MTD 11A 546B029 User Manual LAWN MOWER Manuals And Guides 1107385L

User Manual: MTD 11A-546B029 11A-546B029 MTD LAWN MOWER - Manuals and Guides View the owners manual for your MTD LAWN MOWER #11A546B029. 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 equippedwithan 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.769-00447F
3/22/2007

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
Slope Gauge ........................................................
Safe Operation Practices ...................................
Setup and Adjustment .......................................
Operating Your Lawn Mower ..............................
Maintaining Your Lawn Mower .........................

3
4
6
8
10

Troubleshooting ................................................
Safety Labels ....................................................
Parts List ...........................................................
Warranty .............................................

12
13
14

Back Cover

MTDLLCreservesthe rightto changeproductspecifications,designs,and equipmentwithoutnoticeand withoutincurring
obligation.

Finding and Recording Model Number
BEFOREYOU BEGINTO ASSEMBLEYOUR NEW

EQUIPMENT,pleaselocate the model plateon the
equipmentand copy the information
to the sample
model plateprovidedto the right. You can locate the
model plate by standing at the operatingposition and
lookingdown at the rear of the deck. This information
will be necessaryto use the manufacturer'sweb
site, to obtain assistancefrom the CustomerSupport Department,or when contactingan authorized
service dealer.

Model Number

Serial Number

MTD LLC
P.O. BOX
CLEVELAND,
330-220-4683
, www.mtdproducts.com

361131
OH 44136

800-800-731

Customer Support
Please do NOTreturn
purchased,

without

the unit to the retailer from
first

contacting

Customer

which it was
Support.

If you havedifficulty assemblingthis productor have any questionsregardingthe controls,operation,or
maintenanceof this unit, you can seek help from the experts. Choosefrom the options below:
• Visit www.mtdproducts.com
• Phone a CustomerSupport Representativeat 1.800.800.7310. Spanishspeakingagents are available.
• The engine manufacturer is responsiblefor all engine-relatedissueswith regardsto performance,powerrating,specifications,warrantyand service. Please refer to the enginemanufacturer'sOwner's/Operator's
Manual,packedseparatelywith 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 powerequipment, 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. Failure to 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 complywith these
instructionsmay result
i in personalinjury.When
you see this symbol.
i HEED ITS WARNING!

i Your Responsibility
Restrict the use
of this power machine
to personswho read.
i understand
and follow the warnings
and instructions
I.
=nthis 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.Shutthe engine off and waituntil the bladecomesto a
completestop beforeremovingthe grasscatcheror unclogging the chute.
The cutting bladecontinuesto rotatefora few secondsafter
the engine is shut off. Neverplace any partof the body in
the bladearea until you are surethe bladehas stopped
rotating.
20. Neveroperate mowerwithoutpropertrail shield, discharge
cover,grasscatcher,bladecontrol handle or othersafety
protectivedevices in placeand working.Neveroperate
mowerwith damagedsafetydevices.Failureto do so can
result in personalinjury.
21. Mufflerand engine becomehot andcan causea burn.Do
not touch.

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

22. Only use parts andaccessoriesmade forthis machineby
manufacturer.Failureto do so can resultin personalinjury.
23. Ifsituationsoccur whichare not coveredinthis manual,
use care and goodjudgment.Contactyour dealerfor
assistance.

Slope Operation

Practices

General Service:

Slopesare a majorfactor relatedto slip andfall accidents,which
can result insevereinjury.Operationon slopes requiresextra
caution.If youfeel uneasyon a slope,do not mowit. Foryour
safety,use the slope gaugeincludedas part of this manualto
measureslopes beforeoperatingthis uniton a slopedor hilly
area.Ifthe slope is greaterthan 15 degrees,do not mow it.

1. Neverrun an engine indoorsor in a poorlyventilatedarea.
Engineexhaustcontainscarbonmonoxide,an odorless
anddeadlygas.
2. Beforecleaning,repairing,or inspecting,makecertainthe
bladeandall movingparts havestopped.Disconnectthe
sparkplug wire andgroundagainstthe engineto prevent
unintendedstarting.
3. Checkthe bladeandengine mountingbolts atfrequent
intervalsfor propertightness.Also,visuallyinspectblade
fordamage(e.g.,bent,cracked,worn) Replacebladewith
the originalequipmentmanufacture's(O.E.M.)bladeonly,
listedin this manual."Useof partswhichdo not meetthe
originalequipmentspecificationsmay leadto improper
performanceand compromisesafety!"
4. Mowerbladesare sharp andcan cut.Wrap the bladeor
weargloves,anduse extracautionwhen servicingthem.
5. Keepall nuts,bolts, andscrewstight to be surethe equipmentis insafe workingcondition.
6. Nevertamperwithsafetydevices.Checktheir proper
operationregularly.
7. After strikinga foreignobject,stop the engine,disconnect the sparkplug wire andgroundagainstthe engine.
Thoroughlyinspectthe mowerfor any damage.Repairthe
damagebeforestartingandoperatingthe mower.
8. Neverattemptto makea wheel or cuttingheightadjustmentwhilethe engine is running.
9. Grasscatchercomponents,dischargecover,andtrail
shield aresubjectto wear anddamagewhichcould
exposemovingparts or allowobjectsto be thrown.For
safetyprotection,frequentlycheck componentsand replace immediatelywithoriginal equipmentmanufacturer's
(O.E.M.)parts only, listedin this manual."Use of parts
whichdo not meetthe originalequipmentspecifications
may lead to improperperformanceand compromise
safety!"
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.

Do:
1. Mow acrossthe face of slopes;neverupand down.Exercise
extremecautionwhen changingdirectionon slopes.
2. Watchfor holes,ruts, rocks,hidden objects,or bumps
which can causeyouto slip or trip. Tallgrasscan hide
obstacles.
3. Alwaysbe sure of yourfooting.A slip and fallcan cause
serious personalinjury.If youfeel you are losingyour
balance,releasethe bladecontrol handle immediately,and
the bladewill stop rotatingwithin3 seconds.

Do Not:
1. Do not mow near drop-offs,ditchesor embankments,you
could loseyourfooting or balance.
2. Do not mow slopes greaterthan 15degreesas shown on
the slope gauge.
3. Do not mow on wet grass. Unstablefooting could cause
slipping.

Service
Safe Handling Of Gasoline:
1. Toavoid personalinjury or propertydamageuse extreme
care in handlinggasoline. Gasolineis extremelyflammable
and the vapors are explosive.Serious personalinjury can
occur when gasolineis spilled on yourselfor your clothes,
which can ignite.Washyourskin andchangeclothes
immediately.
2. Use onlyan approvedgasolinecontainer.
3. Neverfill containersinside a vehicleor on a truck or trailer
bed witha plasticliner.Alwaysplacecontainerson the
ground awayfrom yourvehicle beforefilling.
4. Removegas-poweredequipmentfrom the truckor trailer
and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible,then refuel
such equipmenton atrailer witha portable container,rather
than from a gasolinedispensernozzle.
5. Keepthe nozzle in contactwiththe rim of the fuel tank or
containeropeningat all times untilfueling is 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 lifting the handleup.
b. Tightenstar knobsto secureupper handleto
lowerhandle.Make surethat eachcarriagebolt is
seatedproperlyin the handle.
2. Locatethe hairpinclipon the weldpin on eachsideof
lowerhandle.
a.

Stand behindthe mower
as ifyou were goingto
i operate it. Yourright
handcorrespondsto the
rightside of the mower;
yourleft hand correspondsto the left side of
the mower.

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

Figure3-1: Unfoldhandle,tightenhardware.

Hardware Pack

Removehairpinclipfrom this hole.Usinga pair
of pliers,inserthairpinclip intothe holeon pin
closestto the bracket.See Figure3-2. Repeaton
otherside.

_*_

The ropeguide is attachedto the right sideof the
upperhandle.See Figure3-3. Loosenthe wing nut
..........................................
which securesthe ropeguide.
.

Wing Nuts (2)

Carriage Bolts (2)

a. Holdblade controlagainstupper handle.
Makesureto routecable
outside the lower handle.
Do not crimpcablewhile
lifting the handleup.

b. Pull starterropeout of the engine.Releaseblade
control.
c. Slip starterrope into ropeguide.
d. Tightenwingnut.
.

IMPORTANT
I This unit is shippedwithout gasoline or oil inthe
engine. Fill up gasoline
i and oil as instructed in
i the accompanying engine
; manual BEFOREoperating your mower.

insert post on cable tie intohole providedon thelower
handle.Pullcabletie tight and trim excess.See Figure
3-4.

Figure3-2:Securelowerhandleto mountingbrackets.
f

i This Operator's Manual
i may covera rangeof
, productspecifications
i for variousmodels
I Characteristics,features,
i and engines discussed
i and/or illustratedin
this manual may not be
applicable to all models,
MTDLLCreservesthe
i
I
i
i

rightto changeproduct
specifications,designs,
and equipment without
noticeand withoutincurring obligation.
Figure3-3: Pullrecoilstarterthrough ropeguide andtighten.

Figure3-4:Securecablesto handleusing cabletie.

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

Yourmoweris shippedas a mulcher.Toconvertto
sidedischarge,makesuregrass catcheris off of the
unitand reardischargedoor is closed.

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

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

b. Slip plasticchannelof grass bagoverhooks on
the frame.See Figure3-5. All theplasticchannels
exceptcentertop 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.

setupand

c. Attachcentertop of bag from insideof bag.

WARNING
Figure3-7:Lift mulchplug andinstallside dischargechute.

without the mulching
plug, the grass catcher,
or the discharge chute
Figure3-5:Assemble
thegrasscatcher.

Adjustments

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

An adjustingplateand thumbleverat eachwheel
providescuttingheightadjustment.

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

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

the hookson the grass catcher are
ARNING:Never operate mowerunless
firmly seated on the pivotrod and the
rear discharge door restsfirmly against
top of the grass catcher.
_

3. Releaselevertowardsmowerdeck.

NOTE: When adjusting
the cutting height,
all wheels must be
positioned at the same
height.

Figure3-6:Attachthegrasscatcher.

Figure3-8:Use leversto adjustcuttingheight.

Know Your Lawn Mower
f

M 0Wer

BladeControl

Recoil Starter

CuttingHeight
Adjustment
front

WARNING

and rear)
The blade control is a
safety device. Never
attempt to bypass its
operations.
Use extreme care when
handling gasoline.
Gasoline is extremely
flammable and the
vapors are explosive.
i Neverfuel themachine
indoors or while the
engine is hot or running.
Extinguish cigarettes,
, cigars, pipes, and other
sources of ignition.

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

MulchPlug
Side DischargeChute ..=======__
Figure4-1:The majorparts on the lawnmower.
Now thatyou haveset up your lawnmowerfor operation, readthis sectionto becomeacquaintedwith its
controlsand features.This knowledgewill allowyouto
useyour newequipmentto its fullestpotential.

Mulch

Blade Control
Theblade controlisattachedto the upperhandle.
Depressand squeezeit againstthe upperhandleto
operatethe unit. Releaseit to stop engineand blade.

__k

Cutting

Grass

Adjustment

Gas and Oil Fill-Up
1. Checkoil leveland add oil if necessary.Followengine
owner'smanualforthis.

Levers

One adjustmentleveris locatedon eachwheeland is
usedto adjustthe cuttingheight.All fourwheelsmust
be at the same positionto ensurea uniformcut.

Recoil

Catcher

Thegrass catcher,locatedat the rearof the mower,is
usedto bag the grassclippingsfor disposalat another
site.Oncethe bag isfull, ithasto be removedfrom the
mowerand emptiedbeforeanyfurther mowing.

a safetydevice. Do not bypass its
WARNING:Thisblade controlis
operations.

Height

Plug

Themulch plug is usedfor mulchingpurposes.Insteadof
collectingthe grassclippingsin a grass catcheror using
the sidedischargechute,some mowermodelshavethe
optionof recirculatingthe clippingsback to the lawn.This
is calledmulching.

2. Servicethe enginewith gasolineas instructedin the
engineowner'smanual.

Starter

dling gasoline.Gasoline is extremely
ARNING:Useextremecarewhen
hanflammable
and the vapors are explosive.
Never fuel the machine indoorsor while
the engine is hot or running. Extinguish cigarettes,
cigars, pipes,and other sources of ignition.

The recoilstarteris attachedto the rightupper handle.
Standbehindthe unitand pullthe recoilstarterropeto
startthe unit.

Starting Engine
the operatoris standingnearthe lawn
ARNING:Besure no one otherthan
mower whilestartingengineor operating mower.Neverrun engineindoorsor
in enclosed,poody ventilatedareas. Engineexhaust
containscarbonmonoxide,an odorlessand deadly
gas. Keephands,feet, hairand looseclothingaway
from any moving parts on engine and lawn mower.
__k

Operating

Follow the set of instructionspertainingto your unit.
Refer to engine manual for help with the engine.

Briggs

& Stratton/Kawasaki

Mower

Engine:

1. If equipped,pushprimerthreetimes(Kawasaki- one
time).Wait abouttwo secondsbetweeneach push.
See Figure4-2. In temperaturearound550F or below,
primefive times. Do notprimeto restarta warm
Figure4-2:StartingtheBriggs& Strattonengine.
engine.
2. Standingbehindthe mower,squeezethe bladecontrol
againstupper handle.See Figure4-2.
3. Holdingthesetwo handlestogetherfirmly,grasp recoil
starterhandleand pull ropeout with a rapid,continuous, full arm stroke.See Figure4-2. Keepinga firm
grip on the starterhandle,let the rope rewindslowly.
Repeatuntil enginecranks.Letthe roperewindeach
time slowly.

Honda

WARNING
The operation of any
lawn mower can result
n foreign objects being
thrown into the eyes,

Engine:

1. Placethe fuel valveleverfoundon the left sideof the
engine intothe ON (OPEN)position.See Figure4-3.

which can damage your
eyes severely. Always
wear safety glasses

2. Movethechoke lever(if equipped)all the way
backwardintothe choke position.
3. Standingbehindthe mower,squeezethe bladecontrol
againstupper handle.See Figure4-3.The chokewill
Figure4-3:Startingthe Hondaengine.
now beginto slowly returnto the off choke position
after activatingthe blade control.Therefore,quickly
anydirectionand cause seriouspersonalinjuryto the
move ontostep fourbelow.
operatorand others.
4. Holdingthesetwo handlestogetherfirmly,grasp recoil
starterhandleand pull ropeout with a rapid,continuobject, stop the engine. Remove
ous, full arm stroke.See Figure4-3. Keepinga firm
__k
ARNING:if
strike
a foreign
wire
from the you
spark
plug,thoroughly
grip on the starterhandlelet the rope rewindslowly.
inspectmower for any damage, and
Repeatuntil enginecranks.Letthe roperewindeach
repairdamage before restarting and operating.
time slowly.
Extensive vibration of mower during operation is an
indicationof damage. The unit should be promptly
completelybefore performingany work
inspectedand repaired.
__1=
ARNING:Wait for the blade to stop
on the mower or to removethe grass
catcher.

Using

as Mulcher

2. Disconnectsparkplug wirefrom spark plug and
groundagainstthe engine.

Formulchinggrass,removethe grasscatcherand side
dischargechutefrom the mower.Foreffectivemulching,
do notcut wet grass.If the grass hasbeen allowedto
growin excessof fourinches,mulchingis not recommended.Usethe grass catcherto bag clippingsinstead.

Using Your Lawn Mower

Using

Be surelawnisclearof stones,sticks,wire,or other
objectswhich coulddamagelawnmoweror engine,
Such objectscouldbe accidentlythrownby the mowerin

Youcan usethe grass catcherto collectclippingswhile
youare operatingthe mower.Referto setup sectionfor
instructionson attachingthe grasscatcher.

Stopping

Engine

1. Releasebladecontrol to stop theengineand blade.

Grass

Catcher

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.
2. Tip mowersothat it restson the engine.Keepthe side
with the air cleanerfacing up. Holdmowerfirmly.

lVloWe r

than
90° in any direction
do not
ARNING:Never
tip the and
mower
more
leavethe mower tipped for any lengthof
time. Oil can drain intothe upper part of the engine
causing a starting problem.

Figure5-1:Areasto lubricateonmower.

3. Scrapeand cleanthe undersideof the deck with a
suitabletool. Do notspraywith water.

General

4. Putthe mowerback on its wheelson the ground.If
youhad putplasticunderthe gas capearlier,make
sureto removeit now.

Recommendations

• Alwaysobservesafetyruleswhen performing
anymaintenance.

Engine

• Thewarrantyon this lawnmowerdoesnot cover
itemsthat havebeen subjectedto operatorabuse
or negligence.To receivefull valuefromwarranty,
operatormustmaintainthelawn moweras
instructedhere.
• Changingof engineigovernedspeedwill void
enginewarranty.
• All adjustmentsshouldbe checkedat leastonce
eachseason.
• Periodicallycheckall fastenersand makesurethese
are tight.

Do not use a pressure
Washer or garden
hose to Cleanyour
uniL These may Cause
damageto eleCtric
componentsi spindles;

pu,eys,
bearings;
or
theenginel The use
Ofwater Willresu!tin
shortened life and
reduce serviceability:
This Operator'sManual
covers several models;
Lawn Mowerfeatures
vary by model: Not
all features disCussed
(Oreng nespictur

Care

A list of key enginemaintenancejobs requiredfor good
performanceby the moweris given below.Followthe
accompanyingengine manualfor a detailedlist and
instructions.
• Maintainoil levelas instructedin enginemanual.
• Serviceair cleanerevery25 hoursundernormal
conditions.Cleaneveryfew hoursunderextremely
dustyconditions.Poorengineperformanceand
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.

nect
spark plug, and ground against
ARNING:Alwaysstopengine,disconengine before performing any type of
maintenance on your machine.
__i

• Cleanengineregularlywith a cloth or brush. Keepthe
top of theengineclean to permitproperair circulation.
Removeall grass,dirt, and combustibledebrisfrom
mufflerarea.

Lubrication
1. Lubricatepivot pointson theblade controlat least
oncea seasonwith lightoil. The bladecontrol must
operatefreely in both directions.See Figure5il.
2. Lubricatethe wheelsat least oncea seasonwith
lightoil (or motoroil). If wheelsare removedfor any
reason,lubricatesurfaceof the pivotarm and inner
surfaceof thewheelwith light oil. See Figure5il.
3. Lubricatethe torsionspringsand pivot pointon the
rear dischargedoor and side mulchplug periodically
with lightoil to preventrust.See Figure511.
4. Followtheaccompanyingengine manualfor lubrication scheduleand instructionfor engine lubrication.

in this manual are
app!icableto all Lawn
10

Blade Care
_i=

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

3. Removebladeand adapterfromthe crankshaft,
Figure5-2.

Figure5-2:Remove
thebolt,support,andadaptertoaccess
theblade.

4. The bladecan be sharpenedwith a fileor on a grindingwheel.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.

causeexcessivevibration when rotating
WARNING:An unbalanced blade will
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.

Figure5-3:Removerearflap.

Off-Season

• Do not usea pressurewasheror garden hoseto
cleanyourunit.
Referto engine manualforcorrectengine
storageinstructions.

9. Replacehex boltand tightenhex boltto torque:450
in.Ibs. rain.,600 in.Ibs.max.

Coat mower'scuttingblade with chassisgreaseto
preventrusting.

Toensuresafe operationof yourmower,periodically
checkthe blade boltfor correcttorque.

Replacing

Rear Flap

1. To removerear flap, lift reardoor,and pressflap in on
eitherside to removefrom hole. See Figure5-3.
2. Removeflap fromoppositehole and replacewith new
flap in theoppositeorder and mannerof removal.

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 rotatingat high speeds. It
may cause damage
to mower and could
break causing personal injury.

Problem

Cause

Engine fails to start

ii
2

B!adeControidisengaged,
Spa[kplug Wiredisconnected.

3: Fuel tank emptYor staid fuel
4. Enginenot primed(if equippedwith
primer)i
5. FaultySparkp ugl

Shooting

Remedy

7: Enginefl0oded.

EngagebladeC0ntr0
2 connect wireto spark plugl

&Fill
tank Withcleanl fresh gasoiine:
4. Primeengine as instr,u,
cted in operat_
I
ingYour Lawn Mower:
15
cleanl adjustgaP,0rreP!ace.
6, clean fuel linel
Wait a few minutest0 restart bUtdo

I
Engine runs erratic

& Fue! yalve (if equipped)CloSed.
I
9. Enginenot Choked(if equippedw/choke).

Open fuel va!ve, see enginemanna!.
& Choke enginel Seeengine manual.

1. Sparkplug wire loose.
2. Blockedfuel lineor stale fuel.

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

3.
4.
5.
6.

For repairsbeyond

Engine overheats

the minoradjustments
listedhere; contact
an authorized service

dealer'

Occasional skips
(hesitates) at high speed

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

1. Engineoil levellow,

1. Fillcrankcasewith proper oil.

2. Air flow restricted.
3. Carburetornot adjustedproperly.

2. Clean accumulateddebrisfrom engine.
3. Referto engine manual.

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

1. Adjustgap to .030-inch.
2. Referto engine manual.

Idles poorly

NOTE: Specficationsaid
subjectto changewith0ut
notificationo[ ob!igation,
Imagesrnayn0treflect
yourexact modeland are

Excessive Vibration

Mower wil not mulch grass

1. Sparkplug fouled, faulty or gaptoo wide.

1. Resetgapto .030-inchor replace

2. Carburetorimproperlyadjusted.
3. Dirtyair cleaner.

spark plug.
2. Referto engine manual.
3. Referto engine manual.

1. Cuttingbladeloose or unbalanced.

1. Tighten bladeandadapter.Balance
blade.

2. Bentcutting blade.

2. See an authorizedservicedealer.

1. Wetgrass.
2 Excessivelyhigh grass.

iiiI i_I _ii_iii_iii_!i_i
i_i _ _i i_

_i
Uneven cut

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

3. Dullblade.
1. Wheelsnot positionedcorrectly.
2. Dull blade.

1 Donot mowwhen grass is wet wait
untillater to cut.
2. Mowonce at a high cutting height,
then mowagainat desiredheight or
makea narrowercurt ng path.
, 3. Sharpenor replaceblade,
1. Placeall four wheelsin same
heightposition.
_ 2. Shar en or re! laceblade.

Safety Labels Found On Your Lawn Mower

iVlodel Series 540

Zag

747-1161A

BladeControl

734-04215

FrontWheel,8 x 1.8,K2 Bar

749-1092A

UpperHandle

734-1988

FrontWheel,7 x 1.8,Bar

746-1130

ControlCable,40"

734-1987

FrontWheel,8 x 1.8,Bar

746-04104

ControlCable,40",Snap-On,Kaw

734-2005A

FrontWheel,8 x 2.125,Zag

746-1137

ControlCable,53"

734-04086

FrontWheel,7 x 1.8,Pin Bar

726-0240

CableTie

738-0507B

ShoulderScrew,.5Dx .434

664-04007A Grass BagAssembly

732-0404

FrontSpringLever

664-04034A Grass BagAssembly-Gray

720-0426

HeightAdjust Knob

664-04027

Grass BagAssembly- Yardman

710-0599

TT Screw,1/4-20x .500

747-04080

Grass Bag Frame

736-0270

Bell Washer

720-0279

HandleKnob

710-0654A

TT Screw,3/8-16x 1.0

731-05642

Trailshield

710-0216

HexScrew,3/8-16x .75

747-04588

PivotRod

710-1652

TT Screw,1/4-20x .625

10 731-05865

RearDischargeDoor

720-0312

FoamGrip

11 687-02280

RearHandleBracketAssy.- LH

734-04217

RearWheel,12x 1.8,K2 Bar

687-02279

RearHandleBracketAssy.- RH

734-04082

RearWheel,12x 1.8,Bar

12 787-01279

Deck21-inch

734-04093

RearWheel,12x 2.125,Zag

13 687-02075B

FrontHgt.Adj.Assy.,8" Whl. - LH

734-04089

RearWheel,12x 1.8,Pin Bar

687-02074B FrontHgt.Adj.Assy.,811Whl.-RH
_ 687-02099B _ FrontHgt.Adj.Assy.,7 Whl.-LH
687-02100B

38 710-1205
39 _ 732-0866

FrontHgt.Adj.Assy.,7"Whl. - RH

EyeBolt
_ RearHi-WheelSpringLever

687-02039A

RearPivotArmAssy- RH

687-02040A

RearPivotArmAssy- LH

14 782-5002B

FrontBaffle

15 748-0377C

BladeAdapterw/Star

714-0104

HairpinClip

BladeAdapter- 25ram

720-04072

StarKnob

16 742-0741

21-inchMulchingBlade

710-0703

CarriageBolt ,1/4-20x .75

17 736-0524B

Bell BladeSupport

731-04150C RearBaffle

18 710-1257

HexScrew,3/8-24x2.5

710-1241

19 731-04177

Side DischargeChute

732-04090A TorsionSpring- RH

17032A

DeflectorChuteAdaptor

710-1174

CarriageBolt,5/16-18x 2

732-1014

TorsionSpring

712-0397

Wing Nut
LowerHandle

748-04082

ScrewHL, 1/4-15x 1.00

747-0710

HingePin

749-0928A

687-02055

HingedMulchPlug Assembly

736-0182t

SpringWasher

712-04065

FlangeLock Nut3/8-16

731-04204t

DeluxeBail Cover- Red

787-01290

HeightAdjustmentPlate

731-04859t

DeluxeBail Cover- Gray

687-02337

PivotArmAssyLH (7"wheel)

732-04089A TorsionSpring- LH

687-02338

PivotArmAssyRH (7" wheel)

738-04266

ShoulderScrew,.500Dia. X .385

687-02337

PivotArmAssyRH (8" wheel)

731-0981At

HubCap

687-02338

PivotArmAssyLH (8"wheel)
t If Equipped

Mowerfeatures/componentsvary by model. NOTall parts listedaboveand picturedon the previouspage are
standardequipment.

Parts Li

_FACTORY

PARTS

To order replacement
parts, contact
1,800-800'7310
or visit
www.mtdproducts;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.
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 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 impliedwarranty of merchantabilityof fitness for a particular purpose,applies after the
applicable periodof express written warranty above as to the
parts as identified.No otherexpresswarranty, whetherwrittenor
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 limitationson howlong an impliedwarranty
lasts, sothe aboveexclusionsor limitationsmaynot applyto you.
In no event shallrecoveryof any kindbe greaterthanthe amountof the
purchasepriceof the productsold.Alterationof safety features of
the productshallvoid this warranty. Youassumethe risk and 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.

IVITD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHiO 44136-0019;
GDOO-lO0015 REV.A

Phone: 1=800=800-7310, 1-330=220-4683

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MTD 11A 546B029 User Manual LAWN MOWER Manuals And Guides 1107385L

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