MTD 11A 543B700 User Manual LAWN MOWER Manuals And Guides 1107394L

User Manual: MTD 11A-543B700 11A-543B700 MTD LAWN MOWER - Manuals and Guides View the owners manual for your MTD LAWN MOWER #11A543B700. Home:Lawn & Garden Parts:MTD Parts:MTD LAWN MOWER Manual

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Safety • Assembly • Operation • Tips & Techniques • Maintenance • Troubleshooting • Parts Lists • Warranty

21" Hi=Wheel Mower-

Model Series 540

iMPORTANT
READ SAFETY

RULES AND iNSTRUCTiONS

CAREFULLY

BEFORE

OPERATION

Warning: This unit is equippedwith an internalcombustionengineand shouldnot be usedon or nearany unimprovedforest-covered,brushcoveredor grass-coveredland unlesstheengine'sexhaustsystemis equippedwith a sparkarrestermeetingapplicablelocalor statelaws(if any).
If a sparkarresteris used,it shouldbe maintainedin effectiveworkingorder by the operator.In theState of Californiathe aboveis requiredbylaw
(Section4442 of the CaliforniaPublicResourcesCode). Otherstatesmay havesimilarlaws.Federallaws applyon federallands.A sparkarrester
for the muffleris availablethroughyour nearestengineauthorizedservicedealeror contactthe servicedepartment,RO. Box361131Cleveland,
Ohio 44136-0019.

PRINTEDIN U.S.A.

MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND,

OHIO 44136-0019

FORMNO. 769-00447E
3/17/2006

This Operator's Manual is an important part of your new lawn mower, it will help you assemble,
prepare and maintain the unit for best performance.
Please read and understand what it says.

Table of Contents
Customer Support ..............................................
Slope Guage ........................................................
Safe Operation Practices ...................................
Setup And Adjustment .......................................
Operating Your Lawn Mower ..............................

2
3
4
6
8

Maintaining Your Lawn Mower .........................
Troubleshooting ................................................
Safety Labels ....................................................
Parts List ...........................................................
Warranty ............................................

10
12
13
14

Back Cover

Finding and Recording Model Number
f

BEFOREASSEMBLINGYOUR NEW EQUIPMENT,
please locate the model plate on the equipment and copy
the informationto the sample model plate provided to the
right. You can locate the model plate by standing at the
operating position and looking down at the rear of the
deck. This informationwill be necessary when using the
manufacturer's web site, to obtain assistance from the
Customer Support Department, or when contacting an
authorized service dealer.

Model Number

Serial Number

MTD LLC

www.mtdproducts,com

P.O. BOX
361131
CLEVELAND, OH 44136
330
-220
-4683
800-800-731
0

Customer Support
Please

do NOTreturn

purchased,

the unit to the retailer from

without

first contacting

Customer

which it was
Support.

If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation, or maintenanceof this
unit, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:
1. Visit mtdproducts.com.
MTD Intem_fic_al

Click on the Service & Support menu option.
Award

Wi_n i_

IProd_cf_

Compe_y

ct L&
Ser,#ice
Product

_ri'_,ocy Polly

8,_Suppe_
Registration

2. Phone a Customer Support Representative at 1 (800) 800-7310.
3. 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, packedseparately with
your unit, for more information.

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WARNING: Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to State of Californiato cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductiveharm.
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 part of the operator can
result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects.
Failureto observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

Children

WARNING
This symbol points
out importantsafety
instructionswhich, if
not followed,could
endangerthe personal
i safety and/or property
I ofyourselfand others.
Read and follow all
instructionsin this
manual beforeattemptingto operate
i this machine. Failure
I to comply with these
instructionsmay result
i in personalinjury.When
you see this symbol.
i HEED ITS WARNING!

Your Responsibility
Restrictthe use
of this power machine
to personswho read,
_ understand
ano follow the warnings
and instructions
in this manual
and on the machine.

Tragicaccidentscan occur if operatoris not alert to presence
of children.Childrenare oftenattractedto mowerand mowing
activity.Theydo not understandthe dangers.Neverassume
thatchildrenwill remainwhereyou lastsawthem.
1. Keepchildrenout of the mowingareaand underwatchful
careof a responsibleadultotherthanthe operator.
2. Be alert andturn moweroff if a childentersthe area.
3. Beforeand whilemovingbackwards,look behindanddown
forsmallchildren.
4. Useextremecare when approachingblind corners,
doorways,shrubs,trees,or otherobjectsthat may obscure
yourvisionof a child whomay run intothe mower.
5. Keepchildrenawayfrom hot or runningengines.Theycan
sufferburnsfrom a hot muffler.
6. Neverallowchildrenunder14 yearsoldto operatea power
mower.Children14 yearsoldand overshouldreadand
understandoperationinstructionsandsafetyrulesinthis
manualandshouldbe trainedandsupervisedbya parent.

General

Operation

1. Readthis operator'smanualcarefullyin its entiretybefore
attemptingto assemblethis machine.Read,understand,
andfollowall instructionson the machineandin the
manual(s)beforeoperation.Be completelyfamiliar with
the controls andthe proper useof this machinebefore
operatingit. Keepthis manualin a safe place forfuture
and regularreferenceand for orderingreplacementparts.
2. This machineis a precision pieceof powerequipment,
not a plaything.Therefore,exerciseextremecautionat all
times.Yourunit has beendesignedto performonejob: to
mowgrass. Do not use it for any otherpurpose.
3. Neverallow childrenunder 14yearsold to operatethis
machine.Children 14yearsold and overshould readand
understandthe instructionsinthis manualandshould
be trainedand supervisedby a parent.Onlyresponsible
individualswho arefamiliar withthese rulesof safe
operationshould be allowedto usethis machine.
4. Thoroughlyinspectthe area wherethe equipmentis to
be used. Removeall stones,sticks,wire, bones,toys
andotherforeignobjects, whichcould be trippedover or
picked up andthrown bythe blade.Thrownobjects can
causeseriouspersonalinjury.Plan your mowingpattern
to avoid dischargeof materialtoward roads,sidewalks,
bystandersandthe like.Also,avoid dischargingmaterial
againsta wall or obstruction,whichmay causedischarged
materialto ricochetback towardthe operator.
5. Tohelp avoid bladecontact or a thrown objectinjury,
stay inoperatorzone behindhandlesand keepchildren,
bystanders,helpersand pets at least 75 feetfrom mower
whileit is inoperation.Stop machineif anyoneenters
area.

6. Alwayswearsafetyglasses or safetygogglesduringoperation andwhile performingan adjustmentor repairto protect
youreyes. Thrownobjectswhich ricochetcan causeserious
injury to the eyes.
7. Wearsturdy, rough-soledworkshoesand close-fitting
slacksandshirts. Shirtsand pantsthatcoverthe arms and
legs andsteel-toedshoesare recommended.Neveroperate
this machinein bare feet,sandals, slipperyor light-weight
(e.g. canvas)shoes.
8. Do not put hands or feet near rotatingparts or undercutting
deck. Contactwithblade can amputatehands andfeet.
9. A missingor damageddischargecovercan cause blade
contactor thrownobject injuries.
10. Manyinjuriesoccuras a resultof the mowerbeing pulled
overthe foot duringa fall causedby slippingor tripping.
Do not hold on to the mower if you are falling; releasethe
handle immediately.
11. Neverpullthe mowerback towardyou whileyou are
walking.If you must backthe mowerawayfrom a wall or
obstructionfirst look down and behindto avoid trippingand
thenfollowthese steps:
a. Stepback from mowerto fully extend yourarms.
b. Be sure youare well balancedwithsurefooting.
c. Pullthe mowerback slowly,no morethan half way
toward you.
d. Repeatthesesteps as needed.
12. Do not operatethe mowerwhileunderthe influenceof
alcoholor drugs.
13. Do not engagethe self-propelledmechanismon unitsso
equippedwhilestartingengine.
14. The bladecontrol handle is a safetydevice.Neverattempt
to bypassits operation.Doingso makesthe safetydevice
inoperativeandmay result in personalinjurythrough
contactwiththe rotatingblade. The bladecontrol handle
mustoperateeasily in bothdirectionsandautomatically
returnto the disengagedpositionwhen released.
15. Neveroperate the mowerinwet grass. Alwaysbe sure of
yourfooting. A slip and fall can causeseriouspersonal
injury.If you feel you are losing yourfooting,releasethe
bladecontrol handle immediatelyand the bladewill stop
rotatingwithinthreeseconds.
16. Mowonly in daylightor good artificial light. Walk,never run.
17. Stopthe bladewhen crossinggraveldrives, walksor roads.
18. If the equipmentshouldstartto vibrateabnormally,stop the
engineand check immediatelyfor the cause.Vibrationis
generallya warningof trouble.

19.Shut the engine off andwait untilthe bladecomesto a
completestop before removingthe grasscatcheror unclogging the chute.
The cuttingbladecontinuesto rotatefor a fewseconds after
the engine is shut off. Neverplaceany part of the bodyin
the bladearea untilyou are surethe blade hasstopped
rotating.
20. Neveroperate mowerwithoutpropertrail shield, discharge
cover,grass catcher,bladecontrol handleor othersafety
protectivedevices in placeand working.Neveroperate
mowerwithdamagedsafetydevices.Failureto do so can
resultin personalinjury.
21. Mufflerandengine becomehot andcan causea burn.Do
not touch.

7. Extinguishall cigarettes,cigars, pipesand othersources
of ignition.
8. Neverfuel machineindoorbecauseflammablevapors will
accumulatein the area.
9. Neverremovegas cap or add fuel whileengine is hot or
running. Allow engineto cool at least two minutesbefore
refueling.
10. Neveroverfill fuel tank. Filltank to no morethan Y2inch
below bottomof filler neckto providefor fuel expansion.
11. Replacegasoline cap andtighten securely.
12. If gasolineis spilled,wipe it off the engine and equipment.
Moveunit to another area.Wait 5 minutesbeforestarting
engine.
13. Neverstorethe machineor fuel containernear an open
flame,sparkor pilot light as on a water heater,space
heater,furnace, clothesdryeror othergas appliances.
14. Toreducefire hazard,keepmowerfree of grass, leaves,
or other debrisbuild-up.Clean up oil or fuel spillage and
removeany fuel soakeddebris.
15. Allow a mowerto cool at least5 minutesbeforestoring.

22. Only use parts and accessoriesmadefor this machineby
manufacturer.Failureto do so can result inpersonalinjury.
23. If situationsoccurwhich are not coveredin this manual,
use careand goodjudgment. Contactyourdealerfor
assistance.Telephone1-800-800-7310for the name of your
nearestdealer.

Operation

General Service:

Slope Operation

1. Neverrun an engine indoorsor in a poorlyventilatedarea.
Engineexhaustcontainscarbonmonoxide,an odorlessand
deadlygas.
2. Beforecleaning,repairing,or inspecting,makecertainthe
bladeandall movingparts havestopped.Disconnectthe
sparkplug wire andgroundagainstthe engineto prevent
unintendedstarting.
3. Checkthe bladeandengine mountingbolts atfrequent
intervalsfor propertightness.Also,visuallyinspectbladefor
damage(e.g.,bent,cracked,worn) Replacebladewiththe
originalequipmentmanufacture's(O.E.M.)bladeonly,listed
inthis manual."Use of partswhichdo not meetthe original
equipmentspecificationsmay leadto improperperformance
andcompromisesafety!"
4. Mowerbladesare sharp andcan cut.Wrap the bladeor wear
gloves,anduse extracautionwhen servicingthem.
5. Keepall nuts,bolts, andscrewstight to be surethe equipmentis insafe workingcondition.
6. Nevertamperwithsafetydevices.Checktheir proper operation regularly.
7. Afterstrikinga foreignobject,stop the engine,disconnect the sparkplug wire andgroundagainstthe engine.
Thoroughlyinspectthe mowerfor any damage.Repairthe
damagebeforestartingandoperatingthe mower.
8. Neverattemptto makea wheel or cuttingheightadjustment
whilethe engine is running.
9. Grasscatchercomponents,dischargecover,andtrail
shield aresubjectto wear anddamagewhichcould expose
movingparts or allowobjectsto be thrown.For safety
protection,frequentlycheck componentsandreplaceimmediatelywithoriginal equipmentmanufacturer's(O.E.M.)
parts only,listed inthis manual."Use of parts which do
not meetthe original equipmentspecificationsmaylead to
improperperformanceandcompromisesafety!"
10. Do not changethe enginegovernorsettingor over-revthe
engine.The governorcontrolsthe maximumsafe operating
speedof the engine.
11. Maintainor replacesafetylabels,as necessary.
12. Observeproperdisposallawsand regulations.Improper
disposalof fluidsand materialscan harmthe environment.

Slopesare a majorfactor relatedto slip andfallaccidents,which
can resultinsevereinjury.Operationon slopes requiresextra
caution.If you feel uneasyon a slope,do not mow it.For your
safety,usethe slope gaugeincludedas part of this manualto
measureslopes beforeoperatingthis unit on a slopedor hilly
area.If the slope is greaterthan 15degrees,do not mowit.

Do:
1. Mowacrossthe face of slopes;neverup anddown.Exercise
extremecautionwhenchangingdirectionon slopes.
2. Watchfor holes,ruts,rocks, hiddenobjects,or bumpswhich
can causeyouto slip or trip. Tallgrass can hide obstacles.
3. Alwaysbe sure of yourfooting.A slip andfall can cause
serious personalinjury.If you feel you are losingyour
balance,releasethe bladecontrol handle immediately,and
the bladewill stop rotatingwithin 3 seconds.

Do Not:
1. Donot mownear drop-offs, ditchesor embankments,you
could loseyour footing or balance.
2. Donot mowslopes greaterthan 15degrees asshown on
the slope gauge.
3. Donot mowon wetgrass. Unstablefooting could cause
slipping.

Service
Safe Handling Of Gasoline:
1. To avoid personalinjury or propertydamage useextreme
care inhandlinggasoline. Gasolineis extremelyflammable
and the vapors are explosive.Serious personalinjury can
occur when gasolineis spilled on yourself or your clothes,
which can ignite.
2. Wash yourskin andchangeclothesimmediately.
3. Useonly an approvedgasolinecontainer.
4. Neverfill containers insidea vehicle or on a truckor trailer
bedwitha plasticliner.Alwaysplace containerson the
ground awayfrom yourvehicle beforefilling.
5. Removegas-poweredequipmentfromthe truck or trailer
and refuel it on the ground.If this is not possible,then refuel
such equipmenton a trailer witha portablecontainer,rather
than from a gasoline dispensernozzle.
6. Keepthe nozzlein contactwiththe rim of the fuel tank or
container openingat all times until fuelingis complete.Do
not use a nozzle lock-opendevice.

WARNING
This symbol points
out important safety
instructions, which if
not followed, could
endangerthe personal
safety and/or property
of yourselfand others.
Read and follow all
instructions in this manual before attempting to
operate this machine.
Failureto comply with
these instructions may
result in personal injury.
When you see this
symbol.
HEED

IT'S WARNING!

Your Responsibility
Restrictthe use
of this power machine
to persons who read.
understand
and follow the warnings
and instructions
in this manua
and on the machine.

1. Removeanypackingmaterialwhich may be between
upperand lowerhandles.
a. Pull up and backon upperhandleas shownin
Figure3-1.Makecertain the lowerhandleis seated
securelyintothe handle mountingbrackets.Donot
crimpcablewhile liftingthe handleup.
b. Tightenstar knobsto secureupper handleto
lowerhandle.Make surethat eachcarriagebolt is
seatedproperlyin the handle.
c. Placea blockunderthemowerdeck to raisethe
unitoff of thegroundand removethe flangelock
nutfromthe axle.Installrearwheeland replaceand
tightentheflangelocknut. Repeaton the otherside.
2. Locatethe hairpinclipon the weldpin on eachsideof
lowerhandle.
a.

Standbehindthe
moweras ifyouwere
goingtooperateit.
Yourrighthandcorresponds
totheright
sideofthemower;your
lefthandcorresponds
totheleftsideofthe

Figure3-1: Unfoldhandle,tightenhardwareandattachwheel.

Hardware Pack

Wing Nuts (2)

Removehairpinclipfrom this hole.Usinga pair
of pliers,insert hairpinclip intothe holeon pin
closestto the bracket,Figure3-2. Repeaton other
side.

b. Inserta carriagebolt fromthe hardwarepack into
the upperhole on the handle mountingbracket.
Securewith one plasticwing nut,also included
in the hardwarepack.Repeaton other sidewith
remainingitemsfrom hardwarepack.

Carriage Bolts (2)

mower.

The ropeguide is attachedto the right sideof the
upperhandle,Figure3-3. Loosenthe wing nutwhich
securesthe rope guide.
a. Holdblade controlhandleagainstupper handle.
b. Pull starterropeout of the engine.Releaseblade
controlhandle.
c. Slip starterrope into ropeguide.

I Make sure to route
i cable outside the lower
handle. Do not crimp
cable while lifting the
handle up.

d. Tightenwingnut.
.

Figure3-2:Securelowerhandleto mountingbrackets.

Insertpost on cable ties intoholes providedon the
lowerhandle.Pull cableties tight and trim excess,
Figure3-4.

IMPORTANT
i This unit is shipped
without gasoline or
oil in the engine. Fill
up gasoline and oil
as instructed in the
accompanying engine
i manual BEFORE
operating your mower.

\
Figure3-4:Securecablesto handleusingcableties.

Figure3-3: Pullrecoilstarterthrough ropeguide andtighten.

5. Followstepsbelowto assemblethe grasscatcher.
Makecertainbag is turned rightsideout before
assembling(warninglabelwill be on the outside)

7. Yourmoweris shippedas a mulcher.Toconvertto
sidedischarge,makesuregrass catcherisoff of the
unitand reardischargedoor isclosed.

a. Placebag overframe sothat its black plasticside
is at the bottom.

a. On the sideof the mower,lift the mulchingplug,
Figure3-7.

b. Slip plasticchannelof grass bagoverhooks on the
frame,Figure3-5.All the plasticchannelsexcept
centertop of bag attachfrom outsideof bag.

b. Slide two hooksof side dischargechute under
hinge pin on mulchingplug assembly.Lowerthe
mulchingplug. Do not removesidemulchingplug
at anytime,evenwhenyou are not mulching.

c. Attachcentertop of bag from insideof bag.

Adjustment

Figure3-7:Liftmulchplugandinstallsidedischarge
chute.

'_
Figure3-5:Assemble
thegrasscatcher.

Adjustments

6. Followthe stepsbelowto attachthe grasscatcher:
a. Lift rear dischargedoor,Figure3-6.

An adjustingplateand thumbleverat eachwheel
providescuttingheightadjustment.

b. Placegrass catcheron thepivot rod. Letgo
of dischargedoor sothat it restson thegrass
catcher.

1. Depresslevertowardswheel.

When adjustingthe
cutting height, all wheels
must be positioned at
the same heighL

2. Moveitto any one of the positionsfor desiredcutting
height,Figure3-8. Makesurethat eachwheelis
positionedat the sameheight.

WARNING:Never operate mower unless the
hookson the grass catcherare firmly seated
on the pivotrod and the rear dischargedoor rests
firmly against top of the grass catcher.

3. Releaselevertowardsmowerdeck.

WARNING
Neveroperate mower

w thoot
them,,o, og
plug, the grass catcher,
or the discharge chute
properly installed'

j'i

Figure3-6:Attachthegrasscatcher.

Figure3-8:Useleversto adjustcuttingheight.

Know Your Lawn Mower
f

BladeControl

Recoil Starter =====_,

Mower

GrassCatcher_

WARNING
The blade control is a
MulchPlug --

safety device. Never
attempt to bypass its
operations.
Side Discharge Chute

_,.__

i Use extreme care when
; handling gasoline.
Gasoline is extremely
flammable and the
vapors are explosive.
Neverfuel the machine
i indoors or while the
; engine is hot or running.
; Exhngwsh c_garettes,
cigars, pipes, and other
sources of ignition.

Figure4-1:The majorparts on the lawnmower.
Now that you have set up your lawn mower for
operation, read this section to become acquainted
with its controls and features. This knowledge will
allow you to use your new equipment to its fullest
potential.

Mulch

Blade Control

Grass Catcher

The blade control is attached to the upper handle.
Depress and squeeze it against the upper handle
to operate the unit. Release it to stop engine and
blade.

The grass catcher, located at the rear of the mower,
is used to bag the grass clippings for disposal at another site. Once the bag is full, it has to be removed
from the mower and emptied before any further
mowing.

Keep hands and feet
away from the cutting
deck. Refer to warning
label on the unit.

_1_11=WARNING:This blade controlis a safety
device.Do not bypass its operations.

Cutting

Height Adjustment

Plug

The mulch plug is used for mulching purposes.
Instead of collecting the grass clippings in a grass
catcher or using the side discharge chute, some
mower models have the option of recirculating the
clippings back to the lawn. This is called mulching.

Gas and Oil Fill-Up
1. Check oil level and add oil if necessary. Follow engine
owner's manual for this.

Levers

One adjustment lever is located on each wheel and
is used to adjust the cutting height. All four wheels
must be at the same position to ensure a uniform
cut.

2. Servicethe enginewith gasolineas instructedin the
engineowner'smanual.
_b

ARNING:Useextremecarewhen handling
gasoline.Gasolineis extremelyflammable
and the vapors are explosive. Never fuel the machine
indoorsor while the engineis hot or running.Extinguish cigarettes,cigars, pipes,and other sourcesof
ignition.

Recoil Starter
The recoil starter is attached to the right upper
handle. Stand behind the unit and pull the recoil
starter rope to start the unit.

mowercan
result
in foreign objects
being
ARNING:The
operationof
any lawn
thrownintothe eyeswhichcan damage
youreyes severely.Alwayswear safetyglasses
whileoperatingthe moweror while performingany
adjustmentsor repairson it.
_

Starting

Engine

You r LaWn

operatoris
standingnear
lawn mower
WARNING:Be
sure no onethe
otherthan
the
whilestartingengineor operatingmower.
Never runengineindoorsor in enclosed,poorly
ventilatedareas. Engineexhaustcontainscarbon
monoxide, an odorlessand deadly gas. Keephands,
feet, hairand looseclothingawayfrom any moving
parts on engine and lawnmower.

Mow

,4_i_

Figure4-2:Startingthe mower.

NOTE: Refer to the enginemanual for help with
enginerelatedoperations.

stop
the engine.Removewire
from
the
ARNING:if
you strike a foreign
object,
spark plug,thoroughly inspectmower
for any damage, and repair damage before restartingand operating. Extensive vibration of mower
during operation is an indicationof damage.The
2. Standingbehindthe mower,squeezethe bladecontrol unit should be promptlyinspectedand repaired.
againstupper handle.See Figure4-2.
1. Pushprimerthreetimes.Wait abouttwo seconds
betweeneachpush. See Figure4-2. In temperature
around550F or below,primefive times.Do not prime
to restarta warm engine.

3. Holdingthesetwo handlestogetherfirmly,grasp recoil 1. Oncethe engineis running,squeezethe blade
controlagainstthe upperhandleto engagethe
starterhandleand pull ropeout with a rapid,continublade.
ous, full arm stroke.See Figure4-2. Keepinga firm
grip on the starterhandle,let the rope rewindslowly.
• Forbest results,do notcut wet grassand never
Repeatuntil enginecranks.Letthe roperewindeach
cut off morethanone-thirdof the total lengthof the
time slowly.
grass.

Stopping

Engine

Using

1. Releasebladecontrol to stop theengineand blade.
2. Disconnectsparkplug wirefrom spark plug and
groundagainstthe engine.

Foreffectivemulching,do notcut wet grass.New
or thick grass may requirea narrowercut. Adjust
groundspeedaccordingto conditionof lawn.

completely
before
work
ARNING:Wait
forperformingany
the blade to stop
on the mower or to removethe grass
catcher.

UsingYour

• If thegrass has beenallowedto growinexcessof
fourinches,mulchingis not recommended.Use the
grasscatcherto bag clippingsinstead.

Lawn Mower

Using
,__
__

as Mulcher

Formulchinggrass,removethe grasscatcheror side
dischargechutefrom the mower.The reardischarge
door shouldbe closed.

Grass Catcher

Youcan usethe grass catcherto collectclippingswhile
youare operatingthe mower.

without eitherthe rear door or the entire
WARNING:Never operate your mower
grasscatcher assembly firmly secured.

Be surelawnis clearof stones,sticks,wire,or other
objectswhich coulddamagelawnmoweror engine.
Such objectscouldbe accidentlythrownby the mower
in anydirectionand cause seriouspersonalinjuryto the
operatorand others.

Attachgrasscatcherfollowinginstructionsin Setup
section.Grassclippingswillautomaticallycollectin
bag as you run mower.Operatemowertill grass bag
is full.

2. Stopenginecompletelyby releasingthe blade
control.Makesurethat the unithas cometo a
completestop.
3. Lift dischargedoor and pull grassbag up and away
fromthe mowerto removethe bag.Disposeof the
grassclippingsand reinstallthe bag whencomplete.

WARNING
The operation of any
lawn 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.
Be sure no one other
than the operator is
standing near the
lawn mower while
starting engine or
operating mower. Never
run engine indoors or
in enclosed, poorly
ventilated areas. Engine
exhaust contains carbon
monoxide, an odorless
and deadly gas. Keep
hands, feet, hair and
loose clothing away
from any moving parts
on engine and lawn
mower ....

Deck Care
Cleanundersideof the mowerdeck after eachuse to
preventbuild-upof grass clippingsor otherdebris. Follow
stepsbelowfor this job.
1. Disconnectsparkplug wire. Draingasolinefrom lawn
moweror placea pieceof plasticunderthegas cap.

Lubricate these
q

points before
reassembly.

2. Tip mowersothat itrestson the housing.Keepthe
sidewith the air cleanerfacingup. Hold mowerfirmly.
than
90° in any direction
do not
WARNING:Never
tip the and
mower
more
leavethe mower tipped for any length of
time. Oil can drain intothe upper part of the engine
causing a starting problem.
,_

3. Scrapeand clean the undersideof the deck with a
suitabletool. Do notspraywith water.
4. Putthe mowerback on itswheelson the ground.If
youhad put plasticunderthe gas capearlier,make
sureto removeitnow.

Figure5-1:Areasto lubricateon mower.

General

A vays

Alwaysobservesafetyruleswhen performing
anymaintenance.

•

Thewarrantyon this lawnmowerdoesnot cover
itemsthat havebeen subjectedto operatorabuse
or negligence.To receivefull valuefromwarranty,
operatormustmaintainthelawn moweras
instructed
here.

disconnect
spark
plugl and ground

against
en- ne
before
performing any type

iii

Engine

•

Serviceair cleanerevery25 hoursundernormal
conditions.Cleaneveryfew hoursunderextremely
dustyconditions.Poor engineperformanceand
floodingusuallyindicatesthat the air cleanershould
be serviced.Toservicethe air cleaner,referto the
enginemanual.
Cleansparkplug and resetthegap once a season.
Sparkplug replacementis recommendedat the start
of eachmowingseason.Checkenginemanualfor
correctplugtype and gap specifications.

Changingof engine-governedspeedwill void
enginewarranty.

•

All adjustmentsshouldbe checkedat leastonce
eachseason.

•

Periodicallycheckall fastenersand makesurethese •
are tight.

_kl=

nect spark plug, and groundagainst
ARNING:Alwaysstop engine,disconengine before performingany type of
maintenance on your machine.

•

Lubrication
Do not usea pressure
WaSheror garden
hose to clean your
uniLThese may cause
damage to electriC

componentS;
s indlesl
pulleys; bearings,or
the engine:The use
of water will resut in
shortened lifeand

reduce serviceability:

Care

A list of key enginemaintenancejobs requiredfor good
performanceby the moweris given below.Followthe
accompanyingengine manualfor a detailedlist and
instructions.
• Maintainoil levelas instructedin enginemanual.

•

ofmaintenanceon
your macNnel

Recommendations

•

1. Lubricatepivot pointson theblade controlat least
oncea seasonwith lightoil. The bladecontrol must
operatefreely inboth directions,Figure5-1.
2. Lubricatethe wheelsat least oncea seasonwith
lightoil (or motoroil). If wheelsare removedfor any
reason,lubricatesurfaceof the pivotarm and inner
surfaceof thewheelwith light oil, Figure5-1.
3. Lubricatethe torsionspringand pivot pointon the
rear dischargedoor and side mulchplug periodically
with lightoil to preventrust,Figure5-1.
4. Followtheaccompanyingengine manualfor lubrication scheduleand instructionfor engine lubrication.

Cleanengineregularlywith a cloth or brush. Keepthe
coolingsystem(blowerhousingarea) cleanto permit
properair circulation.Removeall grass,dirt, and
combustibledebrisfrom mufflerarea.

Blade Care
bladefor sharpeningor replacement,
ARNING:Whenremovingthe cutting
protectyourhandswith a pairof heavy
gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the
blade.

Periodicallyinspectthe bladeadapterfor cracks,
especiallyif youstrikea foreignobject. Replacewhen
necessary.Followthe stepsbelowfor blade service.
1. Disconnectsparkplug wirefrom spark plug.Turn
moweron itsside makingsurethat the air filter and
the carburetorare facing up.

Your LaWn
MoWer

2. Removethe boltand the bladebell supportwhich
hold the bladeand the bladeadapterto the engine
crankshaft,Figure5-2.

Blade Bell Support /

_,_

Bolt

.........................

3. Removebladeand adapterfromthe crankshaft,
Figure5-2.

Figure5-2:Remove
thebolt,support,andadaptertoaccess
4. The bladecan be sharpenedwith a fileor on a grind- theblade.
ingwheel.Do notattemptto sharpenthe blade whileit
is still on the mower.

WARNING

Whensharpeningthe blade,followthe originalangle
of grind. Grindeachcuttingedge equallyto keepthe
blade balanced.

When removing
the cutting blade
for sharpening or
replacement, protect
your hands with a pair
of heavy gloves or use
a heavy rag to hold
the blade.

5. Totest for balance,removebladeand balanceon
a roundshaftscrewdriver.Removemetalfrom the
heavy sideuntil itbalancesevenly.

cause excessive vibration when rotating
ARNING:An unbalanced bladewill
at high speeds. It may cause damage to
mower and could break causing personal
injury.

6. Lubricatetheenginecrankshaftand the inner surface
of the blade adapterwith lightoil. Slide the blade
adapteronto the enginecrankshaft.
7. Placethe bladeon the adaptersuch that the side
of the blade marked"Bottom"(or with part number)
facesthe groundwhenthe mowerisin theoperating
position.Makesurethat the blade isalignedand
seatedon the bladeadapterflanges.
8. Placeblade bell supporton the blade.Align notches
on the bladebell supportwith smallholesin blade.
9. Replacehex boltand tightenhex boltto torque:450
in.Ibs. rain.,600 in.Ibs.max.

Figure5-3:Cut wireto removerearflap.

Off-Season

• Do not usea pressurewasheror garden hoseto
cleanyourunit.

Toensuresafe operationof yourmower,periodically
checkthe blade boltfor correcttorque.

Replacing

Referto engine manualforcorrectengine
storageinstructions.
Coat mower'scuttingblade with chassisgreaseto
preventrusting.

Rear Flap

1. To removerear flap, cut off theflat end of the wirerod
which securesitto thedeck, Figure5-3.
2. Attachthe newflap and new rodto deck,bendingthe
ends of the newrod overto secureto deck.

Storage

Thefollowingstepsshouldbe takento prepareyour
lawnmowerfor storage.
• Cleanand lubricatemowerthoroughlyas described
inthe lubricationinstructions.

Storemowerin a dry, cleanarea. Donot storenext
to corrosivematerials,suchas fertilizer.
Whenstoringanytype of powerequipmentin a poorly
ventilatedor metal storageshed, careshouldbe taken
to rust-prooftheequipment.Usinga lightoil or silicone,
coat theequipment,especiallycablesand all moving
parts of yourlawnmowerbeforestorage.

An unbalanced blade
will cause excessive
vibration when rotat=
ing at high speeds, it
may cause damage
to mower and could
break causing personal injury.

Problem

Cause

Engine fails to Start

ade controldisengagedl
21 spark plug Wire disconnected•
31 Fueltank empty OrStalefuel•
4. Enginenot pr reed.

5: Faultyspark pug
6.
BloCkedfuel linel
7: Engineflooded.

Enginerunserratic

1. Sparkplug wire loose.
2. Blockedfuel lineor stale fuel.
3.
4.
5.
6.

1. Adjust gapto .030-inch.
2. Referto engine manual.

Idles poorly

1. Sparkplug fouled, faulty or gaptoo wide.

1. Resetgapto .030-inchor replace
spark pug.
2. Referto engine manual•
3. Referto engine manual•

Uneven cut

2 Carburetorimproperlyadjusted
3. Dirtyair cleaner•

i_ i_ _i!: _

i ii _ii__ii_
I

1. Fillcrankcasewith proper oil.
I 2 Removebower housng and c ean
3• Referto engne manua.

1. Cuttingbladeloose or unbalanced.

1. Tighten bladeandadapter.Balance
blade.

2. Bentcutting blade.

2. See an authorizedservicedealer.

1 Wetgrass•

1. Donot mowwhen grass is wet wait

2. Excessivelyhigh grass.

until laterto cut.
2. Mowonce at a high cutting height,
then mowagainat desirecJheight or

3• Du bade.
1. Wheelsnot positionedcorrectly.
2. Dull blade.

5. Referto engine manual.
6. Referto engine manual.

1. Sparkplug gap too close.
2. Carburetoridlemixtureadjustment
improperlyset.

i ¸

1. Connect andtighten sparkplug wire.
2. Clean fuel line; fill tank withclean,
fresh gasoline.
3. Clear vent.
4. Drainfuel tank. Refillwithfresh fuel.

Occasional skips
(hesitates) at high speed

Mower will not mulch grass

i i

ingyour Lawn Mowei!I,
5, Clean, adjustgap, or replace.
6,
cieanfueliinel
7: Wait afew minutesto restart,but do
I
netprime:

1 Engineoil levellow.
2....A r fow restr cted
3. Carburetornot adjustedpropery.

Excessive Vibration
ii _ _ i _

b!adecontro!,
connect wire to spark p!ug•
Ell!tank With clean,!resh gasoline•
Primeengine as instructedin 'fOperat,

Engine overheats

_iiii _

Ventingas cap plugged.
Wateror dirt infuel system.
Dirtyair cleaner.
Carburetorout of adjustment.

Remedy

iiiii_

I
makea narrowerCuttingpath.
, 3• Sharpenor replaceblade•
1. Placeall four wheelsin same
heightposition.
2. Sharpenor replaceblade.

WARNING
DO NOT remove safety
(or any)labels from
mower for any reason:

ii i _iI_ ii

747-1161A

Blade Control

732-0404

FrontSpring Lever

749-1092A

UpperHandle

720-0426

HeightAdjustKnob

746-1130

Cntrl.Cable,40" Model
546&549

710-0599

TT Screw,1/4-20x .500

746-1137

Cntrl Cable,53"Model
543

736-0270

Bell Washer

726-0240

CableTie

710-0654A

TT Screw,3/8-16x 1.0

664-04080

Grass BagAssembly

710-0216

Hex Screw,3/8-16x .75

747-04080

Grass Bag Frame

710-1652

TT Screw,1/4-20x .625

732-0700

TrailshieldWire

720-0312

FoamGrip

731-04998

Trailshield

734-04082

RearWheel,12 x 1.8Gray Bar

747-0996

Pivot Rod

710-1205

EyeBolt

731-04134A Rear DischargeDoor

732-0866

RearHi-WheelSpring Lever

687-02057

Rear HandleBracketAssy.- LH

687-02039A

RearPivotArmAssy- RH

687-02056

Rear HandleBracketAssy.- RH

687-02040A

RearPivotArmAssy- LH

787-01279

Deck21-inch

714-0104

HairpinClip

687-02075A Front HeightAdj. Assy-LH

687-02192

HandleBracketAssy- RH

687-02191

HandleBracketAssy- LH

687-02074A Front HeightAdj. Assy-RH
782-5002B

Front Baffle

710-0703

CarriageBolt ,1/4-20x .75

748-0377C

BladeAdapter

731-04150C

RearBaffle

748-04082

BladeAdapterw/Star t

710-04371

ScrewHL, 1/4-15x 1.00

742-0741

21-inchMulchingBlade

732-04090A

TorsionSpring- RH

736-0524B

Bell BladeSupport

732-04089A

TorsionSpring- LH

710-1257

Hex Screw,3/8-24x 2.5

750-04162

Spacer

731-04177

Side DischargeChute

712-0397

WingNut

17032A

DeflectorChuteAdaptor

749-0928A

LowerHandle

732-1014

TorsionSpring

710-1174

CarriageBolt,5/16-18x 2

747-0710

HingePin

720-04072

Star Knob

720-0279

HandleKnob

687-02055

HingedMulchPlug Assembly

712-04065

FlangeLock Nut 3/8-16

751B281440 EngineShroudModel549R t

787-01290

HeightAdjustmentPlate

710-1256

27
28

Screw#8-18 x 1.250549Rt

687-02077A Front PivotArmAssembly- RH

751A1432613 EngineShroudModel543B t

687-02076A Front PivotArmAssembly- LH

7510042823 ScrewModel543B t

734-1987

FrontWheel,8 x 1.8GrayBar

751B790880 EngineShroudModel546B t

734-1988

FrontWheel,7 x 1.8GrayBar t

751B095050 ScrewModel546B t

738-0507B

ShoulderScrew,.5D x .434
t Not Shown

Parts List

To order replacement

parts, call
1o330'220'4683,
1'800.800-7310

orvisit
www,rntdproducts.com

ii i _iI_ ii

MANUFACTURER'S

LiMiTED WARRANTY

The limitedwarrantyset forth belowisgivenby MTDLLCwith respect
to newmerchandisepurchasedand usedin the UnitedStates,its
possessionsand territories.
"MTD"warrantsthis productagainstdefectsin materialand workmanshipfor a periodof two (2) years commencingon the date of original
purchaseand will, at its option,repairor replace,freeof charge,any
part foundto be defectiveinmaterialsor workmanship.This limitedwarranty shallonlyapply if this product hasbeen operatedand maintained
inaccordancewith the Operator'sManualfurnishedwith the product,
and has notbeen subjectto misuse,abuse,commercialuse, neglect,
accident,impropermaintenance,alteration,vandalism,theft, fire, water,
or damagebecauseof otherperil or naturaldisaster.Damageresulting
fromthe installationor useof any part, accessoryor attachmentnot
approvedby MTDfor use with the product(s)coveredbythis manual
willvoid yourwarrantyas to any resultingdamage.
Normalwearparts are warrantedto be free fromdefects in materialand
workmanshipfor a periodof thirty (30) days fromthe dateof purchase.
Normalwearparts include,butare notlimitedto itemssuch as: batteries,belts,blades,blade adapters,grass bags, riderdeck wheels,seats,
snowthrowerskid shoes,shaveplates,auger spiralrubberand tires.
NOW 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 RO. Box 361131,Cleveland, Ohio 441360019, or call 1-800-800-7310 or 1-330-220-4683 or log on to our
Web site at www.mtdproducts.com.
This limitedwarrantydoesnot providecoverageinthe followingcases:
a. Theengineor componentparts thereof.These itemsmaycarry a
separatemanufacturer'swarranty.Referto applicablemanufacturer's
warrantyfor termsand conditions.
b. Log splitterpumps,valves,and cylindershavea separateone year
warranty.
c. Routinemaintenanceitemssuch as lubricants,filters, blade
sharpening,tune-ups,brakeadjustments,clutchadjustments,deck
adjustments,and normaldeteriorationof the exteriorfinish due to
useor exposure.

FOR

e. MTDdoesnot extendanywarrantyfor productssoldor exported
outsideof the UnitedStates,its possessionsand territories,except
those soldthroughMTD'sauthorizedchannelsof export distribution.
f. Replacementparts that are notgenuine MTDparts.
g. Transportationchargesand servicecalls.
No impliedwarranty,includingany impliedwarrantyof merchantabilityof fitness for a particular purpose,applies after the
applicable periodof express written warranty above as to the
parts as identified.No otherexpresswarranty, whetherwritten or
oral, except as mentioned above, givenby any personor entity,
includinga dealeror retailer, with respect to any product,shall
bind MTD.Duringthe periodof the warranty,the exclusiveremedy
is repairor replacementof the productas set forth above.
The provisionsas set forth in this warrantyprovidethe sole and
exclusiveremedy arising from the sale. MTDshallnot be liable
for incidentalor consequentialloss or damage including,without
limitation, expensesincurredfor substituteor replacementlawn
careservicesor for rentalexpensesto temporarily replacea
warranted product.
Somestatesdo notallowthe exclusionor limitationof incidentalor
consequentialdamages,or limitations
on howlong an impliedwarranty
lasts,sothe aboveexclusionsor limitations
maynot applyto you.
In no event shallrecoveryof any kindbe greaterthanthe amountof the
purchasepriceof the productsold.Alterationof safety features of
the product shallvoid this warranty. Youassumethe riskand liability
for loss,damage,or injuryto you and yourpropertyand/orto others and
theirpropertyarisingout of the misuseor inabilityto usethe product.
This limitedwarrantyshallnot extendto anyoneotherthan theoriginal
purchaseror to the personfor whomitwas purchasedas a gift.
HOWSTATELAWRELATESTOTHIS WARRANTY: This limited
warrantygivesyou specificlegal rights,and youmay alsohaveother
rightswhich vary from stateto state.
IMPORTANT:OwnermustpresentOriginal Proofof Purchaseto obtain
warrantycoverage.

d. Servicecompletedby someoneotherthanan authorizedservice
dealer.

MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND,

OHIO 44136=0019; Phone: 1=800=800=7310, 1=330=220=4683

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MTD 11A 543B700 User Manual LAWN MOWER Manuals And Guides 1107394L

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