MTD 12A 449R729 User Manual LAWN MOWER Manuals And Guides 1107431L

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Operator's Manual

21" Rear-Discharge
Lawn Mower
Model Series 440 & 450

IMPORTANT:

Read safety rules and instructions

carefully

before operating

equipment.

Warning:

This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brushcovered 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.

MTDLLC, P.O.BOX361131CLEVELAND,
OHIO44136-0019

PRINTED IN U.S.A.

FORM NO. 770-10134F
(2/17/2004)

TABLEOFCONTENTS
Content

Page
3
6
7

Important Safe Operation Practices
Slope Gauge
Assembling Your Lawn Mower
Know Your Lawn Mower
Operating Your Lawn Mower
Maintaining Your Lawn Mower

Content
Servicing Your Lawn Mower
Making Adjustments
Off Season Storage

Page
13
15
16

10
11

Trouble Shooting Guide
Illustrated Parts

17
18

Warranty

FINDINGMODELNUMBER
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.
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.

_jM_)ff

P. O. BOX
MTB
LLC
CLEVELAND,OH

361131
44136

Copy

the model

Copy

the serial

number
number

here:
here:

338-228-4683
', www.mtuprouuc_s.com

888-888-731

CUSTOMER
SUPPORT
Please do NOTreturn theunit to the retailer from where it waspurchased,withoutfirst contactingCustomerSupport.
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:
Visit mtdproducts.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.

answer you are
looking for could be just
a mouse

c//cA awayf

answer

looking
a mouse

are

for could be just
"

c//cA away!

If you prefer to reach a Customer Support Representative, please call 1-800-800-7310.

M nual
En ine

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
information.

SECTION1: IMPORTANT
SAFEOPERATION
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"

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. Failure to
observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
WARNING"
Engine exhaust, some of its constituents,
and certain vehicle components
emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other
reproductive

harm.

GeneralOperation
1.

contain or

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
safe operation rules should 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. Plan 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 toward operator.
To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object
injury, stay in the operator zone behind the handles
and keep bystanders, helpers, children and pets at
least 75 feet from the machine 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 closefitting slacks and shirts. Shirts and pants that cover
the arms and legs and steel-toed shoes are
recommended. Never 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.
9. A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause
blade contact or thrown object injuries.
10. 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.
11. Never pull the mower back toward you while you
are walking. If you must back the mower away from
a wall or obstruction first look down and behind to

5.
6.
7.

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.

Do Not:
8. Neveroperatethemowerinwetgrass.Alwaysbe
sureofyourfooting.A slipandfallcancause
1. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or
seriouspersonalinjury.Ifyoufeelyouarelosing
embankments, you could lose your footing or
yourfooting,releasethebladecontrolhandle
balance.
immediately
andthebladewillstoprotatingwithin
2. Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as
threeseconds.
shown on the slope gauge.
9. Mowindaylightorgoodartificiallight.Walk,never
3. Do not mow on wet grass. Unstable footing could
run.Stopthebladewhencrossinggraveldrives,
cause slipping.
walkwaysorroads.
10.Iftheequipment
shouldstarttovibrateabnormally, Children
stoptheengineandcheckimmediately
forthe
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to
cause.Vibrationisgenerallyawarningoftrouble.
the presence of children. Children are often attracted to
11.Shuttheengineoffandwaituntilthebladecomes
the mower and the mowing activity. They do not
toa completestopbeforeremoving
thegrass
understand the dangers. Never assume that children
catcherorunclogging
thechute.Thecuttingblade
will
remain where you last saw them.
continues
torotatefora fewsecondsafterthe
engineis shutoff.Neverplaceanypartofthebody 1. Keep children out of the mowing area and under
the watchful care of a responsible adult other than
inthebladeareauntilyouaresurethebladehas
the operator.
stoppedrotating.
2. Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the
12.Neveroperatemowerwithoutpropertrail shield,
area.
discharge
cover,grasscatcher,bladecontrol
3. Before and while moving backwards, look behind
handleorothersafetyprotective
devicesinplace
and down for small children.
andworking.Neveroperatemowerwithdamaged
4. Use extreme care when approaching blind corners,
safetydevices.Failuretodoso,canresultin
doorways, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may
personalinjury.
obscure your vision of a child who may run into the
13.Mufflerandenginebecomehotandcancausea
mower.
burn.Donottouch.
5. Keep children away from hot or running engines.
14.Onlyusepartsandaccessories
madeforthis
They can suffer burns from a hot muffler.
machinebytheoriginalequipment
manufacturer
(O.E.M).Failureto dosocancausepersonalinjury. 6. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate
15.If situations
occurwhicharenotcoveredinthis
a power mower. Children 14 years old and over
should read and understand the operation
manual,usecareandgoodjudgment.Contactyour
instructions and safety rules in this manual and
dealerforassistance.
Telephone1-800-800-7310
should be trained and supervised by a parent.
forthenameofyournearestdealer.

SlopeOperation

Service

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. Before operating this unit on a
slope or hilly area, use the slope gauge on page 6 to
measure slopes. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees,
do not mow it.

Safe Handlingof 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.
2. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.
3. Use only an approved gasoline container.
4. 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. If possible, 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.

Do:

Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down.
Exercise extreme caution when changing direction
on slopes.
Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or
bumps which can cause you to slip or trip. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.
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.

7. Extinguish
allcigarettes,
cigars,pipesandother
sourcesofignition.
8. Neverfuelmachineindoorsbecause
flammable
vaporswillaccumulate
inthearea.
9. Neverremovegascapor addfuelwhiletheengine
ishotor running.Allowenginetocoolatleasttwo
minutesbeforerefueling.
10.Neveroverfillfueltank.Filltanktonomorethan½
inchbelowbottomoffillernecktoprovidespacefor
fuelexpansion.
11.Replacegasolinecapandtightensecurely.
12.If gasolineisspilled,wipeitofftheengineand
equipment.
Moveunittoanotherarea.Wait5
minutesbeforestartingtheengine.
13.Neverstorethemachineorfuelcontainer
inside
wherethereisanopenflame,sparkor pilotlightas
ona waterheater,spaceheater,furnace,clothes
dryerorothergasappliances.
14.Toreducefirehazard,keepmowerfreeofgrass,
leaves,orotherdebrisbuild-up.
Cleanupoilorfuel
spillageandremoveanyfuelsoakeddebris.
15.Allowa mowertocoolatleast5 minutesbefore
storing.
GeneralService
1.

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!"
4. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the
blade or wear gloves, and use extra caution when
servicing them.
5. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the
equipment is in safe working condition.
6. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their
proper operation regularly.
7. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine,
disconnect the spark plug wire and ground against
the engine. 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 harm
the environment.

YourResponsibility
•

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.

/ WARNING

USE THIS PAGE AS A GUIDE TO DETERMINE

SLOPES

WHERE

YOU MAY NOT OPERATE

SAFELY.

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15°

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0'3

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0'3

_kWARNING
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.

SECTION3: ASSEMBLING
YOURLAWNMOWER
RemovingUnitFromCarton
•
•
•
•

Remove staples, break glue on top flaps or cut tape
at carton end and peel top flap to open carton.
Remove loose parts if included with unit.
Cut corners and lay carton down flat. Remove
packing material.
Roll or slide unit out of carton. Check carton

•
•

Raise the upper handle as shown in Figure 2.
Tighten the two wing nuts which are already on the
handle. See Figure 3.

Tighten these
wing nuts

thoroughly for loose parts.
NOTE: Make sure not to crimp cables while removing
the loose parts or the entire unit from the carton.

ToolsRequired
•
•

Lower
Handle

Upper
Handle

Pair of Pliers
Funnel
Figure 3

Disconnecting
SparkPlug
•

Before setting up your lawn mower, disconnect the
spark plug wire from the spark plug. See Figure 1.
:2/F/Spark PlugWire _

w,
re
Spark Plug

NOTE: Make sure to route the cables outside the lower
handle. Also do not crimp the cables while lifting the
handle up.
•

•
I tll

For shipping purposes, the hairpin clip is placed in
the outer hole of the weld pin on the lower handle.
Remove the hairpin clip from the outer hole of the
weld pin.
Using a pair of pliers, insert the hairpin clip into the
inner hole in the weld pin. Repeat on the other side.
See Figure 4.

Spark Plug

Handle Mounting

Figure 1

AssemblingHandle

__Carriage

For shipping purposes, the grass bag was placed on
top of the unit. Remove it from the unit and set it out of
the way. See Figure 2.

Wing Nut

Bolt

Insert Hairpin
Clip

LowerHandle

Lift lower handle
GrassBag

Upper Handle

Lift
handle

Figure 2
•

Raise the lower handle, as shown in Figure 2, until
it snaps into place.

Clip
Figure 4
After moving the hairpin clip, insert the carriage bolt
from hardware pack in the upper hole on the handle
mounting bracket and secure with plastic wing nut
from the hardware pack. Repeat on other side.

Insertpostofcabletiesthatareonlowerhandle
intotheholesprovided
onthelowerhandle.The
holesmaybeontheinsideoroutside.Pullcable
tiestightandcutofftheextra.SeeFigure5 below.

AssemblingSoft GrassBag
•

Cable Tie
•
Post on
Cable

Place the bag over the frame (black plastic side is
the bottom of bag). Slip the openings in the side of
the plastic channels on the bag over the hooks on
the grass catcher frame.
Secure bag to frame by working the plastic
channels on bag over frame as shown in Figure 7B.
All of the plastic channels except the center top of
the bag attach from the outside of bag. The center
top of the bag attaches from inside the bag.
Frame
/

Figure 5

Attaching
StarterRope

Frame
Assembly

The rope guide is already attached to the right side of
the lower handle of your mower. See Figure 6.
•

Plastic
Channels

With the spark plug wire disconnected and
grounded, hold the blade control handle against the
upper handle, and pull the starter rope up to the
rope guide. See Figure 6.
Slip the rope through the rope guide as shown
below. Tighten the wing nut holding the rope guide
to the lower handle.

•

Bag

Figure 7

AttachingGrassCatcher
Lower Handle

•

Lift the rear discharge door and place the grass
catcher on the pivot rod. Let go of discharge door so
that it rests on the grass catcher. See Figure 8.

Starter
Rope
_Wing Nut
Rope

Figure 6

GrassCatcherAssembly
NOTE: Make certain the grass bag is turned right side
out before assembling (warning label will be on the
outside).
Partsfor Soft GrassBag
1.
2.

Frame Assembly
Bag

Figure 8
NOTE: Make sure that the cables are routed to the
outside of the handle when attaching the grass catcher.

Never operate the mower unless the
hooks on the grass catcher are seated in
the slots on the handle bracket
assemblies, and the rear discharge door
rests firmly against the top of the grass
catcher.

•

Slide the rod into the upper edge of the chute
deflector so the tab on the rod is toward the left side
of the chute deflector. When assembled correctly,
the rod will extend further to the left side than the
right side. See Figure 9.
Slide the push nut onto the right side of the rod to
secure.

RemovingGrassCatcher

AttachingChute Deflector(If Equipped)

•

•
•

•

Lift the rear discharge door on the mower, and lift
the grass catcher up.
Release the rear discharge door.

ChuteDeflector

Lift the rear discharge door on the mower.
Place the ends of the rod into the slots in the handle
bracket assemblies. See Figure 10.
Release the rear discharge door.

Equipped)
Rear
Discharge
Door
/

If your mower is equipped with the chute deflector,
assemble as follows:
Rod

Tab

Chute
Deflector

Nut
Figure 9

Slots in
Handle Bracket
Assemblies

Figure 10
Converting to Mulcher
•
Lift the rear discharge door on the mower, and lift
the grass catcher up.
•
Release the rear discharge door.

SECTION4: KNOWYOURLAWNMOWER
Read this owner's manual and safety rules before operating your lawn mower. Compare the illustrations in Figure
11 with your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the location of various controls and adjustments.
Blade Control Handle

Lower Bail Handle
Chute Deflector
(Optional)
_
Recoil Starter_

Grass

Height Adjustment Lever

Figure 11
BladeControlHandle

Throttle Control

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 the
blade control handle to stop the engine and the blade.
See Figure 11.

The engine is equipped with a constant speed throttle
for maximum engine and cutting performance.
RecoilStarter
The recoil starter is attached to the handle. Stand
behind the unit and pull the recoil starter to start engine.
Primer

The primer is used to pump gas into the carburetor. Use
it to assist in starting a cold engine, but do not use it
when restarting a warm engine after a short shutdown.

safety device. Never
WARNING"
The blade
attempt
control
to bypass
handle its
is a
operations. The blade will be rotating whenever
the engine is running.

Lower Bail Handle
The lower bail handle is located on the upper handle
and is used to engage the drive. Squeeze the bail
handle against the upper handle to engage the drive;
release it to slow down or stop mower from propelling.
See Figure 11.

SECTION5: OPERATING
YOURLAWNMOWER
GasandOilFill-Up
,i_

•

StoppingEngine

WARNING"
fuel
tank
or
when
engine is Never
runningfill or
hot.
Do indoors,
not smoke
when filling up the fuel tank.
Service the engine with gasoline and oil as
instructed in the separate engine manual packed
with your mower. Read the instructions carefully.

Release blade control handle to stop the engine
and the blade.

•

Disconnect spark plug wire and move away from
spark plug to prevent accidental starting.

NOTE: See your engine manual packed with your unit
for more detailed instructions.

OperatingYourLawnMower

BeforeStartingMower
•

•

Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. Make certain
the metal cap on the end of the spark plug wire is
fastened securely over the metal tip on the spark
plug.

•

StartingEngine

•

operator is standing
WARNING"
Be sure
near
nothe
onelawn
other
mower
than while
the
starting engine or operating mower.
•

WARNING:
Never run engine indoors or in
enclosed, poorly ventilated areas. Engine
exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an
odorless and deadly gas.

WARNING:

Keep hands, feet, hair and
loose clothing away from any moving parts on
engine and lawn mower.
•

•
•

•

Push the primer three times. Wait two seconds
between each push. In temperatures below 55 ° F,
prime five times. Do not prime to restart a warm
engine after a short shutdown.
Standing behind the mower, depress the blade
control handle and hold it against the upper handle.
Grasp starter handle and pull rope out slowly until
engine reaches 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 rewind slowly.

Once the engine has started, squeeze the lower
bail handle and the blade control handle against the
upper handle to run the mower.
Do not operate the mower without the mulching
cover, the grass catcher bag, or the discharge
chute properly installed.
Be sure that the lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire,
or other objects which could damage lawn mower
or 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,
poor mulching conditions, and could cause you to
slip and fall. New grass, thick grass, or wet grass
may require a narrower cut.
For a healthy lawn, always cut off one-third or less
of the total length of the grass. Lawn should be
trimmed in fall as long as there is growth.
WARNING:
If you strike a foreign object,
stop the engine. Remove spark plug wire from
spark plug, thoroughly inspect the mower for
any damage. 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.

•

BaggingGrassClippings
You can use the grass catcher bag to collect clippings
while you are operating the mower.
•

•
•

Lift discharge door and pull grass bag up and away
from the mower to dispose of the grass clippings.

AdjustingCuttingHeight

Attach the grass catcher following instructions on
page 8 of this manual. Grass clippings will
automatically collect in the bag as you run mower.
Operate mower till the grass bag is full.
Stop the engine completely by releasing the control
handle. Make sure that the unit has come to a

Refer to height adjustments section of this manual on
page 15 for instruction on how to adjust the cutting
height and the handle height.
•

complete stop.

For best results in mowing, keep the cutting height
position high until you have determined which
cutting height is preferred.

SECTION6: MAINTAININGYOURLAWNMOWER
EngineMaintenance
,_

WARNING" spark
Always
stop before
engineperforming
and
disconnect
plug wire
any maintenance or adjustments on the mower.

A list of key maintenance jobs required for good
performance by the mower is given below. Follow the
engine manual for detailed list and instructions.

WARNING"
Never tip mower more than 90
degrees in any direction and do not leave it
tipped for long. Oil can drain into the upper part
of the engine causing a starting problem.

•

Change engine oil after the first two operating
hours and every 25 operating hours thereafter.
Check the oil level before starting the engine every
time.

•

Service foam filter in the air cleaner every 25 hours
of use and replace the paper filter component every
100 hours. You may have to service the air filter
more frequently if you are operating the mower
under extremely dusty conditions.
Clean engine periodically. Remove dirt and debris
with a cloth or brush.
Clean the spark plug and reset the gap to.030" at
least once a season or every 50 hours of operation.
Spark plug replacement is recommended at the
start of each season.
Inspect muffler periodically, and replace if
necessary. Damaged mufflers or spark arresters
can create a fire hazard. Make sure to avoid muffler
and surrounding areas while the mower engine is
hot because temperature of these areas of the
engine may exceed 150 ° F.

CleaningtheLawn Mower
•

Clean the underside of the mower deck after each
use to prevent any build-up of grass clippings. If this
debris is allowed to accumulate, it will result in rust
and corrosion.

•

NOTE: We do not recommend the use of pressure
washers or garden hose to clean your unit. These may
cause damage to pulleys, bearings, or the engine. The
use of water will result in shortened life and reduced

•

serviceability.

•

•
•
•
•

Disconnect spark plug wire. Drain gasoline from the
mower, or place a piece of plastic under gas cap.
Tilt the mower so that the side with the air cleaner is
facing up. Hold the mower firmly.
Scrape and clean the underside of the deck with a
suitable tool. Do not spray with water.
Put the mower back on its wheels. If you had put
plastic under the gas cap, remove it now.

Lubrication (SeeFigure12)
Wheels
•

Lubricate the wheels and bearings, if so equipped,
at least once a season with light oil or engine oil.
Also, if the wheels are removed for any reason,
lubricate the surface of the pivot arm axle and the
inner surface of the wheel with light oil.

Chute Deflector& Rear DischargeDoor
•
Lubricate the torsion springs and the pivot point on
each end of the rear discharge door using a light oil.
This will prevent rusting.

Follow engine manual
for lubrication

Engine
•
Follow the engine manual instructions and
recommended schedule for lubricating engine.
Transmission
•

The transmission is pre-lubricated and sealed at
the factory and does not require lubrication.

Pivot Points
•

Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control
handle, lower bail handle and the cutting height
adjustment lever at least once a season with light
oil. The blade control handle and the lower bail

Lubricate

handle must operate freely in both directions. The
cutting height adjustment levers should be able to
move easily.

Figure 12

SECTION7: SERVICING
YOURLAWNMOWER
BladeCare
Periodically inspect the blade adapter assembly for
cracks, especially if you strike a foreign object. Replace
when necessary.

•
•

Blade
Adapter

blade for sharpening
WARNING"
When or
removing
replacement,
the cutting
protect
hands by using heavy gloves or a thick rag to
grasp the cutting blade.

Blade

Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug.
Turn mower on its side making sure that the air filter
and the carburetor are up.

Blade Bell
Support

To RemoveBlade
•

•

Remove the bolt and the blade bell support that
hold the blade and blade adapter assembly to the
engine crankshaft. See Figure 13.
Remove the blade and the adapter assembly from
the crankshaft.

_Hex
Bolt

Figure 13
To ReplaceBlade:
•

Before reinstalling the blade and adapter assembly
to the unit, lubricate the engine crankshaft and the
inner surface of the adapter with light oil.

•

•
•

•

Be sure to install the blade with the side of the
blade marked "Bottom" (or with part number) facing
the ground when the mower is in the operating
position.
Slide the blade adapter assembly onto the engine
crankshaft.
Place the blade on the adapter. Be certain the
blade is aligned and seated on the blade adapter
flanges.
Place blade bell support on blade. Make sure the
notches on the blade bell support are aligned with
small holes in the blade.

•

Lift the mower to access the belt from the underside
of the mower.

Loosen this screw

Shoulder
/Screw

€

IMPORTANT: The bolt used to secure the blade to the
engine is specially heat-treated. Do not substitute. To
order replacement bolt, refer to the parts list in the back
of this manual.

Screw

WARNING"
To and
ensure
operation
of
your unit, all nuts
boltssafe
must
be checked
periodically for correct tightness.

Figure

BladeMountingTorque:
Center bolt: 450 in.lbs, minimum, 600 in.lbs, maximum.

•

To SharpenBlade:
•

•

The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a
grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen the
blade while it is still on the mower.

•

Slide the belt off the engine pulley and around the
blade. See Figure 15.

WARNING:
As blade
always,
usesliding
a thickthe
piece
rag to handle the
while
belt of
around it. Make sure the engine does not start
at all while doing this job.

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.

IMPORTANT: An unbalanced blade will cause excessive
vibration when rotating at high speeds, may cause
damage to the mower and could break causing
personal injury.
•

Front Drive
Cover

Transmission

Right Front Wheel
Left Front Wheel

Test the blade by balancing it on a round shaft
screwdriver or a blade balancer.
If the blade is not balanced, remove metal from the
heavy side until it balances evenly.

Replacing
DriveBelt
•
•

•

Remove two shoulder screws securing the front
drive cover to the mower deck. See Figure 14.
Press inward on the sides of the front drive cover
and release the tabs that secure the front drive
cover to the height adjuster brackets. Remove drive
cover from the mower.
Using a torx wrench, loosen the screw holding the
belt tension spring to the transmission. See Figure
14. Do not remove the screw completely. As you
loosen it, the tension on the belt will be released.
Push the transmission up a little and slide the belt
off the transmission pulley.

Engine Pulley

Figure 15
•

•
•

Replace with the new belt, working around the
blade. Make sure the belt is firmly seated on the
engine pulley while pulling from the other side and
sliding it around the transmission pulley.
Put the mower down with all four wheels firmly
placed on one level.
Tighten the screw, loosened earlier, to secure belt
tension spring to the transmission and reassemble
the front drive cover.

Replacing
RearFlap
•

•

To remove rear flap, cut off the flat end of the wire
rod which secures it to the deck. See Figure 16.

Attach the new flap and new rod to deck, bending
the ends of the new rod over to secure to deck.

Handle

Door
Rear Discha_

Bracket __

_ _

Rear Flap

Hand,e
Bracket

Figure 16

SECTION8: MAKINGADJUSTMENTS
AdjustingHandleHeight

Your mower is shipped with the handle in the higher
height position. To lower height, proceed as follows.
•
•

•

•
•

•

Remove the starter rope from the rope guide.
Remove the upper handle by removing the hand
knobs and carriage bolts. Lay the upper handle out
of the way, being careful not to bend or kink the
cables.

Notch
Lower
Handle

Remove the hairpin clips from the weld pins on the
handle brackets and remove the wing nuts and
carriage bolts from the upper hole on the handle
mounting bracket. Refer to Figure 4. Press out on
the legs of the lower handle and remove lower
handle from the mower.
Turn the lower handle around so the notch on the

Figure 17

AdjustingCuttingHeight

bottom of the lower handle is facing forward as
shown in Figure 17. Reassemble, placing the
bottom holes in the handle over the weld pins in the
handle mounting bracket.
Reassemble the upper handle to the lower handle.
Insert hairpin clips in the inner holes of the weld
pins and insert the carriage bolts in the upper hole
on the handle mounting bracket and secure with
plastic wing nuts.
Attach the starter rope as instructed in "Assembling
Your Lawn Mower" section.

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.
An adjusting plate and thumb lever at each wheel
position provides cutting height adjustment. Each
adjusting plate has nine height positions. Height of cut
will change when you move the thumb lever from one
position to another.

Simply depress the lever towards the wheel and
move the lever assembly to desired position. See
Figure 18.

AdjustingCarburetor
NOTE: A dirty air cleaner may cause an engine to run
rough too. Make sure that the air cleaner is clean and
attached to the carburetor before deciding to adjust the
carburetor.

ght

WARNING:
any adjustments
are engine
made tois
the
engine (e.g.Ifcarburetor)
while the
running, keep clear of all moving parts. Be
careful of heated surfaces like the muffler.

To adjust carburetor, please follow the engine manual.

Figure 18

SECTION9: OFF-SEASON
STORAGE
Gasoline

Prepare your lawn mower for storage at the end of the
season or if the unit will not be used for 30 days or
more. Store the mower in a clean, dry area.

•

NOTE: Gasoline, stored more than one month, may
affect engine performance.

Mower
•

Do not store gasoline from one season to another.

Clean underside of the mower according to
instructions on page 12.

Replace your gasoline can if it starts to rust. Rust
and/or dirt in the gasoline will cause problems.
Store unit in a clean, dry area. Do not store next to
corrosive materials, such as fertilizer or rocksalt.

NOTE: We do not recommend the use of pressure
washers or garden hose to clean your unit. They may
cause damage to pulleys, bearings, or the engine. The
use of water will result in shortened life and reduce
serviceability.

NOTE: If storing the mower in an unventilated or metal
storage shed, make sure to rustproof the equipment
with a light oil or silicone.

•
•

Engine

•

Lubricate the mower as instructed on page 13.
You can fold your mower's handle for convenience
of storage by following directions below:
Remove the starter rope from the rope
guide; loosen two hand knobs on two
sides of the handle, and let the upper
handle fold down to the rear. Move the

•

hairpin clips to the outer hole in the
weld pins on the handle mounting
brackets. Spread the sides of the lower
handle, and push it forward and down.
Inspect and replace/sharpen blade, if required.
Refer to page 13.

Follow recommendations in the accompanying
engine manual for off-season storage of the
engine.

SECTION10: TROUBLE-SHOOTING
GUIDE
Problem
Engine fails to start

Possible Cause

Corrective Action

1.
2.
3.
4.

Blade control handle disengaged
Spark plug wire disconnected
Fuel tank empty, or stale fuel
Blocked fuel line

1.
2.
3.
4.

Engage blade control handle.
Connect wire to spark plug.
Fill up tank with fresh gasoline.
Clean fuel line.

5.
6.

Faulty spark plug
Engine flooded

5.
6.

Clean, adjust gap, or replace.
Wait a few minutes and start again.

1.
2.

Spark plug wire loose
Blocked fuel line or stale fuel

1.
2.

3.
4.
5.

Vent in gas cap plugged
Water or dirt in fuel system
Dirty air cleaner

3.
4.
5.

Connect and tighten spark plug wire.
Clean fuel line, fill tank with clean,
fresh gasoline.
Clear vent.
Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.
Clean air cleaner. Refer to engine
manual.

Engine overheats

1.
2.

Engine oil level low
Air flow restricted

1.
2.

Fill crankcase with proper oil.
Clean lawn mower engine.

Occasional skip
(hesitates) at high
speed

Spark plug gap too close

Adjust gapto.030

Idles poorly

Spark plug fouled, faulty, or gap too
wide

Engine runs erratic

inches.

Reset gap to.030 inches or replace
spark plug.
Clean air cleaner.

Dirty air cleaner

Excessive vibration

1.
2.
3.

Cutting blade loose or unbalanced
Bent cutting blade
Bent engine crankshaft

1.
2.
3.

Tighten and balance blade.
Replace blade.
Contact your nearest service center.

Mower will not
mulch grass

1.
2.

Wet grass
Excessively high grass

1.
2.

Dull blade

Wait until grass is dry to cut.
Mow once at a high cutting height,
then mow again at desired height.
Sharpen or replace blade.

1.
2.

Wheels not in same height position
Dull blade

Uneven cut

1.
2.

Reposition all wheels at same height.
Sharpen or replace blade.

NOTE: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments fisted above, contact your nearest authorized service dealer.

SECTION11: PARTSLISTFORMODELSERIES440

1
15

911-

I
I

41@

77
89
I

_ ."

"_"

37 I_59
71

\
68

Wheel Treads

1 If Equipped
Zag Tread Wheel

Bar Tread Wheel

ModelSeries440
Ref,
No
1
2
3
4
5
6
7

9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
18.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.

Part No.
747-1214
747-1161A
749-1092A
750-04162
664-04007
710-1650
746-1113
746-0550
746-1132
746-1114
746-1141
749-0928A
746-04112
747-04035
710-1174
720-0284
736-0451
720-0279
710-1205
631-0075B
714-0104
731-1236
732-0700
732-04089
782-5003
710-1017
732-04090
710-1652
720-0426
747-04080
712-0397
710-0703
787-01144
787-01143
687-02071
687-02070
732-0706
732-0707
738-0507B
726-0240
732-1043

Ref.
No

Description
Lower Bail Handle
Blade Control Handle

41.
42.
43.
44.
53.

Upper Handle
Spacer.390 x.810 x.950"
Grass Bag
Shoulder Screw
Control Cable: 37.75"
Control Cable: 39"
Control Cable: 40.75"
Control Cable: 50.56"
Control Cable: 58.25"
Lower Handle
Drive Cable
Rear Door Pivot Rod

54.
56.
57.
58.
59.
60.
62.
64.
65.
66.

Carriage Bolt
Handle Knob
Saddle Washer
Wing Nut
Rope Guide
Engine Spacer Assembly
Hairpin Clip
Rear Trail Shield
Trail Shield Wire

68.
69.
70.
71.
72.
73.
74.
75.
76.
77.

Torsion Spring LH
Rear Baffle LH
Screw 1/4-14 x 0.625"
Torsion Spring RH
Hex Screw w/Wash. 1/4-20 x 0.625"
Knob
Grass Catcher Frame

78.
79.
80.
83.
84.
85.
86.
88.
89.
90.
91.

Wing Nut
Hex Carriage Screw
Handle Bracket RH
Handle Bracket LH
Pivot Arm Assembly RH
Pivot Arm Assembly LH
Front Lever RH
Front Lever LH
Shoulder Screw
Cable Tie

Part No.

Description

787-01007
754-0637A
782-5002A
618-0657
731-04683
731-04671
715-04011
682-0015
736-0447
782-0512B
782-0511A
687-02044
748-04015A
742-0741
710-0216
715-0221
717-1762
717-1761
712-0431
716-0865
782-7551
716-0102
736-0474
756-04017
710-1257
736-0524B
782-5004A
750-1166
750-04178
687-02068
687-02069
731-04134
732-04175
710-1008
682-0512A
682-0511A

Rear Discharge Deck, 21"
V-Belt
Front Baffle

720-0249_
OEM-190-104_

Hub Cap, Gray (Fits Zag Tread Wheels)
Chute Deflector Accessory

Transmission Assembly
Front Drive Cover
Front Drive Cover (w/ Self-Propelled)
Roll Pin
Bearing Assembly
Wave Washer
Height Adj. Plate RH
Height Adj. Plate LH
Pivot Plate Assembly
Blade Adapter / Pulley Assembly
Mulching Blade w/Star, 21"
Hex Screw
Dowel Pin
Gear 14T RH
Gear 14T LH
Hex Nut, 3/8-16
Snap Ring
Wheel Dust Cap
Snap Ring
Washer, 1.5" O.D.
Input Pulley
Hex Bolt, 3/8-24 x 2.5
Bell Blade Support
Rear Baffle RH
Slev. Spacer LH
Slev. Spacer RH
Handle Bracket Assembly RH
Handle Bracket Assembly LH
Chute Door
Spring Lever
Self-tapping Screw, 3/8-16 x 1.875
Height Adj. Assembly RH
Height Adj. Assembly LH
Front Wheel
Rear Wheel

Belt Tension Spring
_lfEquipped

WheelChart
Type
Rear w/o bearing
Front w/o bearing
Rear w/ball bearing
Front w/o bearing

Part No.
734-1987
634-0190
734-2004A
734-2042

Wheel Size
8"x 1.8"
8"x 1.8"
8" x 2.125"
8" x 2.125"

Tread
Bar
Bar
Zag
Zag

Geared
No
Yes
No
Yes

IMPORTANT:
For a proper working machine, use
Factory Approved Parts.
V-BELTS
are specially designed to engage and
disengage safely. A substitute (non OEM) V-Belt can
be dangerous by not disengaging completely.

MANUFACTURER'S

LIMITED WARRANTY

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 wilt, 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 are warranted to be free from defects in
material and workmanship for a period of thirty (30) days from
the date of purchase. Normal wear parts include, but not
limited to items such as: 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 1330-220-4683 or tog 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.
Log splitter pumps, valves, and cylinders have a
separate one year warranty.
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

FOR:

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 parts.
Transportation charges and service calls.

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 toss, damage, or injury to
you and your property and/or 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.

exposure.
Service completed by someone other than an
authorized service dealer.

MTD LLC, P.O.BOX361131CLEVELAND,OHIO44136-0019; Phone:1-800-800-7310,1-330-220-4683

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MTD 12A 449R729 User Manual LAWN MOWER Manuals And Guides 1107431L

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