MTD 12A 453E700 User Manual LAWN MOWER Manuals And Guides 1108643L

User Manual: MTD 12A-453E700 12A-453E700 MTD LAWN MOWER - Manuals and Guides View the owners manual for your MTD LAWN MOWER #12A453E700. 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" Rotary Mower-

Model Series 440 & 450

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.770-10134G
1/17/2005

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

3
4
6
8

Maintaining Your Lawn Mower .........................
Trouble Shooting ..............................................
Off-Season Storage and Safety Labels ..........
Parts List ...........................................................

Finding and Recording Model Number
BEFOREYOU START ASSEMBLING
YOUR NEW EQUIPMENT,
please locate the model plate on the equipment and copy the
information to 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
information will be necessary to use the manufacturer's web
site and/or obtain assistancefrom the Customer Support
Department or an authorized service dealer.

Model Number

Serial Number

MTD LLC
P.O= BOX
CLEVELAND,
330-220-4683
800-800-7310

www.mtdproducts.com

361131
OH 44136

Customer Support
Please do NOTreturn
purchased,

without

the unit to the retailer
first contacting

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:

from which

Customer

it was

Support.

Click here to search our knowledge base.
Search by product, keyword, or phrase.

1. Visit mtdproducts.com
for many useful suggestions.
Click on Customer Support button and you will get the four
options reproduced in this sample to the right. Click on the
appropriate button and help is immediatelyavailable.

2. Phone a Customer Support Representative
at 1(800) 800-7310.

Need local assistance?

Click here to find authorized

service centers in your area.

3. The engine manufacturer is responsiblefor all enginerelated issueswith regards to performance, power-rating,
specifications, warranty and service. Please refer to the
engine manufacturer'sOwner's/Operator's Manual, packed
separately with your unit, for more information.

Need a manual and/or parts list? Download

literature from recent model years.
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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

6. Alwayswearsafetyglasses or safetygogglesduringoperation andwhile performingan adjustmentor repairto protect
youreyes. Thrownobjectswhich ricochetcan causeserious
injury to the eyes.

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.

7. Wearsturdy, rough-soledworkshoesand close-fitting
slacksandshirts. Shirtsand pantsthatcoverthe arms and
legs andsteel-toedshoesare recommended.Neveroperate
this machinein bare feet,sandals, slipperyor lightweight
(e.g. canvas)shoes.
8. Do not put hands or feet near rotatingparts or undercutting
deck. Contactwithblade can amputatehands andfeet.

3. Beforeand whilemovingbackwards,look behindanddown
forsmallchildren.

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

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

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.

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.

6. Neverallowchildrenunder14 yearsoldto operatea power
mower.Children14 yearsoldand overshouldreadand
understandoperationinstructionsandsafetyrulesinthis
manualandshouldbe trainedandsupervisedbya parent.

General

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.

Operation

1. Readthis operator'smanual carefully inits entiretybefore
attemptingto assemblethis machine.Read,understand,
andfollowall instructionson the machineandin the

b. Be sure youare well balancedwithsurefooting.
c. Pullthe mowerback slowly,no morethan half way
toward you.

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.

d. Repeatthesesteps as needed.
12. Do not operatethe mowerwhileunderthe influenceof
alcoholor drugs.

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 and
otherforeignobjectswhichcould be tripped overor picked
up andthrown by the blade.Thrownobjectscan cause
seriouspersonalinjury.Plan yourmowingpatternto avoid
dischargeof materialtoward roads,sidewalks,bystanders
andthe like.Also, avoiddischargingmaterialagainsta
wall or obstructionwhich may causedischargedmaterial
to ricochet backtoward the 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.

13. Do not engage the self-propelledmechanismon units so
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 engineoff andwait untilthe bladecomesto a
completestop beforeremovingthe 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.

7. Extinguishall cigarettes,cigars, pipesand othersources
of ignition.

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.

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

8. Neverfuel machineindoorsbecauseflammablevapors will
accumulatein the area.

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.

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.

Practices

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.

Slope Operation
Slopesare a majorfactor relatedto slip andfallaccidentswhich
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.

General Service:
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.

Do:
1. Mowacrossthe face of slopes; neverup anddown.
Exerciseextremecaution when changingdirectionon
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

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 overspeedthe
engine.The governorcontrolsthe maximumsafe operating
speedof the engine.
11. Maintainor replacesafetylabels,as necessary.

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.

12. Observeproperdisposallawsand regulations.Improper
disposalof fluidsand materialscan harmthe environment.

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.
Whenyou see this
symbol.
HEED iTS WARNING

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

1. Removeanypackingmaterialwhich may be between
upperand lowerhandles.
a. Pull up and backon upperhandleas shownin
Step 1.Makecertainthe lowerhandleis seated
securelyintothe handle mountingbrackets.
b. Tightenhandknobs securingupperhandleto
lowerhandle.Make surethat eachcarriagebolt is
seatedproperlyin the handle.
2. Locatehairpinclip in one holeon the weldpin on each
sideof lowerhandle.
a. Removehairpinclipfrom this hole.Usinga pair of
pliers,insert hairpinclip intothe other holeon the
weldpin. Repeaton otherside.

NOTE:Standbehind
themowerasifyou
weregoingtooperate
it.Yourrighthandcorresponds
totheright
sideofthemower;your
lefthandcorresponds
totheleftsideofthe
mower.

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.

Step 1

HardwarePack

a. Holdthe blade controlagainstupperhandle.
CarriageBolts (2)

b. Pull starterropeout of the engine.Releasethe
bladecontrol.
c. Slip starterrope into ropeguide.Tightenwingnut.
4. Insertpost on cable ties intoholes providedon the
lowerhandle.Pull cabletie tight and trim excess.

NOTE:Yourmower
i isshippedwiththe
handleinthehigher
I heightposition.
NOTE:Eachendof
thelowerhandlemust
beplacedinthesame
i relativeposition.

The ropeguide is attachedto the right sideof the
upperhandle.Loosenthe wingnut which securesthe
rope guide.

Step 2

IMPORTANT
DO NOTcrimp the
I cables when lifting the
handle up.

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

Step 3

Step 4

5. An adjustingplateand thumb leverat each wheel
positionprovidescuttingheightadjustment.
a. Depresslevertowardswheel.
b. Moveit to anyof the ninepositionsfor desired
cutting height.SeeStep 5.
c. Releaselevertowardsmowerdeck.
6. Followstepsbelowto assemblethe grasscatcher:
a. Placebag overframe sothat its black plasticside
is at the bottom.

uStment

b. Slip plasticchannelof grass bagoverhooks on the
frame.See Step6. All the plasticchannelsexcept
centertop of bagattachfrom outsideof bag.
c. Attachcentertop of bag from insideof bag.
7. Followstepsbelowto attachgrass catcher:
a. Lift rear dischargedoor.

CUTTING HEIGHT

Step 5

Step5

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

All wheelsmust be
placedin the same
relative positionl

catcher.See Step7.
To removegrass catcheror convertto a mulcher(if
equipped),lift rear dischargedoor on the moweras
shown in Step8. Lift grass catcherup and out of the pivot
rod.Releasereardischargedoorto allow it to close rear
openingof mower.

GRASS
CATCHER

Step8
Makecertain bag is
turned right side out
before assembling
(warning label Willbe
on the outside)i

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

J
Step 6

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

Step 7

Know Your Lawn Mower
Blade Control
Drive Control

Recoil Starter -_

Grass Bag -_

Oil Fill/Dipstick

WARNING
The blade control
mechanism is a
safety device. Never
attempt to bypass its
operations.

Gasoline Fill
tLAdjustment
evers

I Use extreme care
when handling
gasoline. Gasoline is
extremely flammable
and the vapors are
explosive. Never fuel
the machine indoors
or while the engine
is hot or running.
Extinguish cigarettes,
cigars, pipes and
other sources of

Figure 1
Now that you have set up your lawn mower for operation, get aquainted with its controls and features.
These are described below and illustrated on this

Cutting

page. This knowledge will allow you to use your
new equipment to its fullest potential.

Recoil
Blade Control

Levers

Starter

Gas and Oil Fill-Up
1. Check oil level and add oil if necessary. Follow engine
manual for this. See Figure 1 above for location of the
oil fill.

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

Adjustment

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

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

Height

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

nism is a safetydevice. Never attempt
WARNING:Thisbladecontrolmechato bypass its operations.

2. Servicethe enginewith gasolineas instructedin the
enginemanual. See Figure1 abovefor locationof
gasfill.

Drive Control
The drive control is located on the underside of
the upper handle and is used to engage the drive.
Squeeze it against the upper handle to engage the
drive; release it to slow down or stop mower from
propelling. See Figure 1.

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

WARNING:The operationof any lawn
mowercan result in foreignobjects
being thrownintothe eyes,whichcan
damageyoureyes severely.Always
wear safetyglasseswhileoperating
the mower,or while performing any
adjustmentsor repairson it.

Starting

Engine

Mower

WARNING:Besure no one otherthan
the operatoris standingnear the lawn
mower whilestartingengine or operatingmower. 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 lawnmower.

Figure 2

_klL
1. Pushprimerthreetimes.Wait abouttwo seconds
betweeneachpush. See Figure2. Intemperature
around550F or below,primefive times.Do not prime
to restarta warm engine.
2. Standingbehindthe mower,squeezethe bladecontrol
againstupper handle.See Figure2.

object,stop the engine.Remove
ARNING:if
strike
a foreign
wire
from the you
spark
plug,thoroughly
inspectmower for any damage, and
repair damage before restarting and
operating. Extensive vibration of
mower during operation is an indication of damage.The unit should be
promptlyinspectedand repaired.

3. Holdingthesetwo handlestogetherfirmly,grasp recoil
starterhandleand pull ropeout with a rapid,continu- 1. Oncethe engineis running,squeezethedrive
ous, full arm stroke.See Figure2. Keepinga firm
controlagainstthe upperhandleto propelmower.
grip on the starterhandle,let the rope rewindslowly.
2. Forbest results,do notcut wet grass.
Repeatuntil enginecranks.Letthe roperewindeach
3. Fora healthierlawn, nevercut off morethan onetime slowly.
thirdof the total lengthof the grass.

Stopping

Engine

Using

as Mulcher (if Equipped)
Formulchinggrass,removethe grasscatcherfrom the
mower.Therear dischargedoor shouldbe closed.

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

1. Foreffectivemulching,do notcut wet grass.

__lk

UsingYour

2. Newor thick grassmay requirea narrowercut.
Adjustgroundspeedaccordingto conditionof lawn.

completelybefore doing any work
ARNING:Wait for the blade to stop
on the mower or to removethe grass
catcher.

3. if thegrass has beenallowedto growinexcessof
4 inches,mulchingisnot recommended.Usethe
grasscatcherto bag clippingsinstead.

Using

Lawn Mower

Grass Catcher

Youcan usethe grass catcherto collectclippingswhile
youare operatingthe mower.
,__lh

without eitherthe rear door or the entire 1. Attachgrasscatcherfollowinginstructionson page
WARNING:Never operate your mower
7.Grassclippingswill automaticallycollectin bag as
grass catcher assembly firmly secured.
you run mower.Operatemowertill grass bag is full.
2. Stopenginecompletelyby releasingthe blade
controlhandle.Makesurethat the unit hascometo

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

a completestop.
3. Lift dischargedoor and pull grassbag up and away
fromthe mowerto disposeof the grass clippings.

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
n 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.

Lubrication
1. Lubricatepivot pointson theblade controlhandleat
least oncea seasonwith lightoil. The bladecontrol
mustoperatefreely inboth directions.See Figure3.
\
\\

Maintaining

2. Lubricatethe wheelsat least oncea seasonwith
lightoil (or motoroil). If wheelsare removedfor any
reason,lubricatesurfaceof the pivotarm and inner
surfaceof thewheelwith light oil. See Figure3.

Lubricate these
points before

3. Lubricatethe torsionspringand pivot pointon the rear
dischargedoor periodicallywith lightoil to prevent
rust.See Figure3.
4. Thetransmissionis pre-lubricatedand sealedat the
factoryand does not requirelubrication.

.....

5. Followtheaccompanyingengine manualfor lubrication scheduleand instruction
for engine lubrication.
J

Deck Care

Figure 3

1. Disconnectsparkplug wire. Draingasolinefrom lawn
mower,or placea pieceof plasticunderthe gas cap.
2. Tip mowersothat itrestson the housing.Keepthe
sidewith the air cleanerfacingup. Hold mowerfirmly.

WARNING

than 90 degrees in any directions and
ARNING:Never tip the mowermore
do not leavethe mower tipped for any
length of time. Oil can drain intothe
upper part of the enginecausing a
starting problem.

A vays
stop
e,g ne;
disconnect spark

pluglandground
againstenginebefore
cleaning,lubricating

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

ordoing
anyk nd
of

maintenance
onV0ur
General

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

Figure 4

machine!

Recommendations

1. Alwaysobservesafetyruleswhen performing
anymaintenance.

Engine

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

2. Serviceair cleanerevery25 hoursundernormal
conditions.Cleaneveryfew hoursunderextremely
dustyconditions.Referto engine manual.
3. Cleansparkplug and resetthegap once a season.
Checkenginemanualfor correctplugtype and gap
specifications.

3. Changingof engine-governedspeedwill void
enginewarranty.

We do not recommend
the used pressure
washers or garden
hose to clean your
uniL These may cause
damage to electric

componentsspindles
pu

eys;bear ngs, or

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

4. All adjustmentsshouldbe checkedat leastonce
eachseason.
.

Periodicallycheckall fastenersand makesurethese
are tight.

WARNING:Alwaysstop engine,
disconnect spark plug, and ground
against engine before cleaning,
lubricatingor doing any kind of
maintenance on your machine.

Care

1. Maintainoil levelas instructedin enginemanual.

Replacing

Rear Flap

1. Toremoverearflap, cut off the flat end of the wire rod
whichsecuresit to the deck.See Figure4.
2. Attachthe newflapand newrod to deck, bendingthe
endsof the new rod overto secureto deck.

the engine. The use
of water will result in
shortened lifeand
i reduceserViceabilityl
10

I
r

Blade Care

__IL

bladefor sharpeningor replacement,
ARNING:Whenremovingcutting
protectyourhandswith a pairof heavy
gloves or use a heavy rag to hold blade.
_ _

i i iii

_ _

Maintaining

1. Disconnectsparkplug wirefrom spark plug.Turn
moweron itsside makingsurethat the air filter and
the carburetorare up.

You r LaWn

MOwer

2. Removebolt, blade bell support,blade,and blade
adapterfrom the enginecrankshaft.See Figure5.
3. The bladecan be sharpenedwith a fileor on a grinding wheel.Do notattemptto sharpenthe blade while
it is still on the mower.Whensharpeningblade,follow
originalangle of grind.Grind cuttingedgesequallyto
keep bladebalanced.

Figure 5

4. Removebladefrom the adapterfor testingbalance.
Balancethe bladeon a roundshaftscrewdriverto
check. Removemetalfrom the heavysideuntil it
balancesevenly.

WARNING

causeexcessive vibration when rotating
WARNING:An
blade
will
at
high speeds,unbalanced
it may cause
damage

to mower,and could break causing
personalinjury.
5. Lubricatetheenginecrankshaftand the inner surface
of the blade adapterwith lightoil. Slide the blade
adapteronto the enginecrankshaft.Placethe blade
on theadaptersuch that the sideof the blade marked
"Bottom"(or with part number)facesthe groundwhen
the moweris in the operatingposition.Makesurethat
blade is alignedand seatedon bladeadapterflanges.

Figure 6

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

6. Placeblade bell supporton the blade.Align notches
on the bladebell supportwith smallholesin blade.
Replacehex boltand tightenhex boltto torque:450
in. Ibs. rain.,600 in. Ibs.max.

An unbalanced blade
will cause excessive
vibration when rotat-

Toensuresafe operationof yourmower,periodically
checkthe blade boltfor correcttorque.

ing at high speeds. It
may cause damage
to mower, and could
break causing personal injury.

Belt Care
1. Removetwo shoulderscrewssecuringfrontdrive
cover to mowerdeck.See Figure6. Pressinwardon
sides of front drivecoverand releasetabs that secure
it to the heightadjusterbrackets.Removedrivecover
from mower.
.

Figure 7

Loosenscrewholdingbelttensionspringto trans4. Replacewith newbelt, workingaround blade.Make
mission.See Figure6 inset.Donot removescrew
surebelt is firmlyseatedon engine pulleywhile
completely.As youloosenit, tensionon the belt will be
pullingfrom the othersideand slidingit aroundthe
released.
transmissionpulley.Tightenscrewloosenedearlier
to securebelt tensionspringto the transmission.
Pushtransmissionup a little and slidebelt off the
Reassemblefront drivecover.
transmissionpulley.Lift mowerto access beltfrom
undersideof mower.Slide beltoff of enginepulleyand
aroundthe blade.See Figure7.

Problem

Cause

Enginefails to start

Remedy

1. Bladecontrol handledisengaged•

1. Engageblade controlhandle•

2. Sparkplugwire disconnected,
3. Fueltank emptyor stale fuel•

2. Connectwireto spark plug•
3. Fil tank w th clean,fresh gasoline•

4. Engne not primed•

4. Primeengineas instructedin
"Operatng YourLawnMower"•

Shooting
Engineruns erratic

For repairs beyond

the mbor
ments listed here,
contact an authorized
service dealer.

Engine overheats

5. Faultysparkplug.

5. C ean adjust gap or repace.

6. B ockedfuel line,
.....
/ t-ngne Tooaea.

6. Cleanfuel ine.
7 Wat a few m nutesto restart but
do notprime.

1. Sparkplug wireloose.

1. Connectand tightenspark
plug wire.

2. Blockedfuelline or stale fuel.

2. Cleanfuel line;fill tank with clean,
fresh gasoline.

3. Ventin gas cap plugged.

3. Clearvent.

4. Wateror dirt in fuel system.

4. Drainfuel tank. Refillwith
fresh fuel.

5. Dirty air cleaner.

5. Referto enginemanual.

6. Carburetorout of adjustment.

6. Referto enginemanual.

1. Engineo level low

1. Fillcrankcasewth properoil.

2. Air flow restrcted.
I
•

Occasional skips
(hesitates) at
high speed

2. Removeblowerhousing
I

3. Carburetornotadjustedproperly.

and clean.
3. Referto enginemanual.

1. Sparkplug gap tooclose.

1. Adjustgap to .030".

2. Carburetoridle mixtureadjustment

2. Referto enginemanual.

improperlyset.

des poor y

1. Sparkplugfouled faultyor gap

1. Resetgap to .030' or replace

toowide
I
'

Excessive
Vibration

2 Carburetor mproperyadjusted
3. Dirty air cleaner.

spark plug.
I
•

2 Refer to eng ne manua
3. Referto enginemanual.

1. Cuttingbladelooseor unbalanced.

1. Tightenblade and adapter.
Balanceblade.

2. Bentcuttingblade.

2. See an authorizedservicedealer.

Mower will not

1. Wetgrass.

mulch grass (If

1. Do not mowwhengrass is wet
wait untillaterto cut.

Equ pped)

2. Excessivelyh gh grass.

2. thenM°W
mow°nCe
againat
a hatghdesiredCutt
ngheighthe
ght,
or makea narrowercuttingpath.

i_i i_ii!_iiii_
i iii_i_iii!i
iii !iii! i_i!
i_i

i i

Unevencut

Mower wi not
f

se pope

3• Dull blade"

3. Sharpenor replaceblade.

1. Wheelsnot positionedcorrectly.

1. Placeall fourwheelsin same
heightposition.

2. Dull blade.

2. Sharpenor replaceblade.

1. Belt notinstalledpropery.

1. Checkbelt for properpulleyinstalaton and movement

I
3, Damagedor worn belt.

2• Stop
pluc
. engine disconnectspark
.

2. Debriscloggingdrive operation.
I

_ ,wireana cleanou, a,eDrl.S.
:_. inspectana replaceDe I.

Off-Season Storage
The followingstepsshouldbe taken to prepareyour lawn
mowerfor storage.
1. Cleanand lubricatemowerthoroughlyas describedin
the lubricationinstructions.
2. We do not recommendthe useof a pressurewasher
or gardenhoseto cleanyour unit.
3. Referto enginemanualfor correctengine
storageinstructions.

4. Coat mower'scuttingblade with chassisgreaseto
preventrusting.
5. 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.

_iii

i__ i iii

ii_

Safety Labels Found On Your Lawn Mower

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

747-1161A Blade Control

746-1132

ControlCable- 40.75"

749-1092A UpperHandle

746-1114

ControlCable- 50.56"

747-04080

GrassCatcherFrame

35 756-04017

input Pulley

749-0928A LowerHandle

36 731-04998

Trailshield

720-0279

WingNut

37 732-0700

TrailshieldWire

710-1205

RopeGuide

38 712-0397

WingNut, 1/4-20

710-1174

CarriageBolt ,5/16-18x 2

39 747-04035

RearDoorPivot Rod

664-04007

Grass BagAssembly

40 732-04175

Spring Lever

720-0284

HandKnob

41 687-02071

PivotArm Assembly- RH

687-02070

PivotArm Assembly- LH

10 736-0451

SaddleWasher

11 726-0240

CableTie

42 710-1652

AB Screw

12 710-0703

CarriageBolt,I/4-20

43 712-0431

FlangeLock Nut,3/8-16

13 731-04134A RearDischargeDoor

44 714-0104

HairpinClip

14 750-04162

45 710-0654A TT SemsScrew,3/8-16x 1.00

Spacer

15 732-04089A TorsionSpring- LH

46 682-0511A Ht. Adj.Assy. Front- LH

16 732-04090A TorsionSpring- RH

682-0512A Ht. Adj.Assy. Front- RH

17:1:

RearWheel

47 687-02069

RearHandleBracketAssy.- LH

18 731-04150

RearBaffle

687-02068

RearHandleBracketAssy.- RH

19 720-0249t

Hubcap,ZagTread(Not Shown)

48 747-1214

Drive Control

731-0981At Hubcap,Bar Tread(Not Shown)

49 710-1650

ShoulderScrew

20 787-01277

Deck- 21"

50 746-04112A Drive Cable

21 731-2626

Bail Cover

51 754-0637A V-Belt

22 782-5002B FrontBaffle

52 618-0657

23 748-04015A BladeAdapterw/Pulley

53 731-05132A Front DriveCover

24 742-0641

21"StandardBlade

742-0741t

21"MulchingBlade

54 732-1043

BeltTensionSpring

Hex Bolt, 3/8-24x 2.5

55 682-0015

BearingAssembly

Pivot PlateAssembly

56 736-0447

WaveWasher

27 736-0524B Blade Bell Support

57 710-0216

Hex Screw

28 782-0512B HeightAdjustmentPlate- RH

58 715-0221

DowelPin

782-0511A HeightAdjustmentPlate- LH

59 717-1762

Gear,14T- RH

717-1761

Gear,14T- LH

25 710-1257
26 687-02044

731-05013

TransmissionAssembly

AdjustmentLeverKnob

30 732-0706

FrontLever-RH

60 716-0865

732-0707

FrontLever- LH

61 782-7551A WheelDustCap

31 738-04136

ShoulderScrew

62 716-0102

Snap Ring

32 _

FrontWheel

63 736-0474

Washer,1.5"OD

33 710-04371

Screw,1/4-15x 1.250

64 750-1166

SleeveSpacer- LH

34 746-1113

ControlCable-37.75"

65 750-04178

SleeveSpacer- RH

ControlCable- 39"

66 715-04011

Roll Pin

t If equipped
:1:Referto
WheelChart

Snap Ring

Type

Wheel Chart
Part No.

Tread

Rearw/o bearing

734-1987,8 x 1.8

Bar

Frontw/o bearing

634-0190,8 x 1.8

Bar

Rearw/ball bearing

734-2004A,8 x 2.125

Zag

Frontw/o bearing

734-2042,8 x 2.125

Zag

For a operWerking
machine; use Factory
Approved Parts:
V-BELTS are Specially
designed to engage
and disengage safelyl
A substitute (nOnOEM)
ViBelt can be dangeri
ousby not disengaging
€omp etelyl

Front DriveCoverw/Sir Prop Label

29 720-0426

746-0550

MPORTANT

To order replacement
parts, contact 1-800800-7310 or visit www.
mtdproducts.com.

MANUFACTURER'S

LiMiTED WARRANTY

FOR

The limitedwarrantyset forth belowisgivenby MTDLLCwith respectto
newmerchandisepurchasedand usedin the UnitedStates,its possessionsand territories.

e. MTDdoes notextendany warrantyfor productssoldor exported
outsideof the UnitedStates,its possessionsand territories,except
those soldthroughMTD'sauthorizedchannelsof exportdistribution.

"MTD"warrantsthis productagainstdefectsin materialand workmanship
for a periodof two (2) yearscommencingon the dateof originalpurchase
and will, at its option,repairor replace,free of charge,anypart foundto
be defectivein materialsor workmanship.This limitedwarrantyshallonly
applyif this producthas beenoperatedand maintainedin accordance
with the Operator'sManualfurnishedwith the product,and has not been
subjectto misuse,abuse,commercialuse, neglect,accident,improper
maintenance,alteration,vandalism,theft, fire,water,or damagebecause
of otherperil or naturaldisaster.Damageresultingfrom the installationor
useof any part, accessoryor attachmentnotapprovedby MTDfor use
with the product(s)coveredbythis manualwill voidyourwarrantyas 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,bladeadapters,grass bags, riderdeck wheels,seats, snow
throwerskid shoes,shaveplates,augerspiralrubberand 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 44136-0019,or
call 1-800-800-7310 or 1-330-220-4683 or log on to our Web site at
www.mtdproducts.com.
This limitedwarrantydoesnot providecoveragein the followingcases:
a. Theengineor componentparts thereof.These itemsmaycarry a
separatemanufacturer'swarranty.Referto applicablemanufacturer's
warrantyfor termsand conditions.

f. Replacementpartsthat are not genuineMTDparts.

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 use
or exposure.

g. Transportationchargesand servicecalls.
No impliedwarranty,includingany impliedwarranty of merchantability of fitness for a particularpurpose,applies after the applicable
periodof express written warranty above as to the partsas identified. No other express warranty, whether written or oral, except as
mentionedabove, givenby any personor entity,includinga dealer
or retailer,with respect to any product,shallbind MTD. Duringthe
periodof the warranty, the exclusive remedyis repairor replacement
of the productas set forth above.
The provisionsas set forth in this warranty providethe sole and
exclusive remedy arising from the sale. MTDshall not be liable
for incidentalor consequential loss or damage including,without
limitation, expenses incurredfor substitute or replacementlawn care
services or for rentalexpenses to temporarily replacea warranted
product.
Somestatesdo not allowtheexclusionor limitationof incidentalor
consequentialdamages,or limitationson howlong an impliedwarranty
lasts, so the aboveexclusionsor limitationsmay notapplyto you.
In no eventshall recoveryof any kind be greaterthan theamountof the
purchasepriceof the productsold. Alterationof safetyfeatures of the
productshall void this warranty. Youassumethe risk and liability for
loss, damage,or injuryto youand your propertyand/orto others and their
propertyarisingout of the misuseor inabilityto use theproduct.
This limitedwarrantyshall notextendto anyoneotherthanthe original
purchaseror to the personfor whom itwas purchasedas a gift.
HOW STATELAWRELATESTO THISWARRANTY: This limitedwarrantygives youspecificlegal rights,and you mayalso haveother rights
which vary from stateto state.
IMPORTANT: OwnermustpresentOriginalProofof 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 12A 453E700 User Manual LAWN MOWER Manuals And Guides 1108643L

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