a starting problem Engine Care A list of key maintenance jobs required for good performance by the mower is given below Follow the accompanying engine manual for details e Change the engine oil regularly as instructed in the engine manual Check oil level before starting engine every time e Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal conditions Poor engine performance and flooding usually indicate that the air cleaner should be serviced To service the air cleaner refer to the separate engine manual packed with your unit e Clean the engine periodically Remove dirt and debris with a cloth or brush e Keep the cooling system blower housing area clean to permit proper air circulation which is essential to engine performance and life Be certain to remove all grass dirt and combustible debris from muffler area e Clean the spark plug and reset the gap to 030 at least once a season Refer to the engine manual for correct spark plug type e Inspect muffler periodically and replace if necessary Deck The underside of the mower deck should be cleaned after each use to prevent a buildup of grass clippings leaves dirt or other matter If this debris is allowed to accumulate it will invite rust and corrosion and may prevent proper mulching discharge or bagging The deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower and scraping clean with a suitable
4. the grass catcher or unclogging the chute The cutting blade continues to rotate for a few seconds after the engine is shut off Never place any part of the body in the blade area until you are sure the blade has stopped rotating 20 Never operate mower without proper trail shield discharge cover grass catcher blade control handle or other safety protective devices in place and working Never operate mower with damaged safety devices Failure to do so can result in personal injury 21 Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn Do not touch 22 Only use parts and accessories made for this machine by the manufacturer Failure to do so can result in personal injury 23 If situations occur which are not covered in this manual use care and good judgment Contact your dealer for assistance Telephone 1 800 800 7310 for the name of your nearest dealer Slope Operation Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents which can result in severe injury Operation on slopes requires extra caution If you feel uneasy on a slope do not mow it For your safety use the slope gauge included as part of this manual to measure slopes before operating this unit on a sloped or hilly area If the slope is greater than 15 degrees do not mow it Do 1 Mow across the face of slopes never up and down Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes 2 Watch for holes ruts rocks hidden objects or bumps whic
5. to others and their property arising out of the misuse or inability to use the product This limited warranty shall not extend to anyone other than the original purchaser or to the person for whom it was purchased as a gift HOW STATE LAW RELATES TO THIS WARRANTY This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state IMPORTANT Owner must present Original Proof of Purchase to obtain warranty coverage MTD LLC P 0 BOX 361131 CLEVELAND OHIO 44136 0019 Phone 1 800 800 7310
6. tool make certain the spark plug wire is disconnected IMPORTANT We do not recommend the use of a 1 WARNING When removing the cutting blade pressure washer or garden hose to clean your unit Cutting Blade Removal Replacement and Sharpening blade for sharpening or replacement protect your hands with a pair of heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the Periodically inspect the blade adapter for cracks especially if you strike a foreign object Replace when necessary Removing the Blade e Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug e Turn mower on its side making sure that the air filter and the carburetor are up e Remove the bolt and the blade bell support which hold the blade and the blade adapter to the engine crankshaft See Figure 14 Remove the blade and the adapter from the crankshaft Blade Adapter Blade Bell Support Hex Bolt Figure 14 Sharpening the Blade The blade can be sharpened with a file or ona grinding wheel Do not attempt to sharpen the blade while it is still on the mower e Follow the original angle of grind as a guide Make sure that each cutting edge receives an equal amount of grinding to prevent an unbalanced blade Balancing the Blade The blade can be tested by balancing it on a round shaft screwdriver Remove metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly It is recommended that the blade always be removed from the adapter when testing for balance Before re
7. 2094 Pivot Arm Assembly 48 712 0130 Hex Lock Nut 3 8 16 23 748 0376C Blade Adapter 49 731 04525 Engine Shroud 24 742 0742A 22 Mulching Blade tlf Equipped MANUFACTURER S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR YARD MAN YaRD MaN The limited warranty set forth below is given by MTD LLC with respect to new merchandise purchased and used in the United States its possessions and territories MTD warrants this product against defects in material and workmanship for a period of two 2 years commencing on the date of original purchase and will at its option repair or replace free of charge any part found to be defective in materials or workmanship This limited warranty shall only apply if this product has been operated and maintained in accordance with the Operator s Manual furnished with the product and has not been subject to misuse abuse commercial use neglect accident improper maintenance alteration vandalism theft fire water or damage because of other peril or natural disaster Damage resulting from the installation or use of any part accessory or attachment not approved by MTD for use with the product s covered by this manual will void your warranty as to any resulting damage Normal wear parts or components thereof are subject to separate terms as follows All normal wear parts or component failures will be covered on the product for a period of 30 days regardless of cause After 30 days but within the two year pe
8. 6 MAKING ADJUSTMENTS Cutting Height Adjustment WARNING Do not at any time make any A adjustments without first stopping engine and disconnecting spark plug wire Each wheel has a height adjustment lever which provides cutting height adjustment When the adjustment lever is moved from one location to another the height of cut will be changed Simply depress the lever towards wheel and move lever assembly to desired position See Figure 11 IMPORTANT All wheels must be placed in the same relative position For rough or uneven lawns move the height adjustment lever to a higher position This will help stop scalping of the grass Figure 11 in the fall as long as there is growth This mower is designed to be operated at full throttle to give you the best cut and do the most effective job of mowing or mulching WARNING If you strike a foreign object A stop the engine Remove wire from the spark plug thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage and repair the damage before restarting and operating the mower Extensive vibration of the mower during operation is an indication of damage The unit should be promptly inspected and repaired Mulching For effective mulching do not cut wet grass because it tends to stick to the underside of the deck preventing proper mulching of grass clippings New or thick grass may require a narrower cut The ground speed should be adjusted to the condition of the lawn If mowing has be
9. RNING This blade control mechanism A is a safety device Never attempt to bypass Cutting Height Adjustment Lever its operations These levers are located on each wheel and they are used to adjust the cutting height All four levers have to be at the same relative position to ensure an uniform cut See Figure 10 Engine Controls See the separate engine manual for the location and function of the controls on the engine Handle Mulching 5 Cutting Height Adjustment Starter Discharge Chute Figure 10 Stopping Engine e Release blade control handle to stop the engine and the blade e Disconnect spark plug wire and ground it to a bolt on the engine again refer to the Safety Section in this WARNING Before using your lawn mower A manual Always be careful NOTE See your engine manual packed with your unit for more detailed instructions SECTION 5 OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER chute area on the cutting deck The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign objects being thrown into the eyes which can result in severe eye damage Always wear safety glasses or eye shields Gas and Oil Fill Up Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your mower Read instructions carefully l WARNING Keep hands and feet away from engine running or until the engine has been allowed to cool for at least two minutes after running 1 WARNING Never fill fu
10. an your mowing pattern to avoid discharge of material toward roads sidewalks bystanders and the like Also avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction which may cause discharged material to ricochet back toward the operator To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury stay in the operator zone behind the handles and keep children bystanders helpers and pets at least 75 feet from the mower while it is in operation Stop machine if anyone enters the area Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during operation and while performing an adjustment or repair to protect your eyes Thrown objects which ricochet can cause serious injury to the eyes Wear sturdy rough soled work shoes and close fitting slacks and shirts Shirts and pants that cover the arms and legs and steel toed shoes are recommended Never 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 operate this machine in bare feet sandals slippery or light weight e g canvas shoes Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the cutting deck Contact with the blade can amputate hands and feet A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade contact or thrown object injuries Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being pulled over the foot during a fall caused by slipping or tripping Do not hold on to the mower if you are falling release the handle immediately Never pull the mower back toward you while you are walking If
11. ar gloves and use extra caution when servicing them Keep all nuts bolts and screws tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition Never tamper with safety devices Check their proper operation regularly After striking a foreign object stop the engine disconnect the spark plug wire and ground against the engine TO REDUCE THE RISK OF INJURY DO NOT OPERATE MOWER UNLESS DISCHARGE CHUTE COVER OR GRASS CATCHER IS IN ITS PROPER PLACE DANGER KEEP HANDS and FEET AWAY Thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage Repair the damage before starting and operating the mower 8 Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height adjustment while the engine is running 9 Grass catcher components discharge cover and trail shield are subject to wear and damage which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown For safety protection frequently check components and replace immediately with original equipment manufacturer s O E M parts only listed in this manual Use of parts which do not meet the original equipment specifications may lead to improper performance and compromise safety 10 Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed the engine The governor controls the maximum safe operating speed of the engine 11 Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels as necessary 12 Observe proper disposal laws and regulations Improper disposal of fluids and materials can ha
12. art of the operator can result in serious injury This machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death General Operation 1 Read this operator s manual carefully in its entirety before attempting to assemble this machine Read understand and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual s before operation Be completely familiar with the controls and the proper use of this machine before operating it Keep this manual in a safe place for future and regular reference and for ordering replacement parts This machine is a precision piece of power equipment not a plaything Therefore exercise extreme caution at all times Your unit has been designed to perform one job to mow grass Do not use it for any other purpose Never allow children under 14 years old to operate this machine Children 14 years old and over should read and understand the operation instructions and safety rules in this manual and should be trained and supervised by a parent Only responsible individuals who are familiar with these rules of safe operation should be allowed to use this machine Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to be used Remove all stones sticks wire bones toys and other foreign objects which could be tripped over or picked up and thrown by the blade Thrown objects can cause serious personal injury Pl
13. arts Service completed by someone other than an authorized service dealer g Transportation charges and service calls o No implied warranty including any implied warranty of merchantability of fitness for a particular purpose applies after the applicable period of express written warranty above as to the parts as identified No other express warranty whether written or oral except as mentioned above given by any person or entity including a dealer or retailer with respect to any product shall bind MTD During the period of the warranty the exclusive remedy is repair or replacement of the product as set forth above The provisions as set forth in this warranty provide the sole and exclusive remedy arising from the sale MTD shall not be liable for incidental or consequential loss or damage including without limitation expenses incurred for substitute or replacement lawn care services or for rental expenses to temporarily replace a warranted product Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages or limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts so the above exclusions or limitations may not apply to you In no event shall recovery of any kind be greater than the amount of the purchase price of the product sold Alteration of safety features of the product shall void this warranty You assume the risk and liability for loss damage or injury to you and your property and or
14. at it says Before you start assembling your new equipment please locate the model plate on the equipment and copy the information from it in the space provided below A sample model plate is also given below You can locate the model plate by standing at the operating position and looking down at the rear of the deck This information will be necessary to use the manufacturer s web site and or help from the Customer Support Department or an authorized service dealer Copy the model number here YaRD MaN MTDC aiai Copy the serial number here eT CLEVELAND OH 44136 330 229 4683 www yardman com 00 800 7310 CUSTOMER SUPPORT Please do NOT return the unit to the retailer from where it was purchased without first contacting Customer Support If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls operation or maintenance of this unit you can seek help from the experts Choose from the options below g Visit yardman com for many useful suggestions Click on Customer Support button and you will get the four options reproduced here Click on the appropriate button and help is immediately available oduct keyword or phrase yr Find Answers 8 here to search our knowledge base Sear The answer you are looking for could be just a mouse click away My Stuff Login to check the status of your questions modify your inquiries or update your personal profile
15. el tank indoors with Starting Engine Attach spark plug wire to spark plug Make certain the metal cap on the end of the spark plug is fastened securely over the metal tip on the spark plug Prime engine as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your unit e Your lawn mower may be equipped with a constant speed throttle which is set at full throttle for best performance e Stand behind the mower and squeeze the blade control handle against the upper handle e Grasp recoil starter handle and pull rope out slowly until engine reaches the start of compression cycle rope will pull slightly harder at this point Let the rope rewind slowly Pull rope with a rapid continuous full arm stroke Keeping a firm grip on the starter handle let the rope return to the starter slowly Using Your Lawn Mower Be sure that the lawn is clear of stones sticks wire or other objects which could damage the lawn mower or the engine Such objects could be accidently thrown by the mower in any direction and cause serious personal injury to the operator and others For best results do not cut wet grass because it tends to stick to the underside of the mower preventing proper discharge of grass clippings and could cause you to slip and fall New grass thick grass or wet grass may require a narrower cut For a healthier lawn never cut off more than one third of the total length of the grass Your lawn should be cut SECTION
16. en delayed and the grass has been allowed to grow in excess of 4 mulching is not recommended Mow using the side discharge to reduce the grass height to 3 1 4 maximum before mulching Handle Height Adjustment Your mower is shipped with the handle in the higher height position To lower the height proceed as follows Remove the starter rope from the rope guide e Disconnect the handle from the handle bracket assemblies by removing the wing nuts See Figure 12 e Position each handle bracket assembly stud into one of the other holes in the lower handle e Each end of the lower handle must be placed in same relative position Reassemble wing nuts removed earlier and reattach starter rope to rope guide Lower Yee Figure 12 SECTION 7 MAINTAINING YOUR LAWN MOWER Customer Responsibilities MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE Lubricate Wheels SERVICE DATES Lubricate Blade Control Clean Deck O D Q O am A Blade Care Check Oil Change Oil Replace Air Filter Clean Engine Check Spark Plug Check Spark Arrester if any General Recommendations e Always observe safety rules when performing any maintenance e The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover items that have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence To receive full value from the warranty operator must maintain the lawn mower as instructed in this manual e Changing of engine governed speed
17. h can cause you to slip or trip Tall grass can hide obstacles 3 Always be sure of your footing A slip and fall can cause serious personal injury If you feel you are losing your balance release the blade control handle immediately and the blade will stop rotating within 3 seconds Do Not 1 Do not mow near drop offs ditches or embankments you could lose your footing or balance 2 Donot mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as shown on the slope gauge 3 Do not mow on wet grass Unstable footing could cause slipping Children Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children Children are often attracted to the mower and the mowing activity They do not understand the dangers Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them 1 Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of a responsible adult other than the operator Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area 3 Before and while moving backwards look behind and down for small children 4 Use extreme care when approaching blind corners doorways shrubs trees or other objects that may obscure your vision of a child who may run into the mower 5 Keep children away from hot or running engines They can suffer burns from a hot muffler 6 Never allow children under 14 years old to operate a power mower Children 14 years old and over should read and understand the operation instruct
18. h gasoline 3 Ventin gas plugged 3 Clear vent 4 Water or dirt in fuel system 4 Drain fuel tank Refill with fresh fuel 5 Dirty air cleaner 5 Clean air cleaner 6 Carburetor out of adjustment 6 Adjust carburetor Engine overheats 1 Engine oil level low 1 Fill crankcase with proper oil 2 Airflow restricted 2 Remove blower housing and clean 3 Carburetor not adjusted properly 3 Adjust carburetor Idles poorly 1 Spark plug fouled faulty or gap too 1 Reset gap to 030 or replace spark wide plug 2 Carburetor improperly adjusted 2 Adjust carburetor 3 Dirty air cleaner 3 Clean air cleaner Excessive vibration 1 Cutting blade loose or unbalanced 1 Tighten blade and adapter Balance blade 2 Bent cutting blade 2 Replace blade Mower will not mulch grass 1 Wet grass 1 Do not mow when grass is wet wait until later to cut 2 Excessively high grass 2 Mowonce ata high cutting height then mow again at desired height or make a narrower cutting path 3 Dull blade 3 Sharpen or replace blade Uneven cut 1 Wheels not positioned correctly 1 Place all four wheels in same height position 2 Dull blade 2 Sharpen or replace blade NOTE For repairs beyond the minor adjustments listed above contact your nearest authorized service dealer SECTION 9 PARTS LIST FOR MODEL 503 ee 25 11t tlf Equipped Model 503 a Part No Part Description jae Part No Part Descript
19. handle bracket assemblies See Figure 3 NOTE Your mower is shipped with the handle in the higher position If you wish to lower the height of the handle refer to the Adjustment Section Figure 3 e Fasten the cable to the lower handle with the cable tie found on the lower handle Pull the cable tie tight and trim off the excess See Figure 4 Handle Figure 4 e If not already move rope guide to the first hole above the lower handle on right side The wing nut loosens and secures the rope guide to handle See Figure 5 Starter Upper Handle Rope Wing Nut Handle e With the spark plug wire disconnected and grounded hold the blade control handle against the upper handle and pull the starter rope out of the engine Release the blade control handle Slip the starter rope into the rope guide Tighten wing nut Installing Front Wheels e Place the front of the mower deck on raised blocks e Remove lock nut from pivot arm assembly slide wheel onto pivot arm assembly and secure with lock nut See Figure 6 e Assemble the other side in the same manner e If your mower is equipped with hub caps place hub caps in position against the inner hub of wheel Press firmly around the center portion of the hub cap in a circular motion The hub caps are flexible and they will snap over the wheel hubs Pivot Arm Assembly Hub Cap If Equipped Figure 6 Installing Rear Wheels e Place the rear of the mower dec
20. installing the blade and the blade adapter to the unit lubricate the engine crankshaft and the inner surface of the blade adapter with light oil e Be sure to install the blade with the end tips facing up or side of the blade marked Bottom or with part number facing the ground when the mower is in the operating position e Slide the blade adapter onto the engine crankshaft e Place the blade on the adapter Be certain the blade is aligned and seated on the blade adapter flanges e Place blade bell support on blade Make sure the notches on the blade bell support are aligned with small holes in the blade e Replace hex bolt and tighten hex bolt to torque 450 in lbs min 600 in lbs max NOTE To ensure safe operation of your mower the blade bolt must be checked periodically for correct torque SECTION 8 TROUBLESHOOTING Problem Cause Remedy Engine fails to start 1 Blade control handle disengaged 1 Engage blade control handle 2 Spark plug wire disconnected 2 Connect wire to spark plug 3 Fuel tank empty or stale fuel 3 Fill tank with clean fresh gasoline 4 Blocked fuel line 4 Clean fuel line 5 Faulty spark plug 5 Clean adjust gap or replace 6 Engine flooded 6 Wait afew minutes to restart but do not prime Engine runs erratic 1 Spark plug wire loose 1 Connect and tighten spark plug wire 2 Blocked fuel line or stale fuel 2 Clean fuel line fill tank with clean fres
21. ion Ae 747 1161A Blade Control Handle 25 710 1044 Hex Cap Screw 3 8 24 x 1 5 2 749 1092A Upper Handle 26 736 0524A Blade Bell Support 3 746 0946 Blade Control Cable 48 25 27 738 1172 Shoulder Screw 3 8 16 x 302 4 710 1205 Eye Bolt 28 736 0741 Bell Washer 760 ID x 1 25 OD 5 720 0279 Wing Nut 29 734 04086 Front Wheel Assembly 7 x 1 8 6 720 0284 Wing Nut 31 720 0426 Height Adjuster Knob 7 736 0451 Shoulder Washer 320 ID x 93 OD 32 732 1026 Front Spring Lever 8 710 1174 Carriage Bolt 5 16 18 x 2 0 33 747 0710 Hinge Pin 9 725 0157 Cable Tie 34 732 1014 Torsion Spring 10 749 04037 Lower Handle 35 17032A Deflector Chute Adapter 11 731 0981At Hub Cap 36 731 1034B Side Discharge Chute Assembly 12 17098 Hinge Clip 38 710 0514 Hex Cap Screw 3 8 16 x 1 00 13 731 2537 Trail Shield 39 741 0717 Thrust Bearing 688 ID x 1 938 OD 14 682 3062A Handle Bracket Assembly RH 40 687 02080 Rear Pivot Arm Assembly RH 15 682 3063A Handle Bracket Assembly LH 687 02079 Rear Pivot Arm Assembly LH 16 736 3050 Flat Washer 406 ID x 812 OD 41 732 0984B Rear Spring Lever 17 712 0431 Lock Nut 3 8 16 42 738 1127 Shoulder Screw 3 8 16 x 442 18 710 0654A Hex Washer Screw 3 8 16 x 1 0 43 710 0599 Screw 1 4 20 x 50 19 687 02048 22 Deck Assembly 44 734 04089 Rear Wheel Assembly 12 x 1 8 20 736 0270 Bell Washer 265 x 75 46 631 04045 Snap Mulching Plug 21 741 0751 Height Adjuster Bearing 47 736 0105 Bell Washer 401 ID x 870 OD 22 687 0
22. ions and safety rules in this manual and should be trained and supervised by a parent N Service Safe Handling Of Gasoline 1 To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme care in handling gasoline Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive Serious personal injury can occur when gasoline is spilled on yourself or your clothes which can ignite Wash your skin and change clothes immediately Use only an approved gasoline container Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner Always place containers on the ground away from your vehicle before filling 5 When practical remove gas powered equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground If this is not possible then refuel such equipment on a trailer with a portable container rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle 6 Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or container opening at all times until fueling is complete Do not use a nozzle lock open device 7 Extinguish all cigarettes cigars pipes and other sources of ignition 8 Never fuel machine indoors because flammable vapors will accumulate in the area 9 Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the engine is hot or running Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before refueling 10 Never over fill fuel tank Fill tank to no more than 1 inch below bottom of filler neck to provide space for fuel expansio
23. k on raised blocks e Remove lock nut from pivot arm assembly slide wheel with hollow side in onto axle and secure with lock nut See Figure 7 e Assemble the other side in the same manner Figure 7 Removing Chute Retainer The chute deflector on your mower is held in an upright position by a retainer for shipping purposes only Remove the retainer following steps below before running the mower for the first time e Push the chute deflector up and towards the engine Holding the deflector in this position remove the retainer See Figure 8 e Lower the chute deflector carefully to its operating position keeping your fingers out of the way Raise Chute Deflector Remove Retainer Figure 8 WARNING The chute retainer must be A removed and discarded before operating the mower Installing Mulching Baffle If your mower is equipped with the optional mulching baffle install it on the right side of the deck following these instructions Make sure to follow the correct sequence as indicated here e Lift up and hold the side discharge chute deflector e Insert bottom lip of the mulching baffle inside the chute opening See Figure 9 Snap hooks of the mulching baffle over the hinge pin of the chute deflector See Figure 9 The hooks must snap into place on the hinge pin locking the mulching baffle firmly onto the mower For a close up of the hinge pin location see Figure 9 inset e Relea
24. n 11 Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely 12 If gasoline is spilled wipe it off the engine and equipment Move unit to another area Wait 5 minutes before starting the engine 13 Never store the machine or fuel container inside where there is an open flame spark or pilot light as on a water heater space heater furnace clothes dryer or other gas appliances 14 To reduce fire hazard keep mower free of grass leaves or other debris build up Clean up oil or fuel spillage and remove any fuel soaked debris 15 Allow a mower to cool at least 5 minutes before storing PON General Service 1 A NOTE Not all safety labels shown may apply to your lawn mower Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide an odorless and deadly gas Before cleaning repairing or inspecting make certain the blade and all moving parts have stopped Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground against the engine to prevent unintended starting Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at frequent intervals for proper tightness Also visually inspect blade for damage e g bent cracked worn Replace blade with the original equipment manufacture s O E M blade only listed in this manual Use of parts which do not meet the original equipment specifications may lead to improper performance and compromise safety Mower blades are sharp and can cut Wrap the blade or we
25. riod normal wear part failures will be covered ONLY IF caused by defects in materials or workmanship of OTHER component parts Normal wear parts and components include but are not limited to batteries belts blades blade adapters grass bags rider deck wheels seats snow thrower skid shoes shave plates auger spiral rubber and tires HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE Warranty service is available WITH PROOF OF PURCHASE through your local authorized service dealer To locate the dealer in your area check your Yellow Pages or contact MTD LLC at P O Box 361131 Cleveland Ohio 44136 0019 or call 1 800 800 7310 or log on to our Web site at www mtdproducts com This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the following cases a The engine or component parts thereof These items may carry a separate manufacturer s warranty Refer to applicable manufacturer s warranty for terms and conditions b Log splitter pumps valves and cylinders have a sepa rate one year warranty C Routine maintenance items such as lubricants filters blade sharpening tune ups brake adjustments clutch adjustments deck adjustments and normal deterioration of the exterior finish due to use or exposure d MTD does not extend any warranty for products sold or exported outside of the United States its possessions and territories except those sold through MTD s authorized channels of export distribution Replacement parts that are not genuine MTD p
26. rm the environment WARNING YOUR RESPONSIBILITY Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read understand and follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH KEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY FROM ROTATING FPF e REMOVE OBJECTS THAT CAN BE THROWN ASSES BLADE IN ANY DIRECTION WEAR SAFETY GL DO NOT MOW WHEN CHILDREN OR OTHERS ARE vaya USE EXTRA CAUTION ON SLOPES DO NOT MOW sO N GREATER THAN 15 MOW ACROSS NEVER UP M NEVER PULL MOWER CLOSE TO YOUR FEET LOOKS BEHIND BEFORE AND WHILE MOVING BA SLOPE GAUGE SECTION 2 Use this page as a guide to determine slopes where you may not operate safely Do not operate your lawn mower on such slopes eT SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE l gg A POWER POLE l a A CORNER OF A BUILDING 1 gg OR A FENCE POST Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees a rise of approximately 2 1 2 feet every 10 feet A riding mower could overturn and cause serious injury If operating a walk behind mower on such a slope it is extremely difficult to maintain your footing and you could slip resulting in serious injury Operate RIDING mowers up and down slopes never across the face of slopes Operate WALK BEHIND mowers across the face of slopes never up and down slopes SECTION 3 ASSEMBLING YOUR LAWN MOWER IMPORTANT This unit is shipped withou
27. se the chute deflector NOTE nstall bottom lip inside chute opening indicated by 1 in the figure below before placing hooks over the hinge pin indicated by 2 in the figure below amc Chute a Deflector W cS Lip of Muldhing Baffle install inside chute opening Figure 9 IMPORTANT This unit is shipped without gasoline or oil in the engine Be certain to service engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in the separate engine manual before operating your mower SECTION 4 KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER Read this operator s manual and safety rules before operating your lawn mower Compare the illustration in Figure 10 with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments Save this manual for future reference WARNING The operation of any lawn A mower can result in foreign objects being thrown into the eyes which can damage your eyes severely Always wear safety glasses while operating the mower or while performing any adjustments or repairs on it Recoil Starter The recoil starter is attached to the right lower handle Stand behind the unit and pull the recoil starter to start the unit See Figure 10 Blade Control Handle The blade control handle is located on the upper handle of the mower The blade control handle must be depressed in order to operate the unit Release blade control handle to stop engine and blade WA
28. t gasoline or oil in the engine Be certain to service engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in the separate engine manual before operating your mower NOTE Reference to right or left hand side of the mower is observed from the operating position Removing Unit From Carton Remove staples break glue on top flaps or cut tape at carton end and peel along top flap to open carton e Remove loose parts if included with unit i e operator s manual etc e Cutalong corners lay carton down flat and remove packing material e Roll or slide unit out of carton and check carton thoroughly for loose parts Disconnecting Spark Plug Wire Before setting up your lawn mower disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug See Figure 1 Spark Plug Spark Plug Spark Plug Spark Plug Figure 1 Setting Up Your Lawn Mower e Raise the lower handle as shown in Figure 2 Step1 until it snaps into place Lift up and pull back on the upper handle to raise the handle into the operating position Step 2 See Figure 2 Make certain the lower handle is seated securely into the handle bracket assemblies 2 Lift upper handle 1 Lift lower handle ma Figure 2 e Tosecure the upper and lower handle tighten the wing nuts near the top of lower handle carriage bolts must be seated properly into the handle Tighten the wing nuts at the end of the lower handle to secure the handle to
29. will void engine warranty e Periodically check all fasteners and make sure these are tight e Some adjustments will have to be made periodically to maintain your unit properly All adjustments in the Making Adjustments section of this manual should be checked at least once each season e Follow the maintenance schedule under Customer Responsibilities to get quality performance from your lawn mower Lubrication 1 WARNING Always stop engine and disconnect spark plug wire before cleaning lubricating or doing any kind of service work on the lawn mower Blade Control Handle Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control handle at least once a season with light oil The blade control must operate freely in both directions See Figure 13 Wheels Lubricate the wheels at least once a season with light oil or motor oil If the wheels are removed for any reason lubricate the surface of the pivot arm and inner surface of the wheel with light oil Chute Deflector or Mulching Baffle Lubricate the torsion spring and pivot point periodically with light oil to prevent any rust or binding Engine Follow the separate engine manual packed with you unit for lubrication instructions Lubricate Lubricate Figure 13 Maintenance NOTE When tipping the unit or emptying the fuel tank keep the air cleaner side of engine up Never tip the mower more than 90 degrees and do not leave the mower tipped for any
30. you must back the mower away from a wall or obstruction first look down and behind to avoid tripping and then follow these steps a Step back from the mower to fully extend your arms b Be sure you are well balanced with sure footing c Pull the mower back slowly no more than half way toward you d Repeat these steps as needed Do not operate the mower while under the influence of alcohol or drugs Do not engage the self propelled mechanism on units so equipped while starting engine The blade control handle is a safety device Never attempt to bypass its operation Doing so makes the safety device inoperative and may result in personal injury through contact with the rotating blade The blade control handle must operate easily in both directions and automatically return to the disengaged position when released Never operate the mower in wet grass Always be sure of your footing A slip and fall can cause serious personal injury If you feel you are losing your footing release the blade control handle immediately and the blade will stop rotating within three seconds Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light Walk never run Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives walks or roads 18 Ifthe equipment should start to vibrate abnormally stop the engine and check immediately for the cause Vibration is generally a warning of trouble 19 Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes to a complete stop before removing
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