MTD 12A 559Q795 User Manual LAWN MOWER Manuals And Guides 1108496L

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

A

O

A

21-inch Self-Propelled

Mower-

AL

Model 559

iMPORTANT
READ SAFETY

RULES AND iNSTRUCTiONS

CAREFULLY

BEFORE

OPERATION

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

PRINTEDIN U.S.A

MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND,

OHIO 44136-0019

FORMNO. 769-02308
12/15/05

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
...............................................
Off-Season Storage .........................................
Safety Labels ....................................................
Parts List ...........................................................
Warranty ............................................

12
13
13
14

Back Cover

Finding and Recording Model Number
BEFOREYOU BEGIN TO ASSEMBLE YOUR NEW EQUIPMENT, please locate the model plate on the equipment and
copy the informationto the sample model plate providedto
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, to obtain assistance from the Customer Support
Department, or when contacting an authorized service dealer.

Model Number

Serial Number

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

,. www.mtdproducts.com

Customer Support
Please do NOTreturn
purchased,

without

the unit to the retailer
first contacting

from which

Customer

it was

Support.

If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regardingthe controls, operation,or maintenanceof this
unit, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:
1. Visit www.mtdproducts.com.
Support menu option.

Click on the Customer

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
separatelywith your unit, for more information.

2. Phone a Customer Support Representativeat
1-800-800-7310.

2

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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'smanualcarefullyin its 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,helpers,and pets at least75 feet from 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.

4

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.
8. Neverfuel machineindoorsbecauseflammablevapors will
accumulatein the area.

20. Neveroperate mowerwithoutpropertrailshield, discharge
cover,grass catcher,bladecontrol handle,or 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
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, clothesdryer,or 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,where
you could loseyour footingor 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.

5

1. Followthe stepsbelowto removethe unitfrom the
carton:
a. Opencarton and removelooseparts includedwith
unit. Do notcrimp cableswhile removingloose
parts or the entireunit fromthe carton.
b. Cut cornersand lay cartondownflat. Remove
packingmaterial.Rollor slideunit outof carton.
Checkcartonthoroughlyfor looseparts.
NOTE:The indentationin your mowing deck is
intentionaland not a defect.
2. Followthe stepsbelowto positionthe handle.
a. Pull up and backon upperhandleas shownin
Figure3-1.Makecertain the lowerhandleis seated
securelyintothe handle mountingbrackets.
Standbehindthe mower
as if you weregoingto
operateit. Your right hand
correspondsto the right
side ofthe mower;your
left hand correspondsto
the leftside of the mower.

DONOT crimpthe cables
when liftingthe handleup.

b. Tightenstar knobssecuringupperhandleto
lowerhandle.Make surethat eachcarriagebolt is
seatedproperlyin the handle.

Handle Mounting Br
Figure3-1:Lifthandleandtightenhardware.

3. Locatethe hairpinclipon the weldpin on eachsideof
lowerhandle.

f

a.

HardwarePack

Wing Nuts(2)

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

CarriageBolts(2)

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.

i The indentationin your
mowing deck is intentional and not a defect. It
allows the manufacturer
differentconfigurations
than the one you currently
have.

.

The ropeguide is attachedto the right sideof the
upperhandle.Loosenthe wingnut which securesthe
rope guide,Figure3-3.
a. Holdthe blade controlagainstupperhandle.
b. Pull starterropeout of the engine.Releasethe
bladecontrol.
c. Slip starterrope into ropeguide.

Figure3-2:Securehandletohandlemountingbrackets.

d. Tightenwingnut.
.

Securecables to the lowerhandlewith the cableties
alreadyon the lowerhandle Figure3-4. Insertpeg on
cabletie into the holeon the lowerhandle.Pull cable
ties tight and cut off excess.

f

iMPORTANT
i This unit is shipped
I withoutgasolineor oil in
i the engine.Fill up gasoline
i and oil as instructedin
i the accompanying engine
i manual BEFOREoperating
i yourmower.

Figure3-3:Pullrecoilstarterthroughropeguideandtighten.

Figure3-4:Usecabletiestosecurecablestolowerhandle.

6

.

Followthe stepsbelow,if needed,to assemblethe
grass catcher,Figure3-5.

7. Followstepsbelowto installthe grass catcher,
Figure3-6.

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

a. Lift reardischargedoor.
b. Placegrasscatcheron the pivot rod. Letgo
of dischargedoor so that it restson the grass
catcher.

b. Slip plasticchanneloverhookson the frame.
All the plasticchannelsexceptcentertop of bag
attachfrom outsideof bag.
,_

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

c. Attachcentertop of bag from insideof bag.

CUTTINGHEIGHT

rough
oruneven
!awns,move the height
adjustment lever to a
higher Position. This will
helppreventscalping of
the grass.

Figure3-5:Assemblethe grasscatcher(if needed).
ii i _iI_ ii

Figure3-6:Liftdischarge
doorandplacegrasscatcheron rod.

Adjustments
Cutting

Height

"

An adjustingplateand leverat eachwheelprovides
cutting heightadjustment.
1. Depresslevertowardswheel.
2. Moveitto anyone of the positionsfordesiredcutting
height, Figure3-7.Makesurethat eachwheelis
positionedat the sameheight.
3. Releaselevertowardsmowerdeck.
Never operatemower
unless the hookson the
grass catcher are firmly
seated on pivotrod and

For roughor uneven lawns, move the height
adjustment lever to a higher position.This will help
preventscalping of the grass.

thereard scharge
door
rests firmly against top of
the grass catcher.
\
Figure3-7:Usethe leverat eachwheelto adjustthe cutting
height.

7

Know Your Lawn Mower
(f

-q_=====
Blade Control

DriveControl====-_

Recoil Starter

Height AdjustmentLevers
(for eachwheel)

WARNING
The bladecontrolis a
safetydevice.Never
attemptto bypassits
operations.

J
Figure4-1:Themaincomponents
onthemower.

i Use extremecarewhen
i handling gasoline.
Gasolineis extremely
flammable andthe vapors
are explosive.Neverfuel
the machine indoorsor

Now that you have setup your lawn mower, it's important to become acquainted with its controls and
features.

Blade Control

Recoil

whilethe engineis hot
or running.Extinguish
i cigarettes,cigars, pipes
; and othersourcesof

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

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

ignition.

Gas and Oil Fill-Up

Drive Control
Keep hands and feet
awayfrom the cutting
deck. Referto warning
label on the unit.

Refer to engine manualfor location of gas and oil fill.

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.

1. Checkoil leveland add oil if necessary.Followengine
manualfor this.
2. Servicethe enginewith gasolineas instructedin the
enginemanual.
,_1

,_

WARNING:Use extremecarewhen handling
gasoline.Gasoline is extremelyflammable
and the vapors are explosive. Never fuel the machine
indoorsor while the engineis hot or running.Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipesand other sources of
ignition.

WARNING:Thisblade
is
a safetydevice. Never controlmechanism
attempt to bypass its
operations.

Cutting

Height

Starter

Adjustment

Levers

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

8

w

_

ARNING:The operationof any lawn mower
can result in foreign objectsbeingthrown
intothe eyes,whichcan damageyoureyes severely.
Alwayswear safetyglasseswhileoperatingthe
mower,or while performingany adjustmentsor
repairson it.

Starting the Mower
Starting

the Engine

_lh

ARNING:Be sure no one otherthan the
operatoris standingnearthe lawn mower
whilestartingengineor operatingmower.Never
run engineindoorsor in enclosed,poorly ventilated
areas. Engine exhaustcontainscarbon monoxide, an
odorlessand deadly gas. Keep hands, feet, hair,and
looseclothing awayfrom any movingpartson engine
Figure4-2:Stepsinvolvedinstartingthemower.
and lawn mower.
Referto the enginemanualfor help with enginecontrols.

,_IL

WARNING:if you strikea foreign object,
stop the engine.Removewire from the
spark plug,thoroughly inspectmower for any
damage, and repairdamage before restarting and
2. Movethechoke leverall the way backwardintothe
operating. Extensive vibration of mower during
choke position.
operation is an indicationof damage. The unit
3. Standingbehindthe mower,squeezethe bladecontrol should be promptlyinspectedand repaired.
againstupper handle,Figure4-2.The chokewill now
begin to slowlyreturnto the off chokepositionafter
1. Oncethe engineis running,squeezethedrive
activatingthe bladecontrol.Therefore,quicklymove
controlagainstthe upperhandleto propelmower.
onto stepfour below.
Forbest results,do notcut wet grassand never
4. Holdingthesetwo handlestogetherfirmly,grasp recoil
cut off morethanone-thirdof the total lengthof the
starterhandleand pull ropeout with a rapid,continugrass.
ous, full arm stroke,Figure4-2. Keepinga firm grip on
Using as iVlulcher
the starterhandlelet the rope rewindslowly.Repeat
Formulchinggrass,removethe grasscatcherfrom the
until enginecranks.Letthe rope rewindeachtime
mower.The rear dischargedoor shouldclose.
slowly.
1. Placethe fuel valveleverfoundon the left sideof the
engine intothe ON (OPEN)position,Figure4-2.

Stopping

the Engine

1. Releasebladecontrol to stop theengineand blade.
2. Disconnectsparkplug wirefrom spark plug and
groundagainstthe engine.
WARNING:Wait for the blade to stop completely before performingany maintenance
on the moweror to removethe grass catcher.

Be sure no one otherthan
the operator is standing
near the lawn mower
while starting engine or
operating mower.Never
run engine indoorsor
in enclosed, poorly
entilated areas. Engine
xhaust containscarbon
monoxide, an odorless

Grass Catcher

Youcan usethe grass catcherto collectclippingswhile
youare operatingthe mower.
.

_

ARNING:Neveroperate
withouteitherthe
rear dooryourmower
or the entire
grass catcherassembly firmly secured.

Attachgrasscatcherfollowinginstructionsin Setup
section.Grassclippingswillautomaticallycollectin
bag as 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.

9

in foreign objectsbeing
thrown intothe eyes,
whichcandamage your
eyes severely. Always
wear safety glasses while
operating the mower,
or whileperformingany
adjustments or repairs
on it.

• Newor thick grassmay requirea narrowercut.
Adjustgroundspeedaccordingto conditionof lawn.

Using

Using Your Lawn Mower

The operation of any
lawn mower canresult

• Foreffectivemulching,do notcut wet grass.

• If thegrass has beenallowedto growin excessof
fourinches,mulchingis not recommended.

,_

WARNING

and deadly gas. Keep
hands, feet, hair and
loose clothingawayfrom
any moving parts on
engine and lawn mower.

Lubrication
1. Lubricatepivot pointson theblade and drivecontrol
handlesat least oncea seasonwith light oil, Figure
5-1.
2. Lubricatethe wheelsat least oncea seasonwith
lightoil (or motoroil). If wheelsare removedfor any
reason,lubricate
surfaceof the pivotarm and inner
surfaceof thewheelwith light oil.

Maintaining

3. Lubricatethe torsionspringand pivot pointon the rear
dischargedoor periodicallywith lightoil to prevent
rust.

Mower

4. Thetransmissionis pre-lubricatedand sealedat the
factoryand does not requirelubrication.
5. Followtheaccompanyingengine manualfor lubrication scheduleand instructionfor engine lubrication.

Deck Care
Figure5-1:Areasto Lubricateon mower.

Theundersideof the mowerdeck shouldbe cleaned
after eachuseto preventany build-upof grass clippings,
leaves,dirt, or otherdebris. If this debrisis allowedto
accumulateit will resultin rust and corrosion.
1. Disconnectsparkplug wire. Draingasolinefrom lawn
moweror placea pieceof plasticunderthegas cap.
2. Tip mowersothat it restson the housing.Keepthe
sidewith the air cleanerfacingup. Hold mowerfirmly.
_

ARNING:Never tip the mower more than
90° in any directions and do not leavethe
mower tipped for any length of time. Oil can drain
intothe upper part of the engine causing a starting
problem.
3. Scrapeand clean the undersideof the deck with a
suitabletool. Do notspraywith water.

Do not use a pressure
washeror garden hose

toc ea"
youruo These
t.
may causedamage to
electriccomponents,
spindles, pulleys,bear,
ingslor the engine,The
useof waterwill resultin

Figure5-2:Cut rodto removerearflap.

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

General

Engine

Recommendations

•

Alwaysobservesafetyruleswhen performing
anymaintenance.

•

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

Care

Followtheaccompanyingengine manualfor detailedlist
and instructions.
• Maintainoil levelas instructedin enginemanual.

•

Changingof engine-governedspeedwill void
enginewarranty.

•

All adjustmentsshouldbe checkedat leastonce
eachseason.

•

Periodicallycheckall fastenersand makesurethese
are tight.

•

Serviceair cleanerevery25 hoursundernormal
conditions.Cleaneveryfew hoursunderextremely
dustyconditions.Referto engine manual.

•

Cleansparkplug and resetthegap once a season.
Checkenginemanualfor correctplugtype and gap
specifications.

•

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

Replacing
,_

WARNING:Alwaysstop engine,disconnect
spark plug,and ground against engine
before performingany type of maintenance on your
machine.

Rear Flap

1. Toremoverearflap, cut off the flat end of the wire rod
whichsecuresit to the deck,Figure5-2.
2. Attachthe newflapand newrod to deck, bendingthe
endsof the new rod overto secureto deck.

10

Blade Care
_

ARNING:Whenremovingcuttingblade,
protectyourhandswith a pairof heavygloves
or use a heavy rag to hold blade.
1. Disconnectsparkplug wirefrom spark plug.Turn
moweron its side makingsurethat the air filter and
the carburetorare up.
2. Removebolt, blade bell support,blade,and blade
adapterfrom the enginecrankshaft,Figure5-3.When
removingthese items,the spacer,pulleys,and
washers will comeloose. Be sure to make note of
the orientation of these itemsfor reassembly.
3. The bladecan be sharpenedwith a fileor on a
grindingwheel. Followthe originalangleof grind.
Donot attemptto sharpenthe bladewhile it is still
on the mower.Balancethe bladeon a roundshaft
screwdriver.Grindcuttingedgesequally.Remove
metal fromthe heavy sideuntil it balancesevenly.

Figure5-3:Remove
bladeandhardware.

f
_

ARNING:An unbalanced blade will cause
excessivevibrationwhen rotating at high
speeds.It may causedamageto mowerand could
break causingpersonalinjury.

WARNING

4. Lubricatetheenginecrankshaftand the innersurface
of the blade adapterwith lightoil. Reinsertthe spacer,
pulleys,and washers.Slidethe bladeadapteronto
the enginecrankshaft.Placethe bladeon the adapter
such that the sideof the blademarked"Bottom"(or
with part number)facesthe groundwhenthe mower
is in the operatingposition.Make surethat bladeis
alignedand seatedon bladeadapterflanges.

When removingthe cutting blade for sharpening
or replacementor when
slidingthe belt around it,
protectyour handswith
a pair of heavy gloves or
use a heavyrag to hold
the blade,

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

An unbalanced blade
will causeexcessive

Toensuresafe operationof yourmower,periodically
checkthe blade boltfor correcttorque.

Figure5-4:Remove
covertoaccessthetransmission
andbelt.

Belt Care
1. Removetwo shoulderscrewssecuringfrontdrive
cover to mowerdeck,Figure5-4. Pressinwardon
sides of front drivecoverand releasetabs that secure
it to the heightadjusterbrackets.Removedrivecover.
2. Loosenscrewholdingbelttensionspringto transmission, Figure5-4. Do notremovescrewcompletely.As
you loosenit, tensionon the beltwill be released.
3. Pushtransmissionup a little and slidebelt off the
transmissionpulley.Lift mowerto access beltfrom
undersideof mower.Slide beltoff of enginepulleyand
aroundthe blade,Figure5-5.
4. Replacewith newbelt, workingaroundblade.Make
sure belt isfirmly seatedon enginepulleywhilepulling
from the othersideand slidingit aroundthetransmission pulley.Tightenscrewloosenedearlierto secure
belt tensionspringto the transmission.Reassemble
Figure5-5:Removebelt from aroundblade.
front drivecover.

11

vibrationwhen rotating
at high speeds,it may
causedamageto mower
and could break causing
personalinjury.

Problem

Cause

Engine fails to start I

ii

3.
4.
5.
6.

Engine overheats
I
I
I

Occasional skips
(hesitates) at
high speed

!iiiiiLi i Iiiiii

1. Engineoil levellow.

1. Fillcrankcasewith proper oil

2. Air flow restricted.

2. Removeblowerhousing
and clean.
3. Referto engne manua.

3. Carburetornot adjustedpropery.
I

1. Sparkplug gap too close.

1. Adjust gapto .030".

2. Carburetoridlemixtureadjustment

2. Referto engine manual.

I

1 Sparkplug fouled, faulty or gap
too wide.

I

2. Carburetorimproperlyadjusted.
3. Drtyarceaner,

Excessive
Vibration

Mower will not
mu ch _rass ' f
E u y _d,t
q PP )

i

ii

i

i i

I
i
I
I

Unevencut

2
.

Referto engine manual.

3. Refertoengnemanua.
1. Tighten bladeandadapter.Balance

2. Bentcutting blade.

2. See an authorizedservicedealer.

1. Wetgrass.

,
2. Excessivelyhigh grass.

I
I

3. Sharpenor replaceblade.

1. Wheelsnot positionedcorrectly.

1. Placeall four wheelsin same
heightposition.
2. Sharpenor replaceblade.

I

1. Belt not installedproperly.

'
I

2. Debrs clogg ng driveoperation.

I

1. Check belt for proper puley installation
and movement.
2, Stop engine,disconnectsparkplug

I
.

1. Donot mowwhen grass is wet; wait
until laterto cut,
2. Mowonce atahigh cutting height
then mowagainat desiredheight or
makea narrowercutting path,

3. Dub ado.

2. Dull blade.

Mower will not
seIf propeI

1. Resetgapto .030"or replace
spark plug.

blade.

I
i

I

1. Cuttingbladeloose or unbalanced.

I

i_i

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

improperly
set.

Idles noorlv
i

Engage bladecontro!.
21 c0nnect wireto sPa[k piugl

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

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

I

r

i

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

Engineruns erratic

For repairs beyond
the minor adjustments
listed here, contact
an authorized service

Biadecontroldisengaged.
spark plug Wiredisconnected:

Remedy

wire and clean out debris.
3. Damagedorworn belt.

12

.

3. Inspectand replacebelt.

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.

_i

_i

i

_iii

i__ i iii

ii_

Safety Labels Found On Your Lawn Mower

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

13

%

14

1

731-2626

Bail Cover

37 782-7551A

WheelCover

2

747-1161A

Blade Control

38 717-1762

SpurGear 14TRH

3

746-1113

ControlCable37.75-inch

717-1761

SpurGear 14TLH

4

726-0240

CableTie

5

39 710-04531

Screw1/4-20x.39

664-04007A Grass BagAssembly

40 734-04093

FrontWheel8 x 2.125GearZag BIk

6

747-04080

Grass Bag Frame

41 731-0981A

Hubcap

7

732-0700

TrailshieldWire

42 710-0216

Screw3/8-16x .75

8

731-04998

Trailshield

43 720-0426

Knob

9

731-04134A Rear Door

44 736-0447

WaveWasher 1.5x 1 x .029

10 687-02057

HeightAdj. BracketAssy- LH

45 710-1008

ScrewTT 3/8-16x 1.875

687-02056

HeightAdj. BracketAssy- RH

46 712-04065

FlangeLockNut 3/8-16

11 787-01248

21-inchDeck

47 782-5004B

RearRH Baffle

12 732-1043

CompressionSpring

48 710-1652

ScrewTT 1/4-20x .625

13 687-02193

Front HeightAdj.Assy- LH

49 720-0312

FoamGrip

Front HeightAdj.Assy- RH

50 738-0507B

ShoulderScrew

14 750-04595

SleeveSpacer.52 ID x 1.5long

51 734-04093

RearWheel 12x 2.125IdleZag Gry

15 715-0221

DowelPin

52 732-0866

SpringLever

16 618-04376

Transmission

53 687-02039A PivotArmAssemblyRH

17 710-1650

ShoulderScrew

687-02194

687-02040A PivotArmAssemblyLH

parts; call
1,800,800,7310
or visit us on
the web at

18 731-05013A DeckCover

54 L710-0599

ScrewTT 1/4-20x .5

19 782-5002B

55 714-0104

HairpinClip

56 687-02192

HandleBracketAssemblyRH

iMPORTANT

687-02191

HandleBracketAssemblyLH

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

Front Baffle

20 750-04438A SleeveSpacer
21 754-04101

V-TypeBelt

22 736-04173

SpringWasher1.005x 1.825x .048

57 710-0703

Screw1/4-20x .75

23 748-04082

Blade Adapterwith Star

58 631-0075B

EngineSpacer

24 742-0741

21-inchMulchingBlade

59 732-04090A TorsionSpringRH

25 736-0524B

Bell BladeSpacer

26 710-1257

Screw3/8-24 x 2.5

60 750-04162

Spacer

27 736-0250

Fiat Washer1 x 1.75x .107

61 747-0996

PivotRod

28 756-04160

KeyHalf Pulley

62 782-5003A

RearBaffle LH

29 756-04161

UpperHalf Pulley

63 710-1017

ScrewAB 1/4-14x .625

30 750-04594

SleeveSpacer

64 712-0397

WingNut

31 682-0015

Front BearingAssembly

65 749-0928A

LowerHandle

32 787-01298

AdjustmentPlateRH

66 710-1174

CarriageBolt5/16-18x 2

787-01299

AdjustmentPlateLH

67 720-04072

StarKnob

33 687-02044

Pivot PlateAssembly

68 720-0279

HandleKnob

34 732-0706

Spring LeverRH

69 710-1205

EyeBolt

732-0707

Spring LeverLH

70 749-1092A

UpperHandle

35 736-0474

Fiat Washer1.01x 1.5x .035

71 747-1214

DriveControl

36 716-0102

Snap Ring

72 746-04203

ControlCable51-inch

732-04089A TorsionSpringLH

15

www,mtdproducts:com

MANUFACTURER'S

LiMiTED WARRANTY

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

FOR

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

d. Servicecompletedby someoneotherthanan authorizedservice
dealer.

MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND,

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



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