MTD 12AI832Q724 User Manual LAWN MOWER Manuals And Guides 1109296L

User Manual: MTD 12AI832Q724 12AI832Q724 MTD LAWN MOWER - Manuals and Guides View the owners manual for your MTD LAWN MOWER #12AI832Q724. Home:Lawn & Garden Parts:MTD Parts:MTD LAWN MOWER Manual

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Safe Operation

Practices • Set-Up • Operation

• Maintenance

• Service • Troubleshooting

• Warranty

Self-Propelled

Mower m Model Series 830

MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHiO 44136-0019

PrintedIn USA

FormNo.769-04545
(December15,2008)

ToTheOwner
ThankYou
Thank you for purchasing

a Lawn Mower

manufactured

If you have any problems

MTD LLC. It was carefully engineered to provide excellent
performance
when properly operated and maintained.
Please read this entire manual
It instructs

prior to operating

your machine.

persons

who will operate

address and mailing

the equipment.

you how to safely and easily set up, operate

maintain

carefully

and

concerning

address can be found

to ensure your complete

Please be sure that you, and any other
the machine,

or questions

Throughout

the

machine

satisfaction

this manual,
are observed

on this page. We want

at all times.

all references

to right and left side of the

from the operating

position

recommended
safety practices at all times. Failure to do so could
result in personal injury or property damage.

The engine

All information

is relative to the most recent

warranty

at the time of printing.

Owner's/Operator's
Manual, packed separately
machine, for more information.

product

in this manual

information

available

the machine,

phone your local authorized MTD service dealer or contact us
directly. MTD's Customer Support telephone
numbers, website

manufacturer

is responsible

issues with regards to performance,

Review

this manual frequently to familiarize yourself with the machine,
its features and operation.
Please be aware that this Operator's

for all engine-related

power-rating,

and service. Please refer to the engine

specifications,
manufacturer's
with your

Manual may cover a range of product specifications
for various
models. Characteristics
and features discussed and/or illustrated
in this manual

may not be applicable

to all models.

MTD LLC

reserves the right to change product specifications,
designs and
equipment
without notice and without
incurring obligation.

Table of Contents
Safe Operation

Practices ........................................

Service .....................................................................

Assembly & Set-Up ..................................................
Controls & Features ................................................

9
12

Troubleshooting
.....................................................
Parts List .................................................................

17
20

Operation

Warranty

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

Maintenance

& Adjustments

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

RecordProductInformation
Before setting

up and operating

information
model

in the provided

plate by standing

MODEL NUMBER

your new equipment,

locate the model plate on the equipment

DIqE]IqE]IqE]IqE]IqD

please

and record the

area to the right. You can locate the

at the operator's

position

and looking

SERIALNUMBER

down at the rear of the deck. This information
will be necessary,
should you seek technical support via our web site, Customer
Support

Department,

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

or with a local authorized

DIqFllqFllqFllqNIqD

service dealer.

CustomerSupport
Please

do NOT return

If you have difficulty
this machine,

the machine

assembling

to the retailer

this product

you can seek help from

Visit us on the web at www.mtdproducts.com

Call a Customer

Write

Support

Representative

without

or have any questions

the experts.

or dealer

Choose

from

at (800) 800-7:310

us at MTD LLC • RO. Box :3611:31 • Cleveland,

first contacting
regarding

the options

the controls,
below:

or (330) 220-468:3

OH • 441:36-0019

our Customer
operation,

Support

Department.

or maintenance

importantSafeOperationPractices
WARNING:

This symbol

could endanger
all instructions

points out important

the personal

safety and/or

in this manual

with these instructions

before

property

attempting

may result in personal

When you see this symbol.

safety instructions
of yourself

to operate

which,

if not followed,

and others.

this machine.

Read and follow

Failure to comply

injury.

HEED ITS WARNING!

CALIFORNIA

PROPOSITION

WARNING: Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents,
and certain vehicle components
contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects
or other reproductive

WARNING:

Battery

compounds,

harm.
posts, terminals,

chemicals

known

and related

to the State of California

this manual.
operator

was built to be operated

As with any type of power

result in serious injury

equipment,

objects.

operation.

Keep this manual
reference

This machine

Therefore,

personal

and the proper

use

exercise extreme

has been designed

caution

to perform

8.
at all

fingers,

hands,
could

inspect the area where the equipment

is to be

which

one job:

Plan your mowing

by an adult.

should

who are familiar
be allowed

material

to use this

or a thrown

zone behind

to ricochet

object

back

injury,

handles and keep children,

and pets at least 75 feet from
Stop machine

if anyone

mower

enters area.

Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during
operation and while performing
an adjustment
or repair
your eyes. Thrown

objects

which

ricochet

can

to the eyes.

Wear sturdy, rough-soled
work shoes and close-fitting
slacks and shirts. Shirts and pants that cover the arms
and legs and steel-toed
operate
weight

11.

against a wall or obstruction,

To help avoid blade contact
helpers

of material

and the like. Also,

material

cause serious injury

with these

can cause serious

to avoid discharge
bystanders

which may cause discharged
toward the operator.

to protect

10.
individuals

pattern

roads, sidewalks,

while it is in operation.
9.

over or picked up

objects

injury.

bystanders,

purpose.

could be tripped

by the blade. Thrown

stay in operator

the instructions
and safe operation practices in this manual
and on the machine and should be trained and supervised

rules of safe operation
machine.

of amputating

safety instructions

objects,

and thrown

toward

Never allow children under 14 years of age to operate this
machine. Children 14 and over should read and understand

Only responsible

Thoroughly
foreign

piece of power equipment,

to mow grass. Do not use it for any other

or error on the part of the

the following

avoid discharging

Be completely
familiar with the controls
of this machine before operating
it.
is a precision

in a safe

and for ordering

times. This machine

used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys and other

place for future and regular
replacement
parts

not a plaything.

is capable

practices

or death.

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
before

to the safe operation

carelessness

Failure to observe

GeneralOperation

lead and lead

to cause cancer and reproductive

according

can result in serious injury. This machine

toes and feet and throwing

manuals)

contain

harm. Wash hands after handling.

DANGER: This machine

accessories

this machine

shoes are recommended.

or light-

(e.g. canvas) shoes.

Do not put hands or feet near rotating
cutting

Never

in bare feet, sandals, slippery

deck. Contact

hands, toes and feet.

parts or under the

with blade can amputate

fingers,

12. Amissing
ordamaged
discharge
cover
cancause
blade
contact
orthrown
object
injuries.
13. Many
injuries
occur
asaresult
ofthemower
beingpulled
overthefootduring
afallcaused
byslipping
ortripping.
Donotholdontothemower
ifyouarefalling;
release
the
handle
immediately.
14. Never
pullthemower
back
toward
youwhileyouare
walking.
Ifyoumustback
themower
away
fromawallor
obstruction
firstlookdownandbehind
toavoid
tripping
andthenfollowthese
steps:
a. Stepback
frommower
tofullyextend
yourarms.
b. Besureyouarewellbalanced
withsure
footing.
c. Pullthemower
backslowly,
nomore
thanhalfway
toward
you.
d. Repeat
these
steps
asneeded.
15.

Do not operate
alcohol

16.

while

under the influence

while

The blade control

starting
handle

to bypass its operation.
inoperative

mechanism

(kickback)

28.

injury

through

If you feel you are losing your footing,

blade control handle immediately
rotating within three seconds.
Mow only in daylight
run.

20.

Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walks or roads.

21.

If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop
the engine and check immediately for the cause. Vibration
is generally a warning of trouble.

23.

Never operate mower without proper trail shield, discharge
cover, grass catcher, blade control handle or other safety
protective devices in place and working. Never operate
mower with damaged safety devices. Failure to do so can
result in personal injury.

24.

Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do
not touch.

25.

Never attempt
adjustment

26.

to make a wheel or cutting

while

height

the engine is running.

the manufacturer.

made for this machine

Failure to do so can result in personal

injury.

Mow across
extreme
Watch

the face of slopes;

caution

SECTION 2 --

IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION

PRACTICES

when

for holes,

which can cause
obstacles.

never

changing

ruts, rocks,

on a sloped or

serious personal

up and down.

direction

hidden

Exercise

on slopes.

objects,

or bumps

you to slip or trip. Tall grass can hide

Always be sure of your footing.

A slip and fall can cause

injury. If you feel you are losing your
handle immediately
three (3) seconds.

and

Do Not:

Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments, you
could lose your footing or balance.

Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as shown on
the slope gauge.

Do not mow on wet grass. Unstable footing could cause
slipping.

Children
Tragic accidents
presence

can occur if the operator

of children.

and the mowing

They do not understand

Never assume that children
1.

Keep children

is not alert to the

Children are often attracted

activity.

to the mower
the dangers.

will remain where you last saw them.

out of the mowing

care of a responsible

area and under watchful

adult other than the operator.

Be alert and turn mower

Before and while moving
down for small children.

Use extreme care when approaching
blind corners,
doorways, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure
your vision of a child who may run into the mower.

Keep children away from hot or running
suffer burns from a hot muffler.

Never allow children under 14 years of age to operate this
machine. Children 14 and over should read and understand
the instructions

Only use parts and accessories

this machine

Do:

light. Walk, never

Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes to
a complete stop before removing the grass catcher or
unclogging the chute. The cutting blade continues to
rotate for a few seconds after the blade control is released.
Never place any part of the body in the blade area until you
are sure the blade has stopped rotating.

which

on slopes requires extra

balance, release the blade control
the blade will stop rotating within

release the

in this manual,

hilly area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees, do not mow it.

19.

22.

are not covered

measure slopes before operating

and the blade will stop

or good artificial

occur which

faster than

bruises or sprains

caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it. For your
safety, use the slope gauge included as part of this manual to

handle

Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always be sure of
your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious personal
injury.

If situations

can result in severe injury. Operation

must operate easily in both directions and automatically
return to the disengaged
position when released.
18.

of starter cord

Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents,

is a safety device. Never attempt

blade. The blade control

Rapid retraction

will pull hand and arm toward engine

Slope Operation

and may result in personal

pull cord slowly until resistance

use care and good judgement.
Contact Customer Support
for assistance or the name of the nearest service dealer.

Doing so makes the safety device

with the rotating

engine,

you can let go. Broken bones, fractures,
could result.

on machines

engine.

When starting

is felt, then pull rapidly.

Do not engage the self-propelled

contact

or drugs.

so equipped
17.

the mower

27.

off if a child enters the area.
backwards,

and safe operation

and on the machine
adult.

and be trained

look behind and

engines.

practices

They can

in this manual

and supervised

by an

Service

Check the blade and engine
intervals

To avoid personal
care in handling

injury

or property

damage

gasoline. Gasoline

is extremely

can ignite. Wash your skin and change

flammable

clothes

original

Use only an approved
Never fill containers

gasoline

container.

inside a vehicle

Remove gas-powered

equipment

Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight
equipment

trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible,
then refuel such equipment
on a trailer with a portable
container,
5.

rather than from a gasoline

Keep the nozzle in contact
container

opening

at all times

not use a nozzle lock-open
6.

Extinguish
of ignition.

all cigarettes,

dispenser

until fueling

below

of filler neck to provide

bottom

no more than I inch

heater, furnace,

or fuel container

clothes dryer or other

To reduce fire hazard, keep machine
or other debris build-up.

near an open

discharge

cover, and trail shield
could expose

to be thrown.

check components

For safety
and replace

do not meet the original

equipment

performance

specifications

and compromise

gas appliances.

11.

Clean up oil or fuel spillage

to cool at least 5 minutes

before

and

storing.

Engine exhaust

contains

carbon

monoxide,

area.

an odorless

Check fuel line, tank, cap, and fittings

repairing,

blade and all moving

spark plug wire and ground
starting.

or inspecting,

parts have stopped.

make certain the
Disconnect

or over-speed
safe

frequently

12.

Do not crank engine with spark plug removed.

13.

Maintain

or replace

safety and instruction

for cracks

labels, as

14.

Observe proper disposal laws and regulations. Improper
disposal of fluids and materials can harm the environment.

15.

According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission
(CPSC) and the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA),
this product

has an Average Useful Life of seven (7) years,
At the end of the Average Useful

inspected

annually

the

against the engine to prevent

by an authorized

service dealer to ensure that all mechanical and safety
systems are working properly and not worn excessively.
Failure to do so can result in accidents,

gas.

Before cleaning,

unintended

or in a poorly ventilated

setting

the maximum

speed of the engine.

Life have the machine
indoors

governor
controls

or 140 hours of operation.

Never run an engine
and deadly

the engine's

The governor

or leaks. Replace if necessary.

free of grass, leaves,

any fuel soaked debris.
machine

Do not change

necessary.

GeneralService:

frequently

the engine.

securely.

engine.

Never store the machine

10.

flame, spark or pilot light as on a water heater, space

components,

parts or allow objects

operating

If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and equipment.
Move machine to another area. Wait 5 minutes before

Allow

height

the engine is running.

may lead to improper

for fuel expansion.

1I.

14.

Repair the

the mower.

safety!"
fuel tank. Filltankto

remove

for any damage.

and operating

to make a wheel or cutting

while

Grass catcher

which

before

Replace gasoline cap and tighten

13.

Never attempt

starting

immediately
with original equipment
manufacturer's
(O.E.M.) parts only, listed in this manual. "Use of parts

is hot or

I0.

12.

inspect the mower

before

protection,

vapors will

Allow engine to cool at least two minutes

Never overfill

starting

After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, disconnect
the spark plug wire and ground against the engine.

moving

Never remove gas cap or add fuel while engine

with safety devices. Check their proper

are subject to wear and damage which

cigars, pipes and other sources

because flammable

to be sure the

condition.

regularly.

adjustment
9.

device.

Never fuel machine indoors
accumulate in the area.

running.
refueling.

Never tamper

damage

nozzle.

is complete.

is in safe working

Thoroughly

with the rim of the fuel tank or

may lead to improper

safety!"

operation

from the truck or

specifications

and compromise

Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade or
wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.

on the

blade

or on a truck or trailer

bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers
ground away from your vehicle before filling.

equipment

performance

immediately.
2.

inspect

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

use extreme

and the vapors are explosive. Serious personal injury can
occur when gasoline is spilled on yourself or your clothes,
which

bolts at frequent

Also, visually

for damage (e.g., bent, cracked, worn)

SafeHandling Of Gas01ine:
I.

mounting

for proper tightness.

injuries

or death.

Donot modify engine
To avoid serious injury

or death, do not modify

engine

in any

way. Tampering with the governor setting can lead to a runaway
engine and cause it to operate at unsafe speeds. Never tamper
with factory

setting

SECTION

of engine

2 --

governor.

IMPORTANT

SAFE

OPERATION

PRACTICES

SparkArrestor

Notice Regarding Emissions
Engines which are certified to comply with California and federal
EPA emission regulations for SORE (Small Off Road Equipment)
are certified

to operate

may include

the following

Modification

(EM), Oxidizing

Injection

on regular
emission

unleaded
control

gasoline,

and

internal combustion
engine and should not be used
WARNING:
This machine is equipped with an
on or near any unimproved
forest-covered,
brush

i_ll

systems: Engine

Catalyst (OC), Secondary

Air

(SAI) and Three Way Catalyst (TWC) if so equipped.

covered

or grass-covered

exhaust

system is equipped

meeting

applicable

order by the operator.

above is required

with a spark arrester

local or state laws (if any).

Ira spark arrester is used, it should
working

land unless the engine's

be maintained

in effective

In the State of California

by law (Section

4442 of the California

the
Public

Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws
apply on federal

lands.

A spark attester for the muffler is available through your
nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the service
department,

SECTION 2 --

IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION

PRACTICES

RO. Box 361131 Cleveland,

Ohio 44136-0019.

Safety Symbols
This page depicts and describes safety symbols that may appear
machine before attempting
to assemble and operate.

on this product.

Read, understand,

and follow

all instructions

on the

READ THE OPERATOR'S MANUAL(S)
Read, understand,
assemble

and follow

all instructions

in the manual(s) before

attempting

and operate

DANGER -- ROTATING BLADES
To reduce the risk of injury, keep hands and feet away. Do not operate
or grass catcher is in its proper place. If damaged,

unless discharge

cover

replace immediately.

i|1_

Do not mow

when

children

or others

are around.

IRFS
_1_

DANGER--

HAND/FOOT

CUT

Keep hands and feet away from rotating

parts.

DANGER -- THROWN DEBRIS
Remove objects

that can be thrown

by the blade in any direction.

Wear safety glasses.

DANGER -- SLOPES
Use extra caution

on slopes. Do not mow slopes greater than 15°.

Allow
the engine to cool atFLAMMABLE
least two minutes
WARNING--GASOLINEIS

WARNING--

CARBON MONOXIDE

Never run an engine indoors
monoxide,

or in a poorly ventilated

follow
Ii_

and muffler

the warnings

WARNING:

and instructions

area. Engine exhaust contains carbon

an odorless and deadly gas.

WARNING-HOT SURFACE
Engine parts, especially the muffler,
__\_%._

before refueling.

become extremely

hot during

operation.

Allow engine

to cool before touching.

in this manual and on the machine.

Your Responsibility--Restrict

the use
of this INSTRUCTIONS!
power machine to persons
SAVE
THESE

SECTION 2 --

who read, understand

IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION

and

PRACTICES

J
|

Sight and hold this level with a vertical tree...

-4

5
Z

or a corner of a building...

i
i
Z

I
i

I
I

' FOldo,

or a fencepost

',
diine

, --Lepre_n tsa15 o

-4

I
I

15 °

Usethis page as a guide to determine slopes where you may not operate safely.
WARNING:

Do not operate

(a rise of approximately
mowers

up and down

slopes.

your lawn mower

on such slopes. Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees

2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). A riding

mower

could overturn

slopes, never across the face of slopes. Operate

walk-behind

and cause serious injury. Operate
mowers

riding

across the face of slopes, never

AssembJy
& Set-Up
Contents of Carton
One Lawn Mower

One Lawn Mower

One Grass Catcher

One Engine Operator's

Assembly

Operator's

Manual

brackets.

NOTE:This unit is shipped

without

gasoline

or oil in the engine.

Fill up gasoline and oil as instructed in the accompanying
manual BEFORE operating your mower.

engine

One Side Discharge Chute

Manual

Tighten

One Bottle of Oil

star knobs securing

lower handle to handle

See Fig. 3-2. Make certain

the lower

seated securely into the handle mounting

handle is

brackets.

Handle
1.

Remove any packing material
upper and lower handles.
a.

which

Pull up and back on upper

may be between

handle as shown in Fig.

3-1. Make certain the lower handle is seated securely
into the handle mounting brackets.
cable while lifting the handle up.

Do not crimp

%
Figure 3-2
3.

The rope guide is attached
handle.

rope guide.

Figure 3-1
b.

Tighten
handle.
properly

star knobs to secure upper handle to lower
Make sure that each carriage bolt is seated
in the handle.

to the right side of the upper

See Fig. 3-3. Loosen the wing nut which

secures the

c. Attach
center
topofbagfrominside
offrame.
Before
attaching
thegrass
catcher,
themulching
baffle
mustberemoved.
a. Liftreardischarge
door.
b. Remove
mulching
baffle.
SeeFig.3-5.

Figure

:3-3

Hold blade control

against

upper

Pull starter
control.

rope out of the engine.

Slip starter

rope into rope guide.

Tighten

handle.
Release blade

wing nut.

Figure

GrassCatcher

Follow steps below to assemble
certain bag is turned
(warning
a.

right side out before

assembling

Follow the steps below to attach the grass catcher:
a.

the grass catcher. Make

3-5

Lift rear discharge

door. See Fig. 3-6.

label will be on the outside).

Place bag over fra me so that its black plastic side is
at the bottom. See Fig. 3-4.

Figure 3-6
b.

Place grass catcher on the pivot rod. Let go of
discharge door so that it rests on the grass catcher.

Figure 3-4
b.

Slip plastic channel

of grass bag over hooks on the

frame. All the plastic channels except center top of
bag attach from outside of frame.

'°1

SECTION

3 --

ASSEMBLY&

SET-UP

on the grass catcher are firmly seated on the pivot
Never
operate door
mower
hooks
rodARNING:
and the rear
discharge
restsunless
firmly the
against
top of the grass catcher.

Side DischargeChute
To convert

unit and rear discharge
1.

Adjustments

to side discharge,

make sure grass catcher

is off of the

door is closed.

On the side of the mower,
3-7.

lift the mulching

plug. See Fig.

CuttingHeight
The cutting
wheel.

height adjustment

lever is located above the rear left

Depress height adjustment

Slide lever to desired
height.

lever towards

position

for a change

in cutting

See Fig. 3-8.

/
/

Figure 3-7

wheel.

,J
2_

Slide two hooks of side discharge

chute under

hinge pin on

Figure 3-8

mulching plug assembly. Lower the mulching plug. Do not
remove side mulching plug at any time, even when you are
not mulching.

Release lever towards

deck.

Set-Lip
(;as and Oil Fill-Up
Refer to the separate engine owner's

manual

for additional

engine information.
1.

Add oil provided
of the box.

before

Service the engine with gasoline as instructed
separate engine owner's manual.
WARNING:

starting

Use extreme

gasoline. Gasoline
or while

care when

is extremely

vapors are explosive.
indoors

unit for the first time out

handling

flammable

and the

Never fuel the machine

the engine

Extinguish cigarettes,
sources of ignition.

in the

is hot or running.

cigars, pipes and other

SECTION3 -- ASSEMBLY
& SET-UP

Controls
andFeatures
f

Control

DeedControl

Recoil Starter
Cutting Height
Adjustment Lever

Figure 4-1

BladeControl

RecoilStarter

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

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

unit. Release it to stop engine and blade.

SpeedControl
The speed control is located

Never attempt to bypass its operations.
ARNING:
This blade control is a safety device.

on the variable

housing

on the upper

forward

speed of the mower.

speed control

handle, This control is used to select the
See Fig. 4-1 inset.

DriveControl

IMPORTANT: Move the speed control only when the engine is
running, Changing the speed control setting with the engine off

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 stop mower from
propelling, See Fig, 4-1,

can damage

Cutting HeightAdjustmentLever

MulchPlug

The cutting

height adjustment

rear wheel. To adjust the cutting
Set-Up" Section.

lever is located above the left
height, refer to the "Assembly

NOTE:The

speeds noted on the speed control are not exact.

Speed will vary depending
conditions.

The mulch
&

the mower.

collecting

on belt wear, cable wear, and mowing

plug is used for mulching
the grass clippings

purpose.

Instead of

in the grass catcher, your mower

has the option of recirculating
the clippings back to the lawn.
Make sure that the rear discharge door is closed and the grass
catcher

is removed

from unit while

mulching.

Operation
Starting Engine
WARNING: Be sure no one other than the operator
is standing near the lawn mower while starting
engine or operating mower. Never run engine
indoors or in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas.
Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an
odorless and deadly gas. Keep hands, feet, hair and
loose clothing away from any moving parts on
engine and lawn mower.
1.

If equipped, place the fuel valve lever found on the left side
of the engine into the ON (OPEN)position. SeeFig. 5-1.

Move the choke lever (if equipped) all the way backward
into the choke position.

Standing behind the mower, squeeze the blade control
against upper handle. The choke (if equipped) will now
begin to slowly return to the off choke position after
activating the blade control. Therefore, quickly move onto
step four below.

Holding these two handles together firmly, grasp recoil
starter handle and pull rope out with a rapid, continuous,
full arm stroke. See Fig. 5-1. Keeping a firm grip on the
starter handle let the rope rewind slowly. Repeat until
engine cranks. Let the rope rewind each time slowly.

Figure 5-1

engine. Remove wire from the spark plug,
ARNING: inspect
If you strike
thoroughly
mowera foreign
for any object,
damage, stop
andthe
repair damage before restarting and operating.

_bk

Stopping Engine

Extensive vibration
1.

Release blade control

to stop the engine and blade.

before performing
any work on the mower or to
WARNING:
Wait catcher.
for the blade to stop completely
remove the grass

Be sure lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or other objects
could damage

be accidently

lawn mower

thrown

serious personal

by the mower

or engine.

inspected

and repaired.

and cause

UsingGrassCatcher

and others.
operating

result in foreign objects being thrown into the eyes,
WARNING:
The operation
any lawnAlways
mower wear
can
which
can damage
your eyesofseverely.
safety glasses while operating
performing

any adjustments

the mower,

while

Attach

grass catcher

following

instructions

in the

or repairs on it.
2.

till grass bag is full.

Stop engine

completely

by releasing

the blade control.

Make sure that the unit has come to a complete
2.

To change

speed, move speed control

to the desired

until you are comfortable
of the mower.

a drive speed, use the first speed
and familiar

stop.

speed.
3.

NOTE: When selecting

you are

"Assembly & Set-Up" section. Grass clippings will
automatically
collect in bag as you run mower. Operate

or while

Once the engine is running, squeeze the drive control
against the upper handle to propel mower.

clippings

the mower.

mower
1.

is an

be promptly

Usingas Mulcher

You can use the grass catcher to collect

operation

Such objects could

in any direction

injury to the operator

during

of damage. The unit should

For mulching grass, remove the grass catcher, insert rear mulch
plug, and remove side discharge chute from the mower. For
effective mulching, do not cut wet grass. If the grass has been
allowed to grow in excess of four inches, mulching is not
recommended. Use the grass catcher to bag clippings instead.

UsingYour Lawn Mower
which

of mower

indication

with the operation

Lift discharge
the mower
clippings

door and pull grass bag up and away from

to remove the bag. Dispose of the grass
and reinstall the bag when

complete.

Maintenance
& Adjustments
Maintenance

Lubricate

the wheels

and rear wheel gears at least once a

season with light oil (or motor

General Recommendations
Always observe
maintenance.
The warranty

safety rules when

performing

are removed

any
3.

on this lawn mower

does not cover items that

Lubricate

the torsion

discharge

door and side mulch plug periodically

oil to prevent

spring and pivot points

on the rear
with light

rust. See Fig. 6-1.

have been subjected to operator abuse or negligence. To
receive full value from warranty, operator must maintain
the lawn mower as instructed
here.

The transmission
is pre-lubricated
and does not require lubrication.

and sealed at the factory

Changing

Follow the accompanying

manual

of engine-governed

speed will void engine

schedule

wa rra nty.
All adjustments
season.
Periodically

should

be checked at least once each

and make sure these are

engine

for engine

for lubrication

lubrication.

build-up

of the mower

of grass clippings

deck after each use to prevent

or other debris. Follow steps below

for this job.
WARNING:

Always stop engine,

plug, and ground

against engine

any type of maintenance

disconnect
before

spark

Disconnect spark plug wire. Drain gasoline from lawn
mower or place a piece of plastic under the gas cap.

Tip mower

performing

on your machine.

so that it rests on the housing.

with the air cleaner

Lubrication
Lubricate pivot points on the blade and drive controls
at least once a season with light oil. These controls must
operate

and instruction

DeckCare
Clean underside

check all fasteners

tight.

oil). If wheels

for any reason, lubricate surface of the pivot arm and inner
surface of the wheel with light oil. See Fig. 6-1.

freely in both directions.

facing

up. Hold mower

Keep the side
firmly.

any direction

and do not leave the mower tipped for
WARNING:
tip can
the drain
mowerintomore
° in
any length of Never
time. Oil
the than
upper90 part
of the engine causing a starting problem.

See Fig. 6-1.
3.

Scrape and clean the underside

of the deck with a suitable

tool. Do not spray with water.
IMPORTANT:

Do not use a pressure washer or garden

hose

to clean your unit. These may cause damage to bearings,
or the engine. The use of water will result in shortened
life
and reduce serviceability.
4.

Put the mower
put plastic
now.

Figure 6-1

back on its wheels on the ground.

Ifyou

had

under the gas cap earlier, make sure to remove

Engine Care
A list of key engine
performance

maintenance

by the mower

accompanying

for a detailed

oil level as instructed

With engine off, shift back to first speed. This will provide
slack in the cable.

Remove back cover of speed control housing by removing
the three screws securing it to the housing. See Fig. 6-3.

for good

is given below. Follow the

engine manual

Maintain

jobs required

list and instructions.

in engine

Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal
Clean every few hours under extremely

manual.
conditions.

dusty conditions.

Poor engine performance
and flooding usually indicates
that the air cleaner should be serviced. To service the air
cleaner, refer to the engine

manual.

Clean spark plug and reset the gap once a season. Spark
plug replacement
mowing

is recommended

season. Check engine

at the start of each

manual for correct

plug

type and gap specifications.
Clean engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep the
top of the engine clean to permit proper air circulation.
Remove all grass, dirt, and combustible
a rea.

debris from muffler

Repladng RearFlap
1.

To remove

rear flap, lift rear door, remove

flap in on either

side to remove from

screw, and press

hole. See Fig. 6-2.

Figure 6=3

Remove screw and flat washer securing
NOTE:Make
cable is in.

sure to take note of which

cable. See Fig. 6-3.
slot in housing

Using a pair of needle nose pliers or similar tool, move
eyelet in cable only one slot to the left in housing

as shown

in Fig. 6-4.

....
2 ..............

Figure 6=2
2.

Remove screw and flap from opposite
with new flap in the opposite
removal.

hole and replace

order and manner

Adjustments
VariableSpeed(:able
Periodic adjustment

of the variable

speed cable may be

necessary due to normal wear on the drive system. Adjustment
needed if unit begins to run too slow or too fast.
1.

Figure 6=4

Start engine and place shift lever in the third speed
NOTE: Moving eyelet to the left speeds unit up; moving
to the right slows it down.

position.
2.

Stop engine and disconnect
against engine.

spark plug wire and ground

it
7_

Replace screw and washer

removed

earlier and reassemble

back of housing.

SECTION 6 --

MAINTENANCE

& ADJUSTMENTS

Service
Blade Care
WARNING:
sharpening

When removing
or replacement,

the cutting
protect

blade for

your hands with

a pair of heavy gloves or use a heavy rag to hold the
blade.
Periodically

inspect the blade adapter

strike a foreign object. Replace when
below for blade service.
1.

for cracks, especially
necessary.

if you

the engine

which

hold the

to the engine crankshaft.

(or with part number)

faces the ground

is in the operating

position.

when

Remove blade and adapter
7-1.

from the crankshaft.

See Fig.

the mower

Make sure that the blade is aligned

and seated on

flanges.

Place blade bell support
blade bell support

See

Fig. 7-1.

and the inner surface

light oil. Slide the blade

side of the blade marked "Bottom"

the blade adapter

Remove the bolt and the blade bell support

crankshaft
with

adapter (and wave washer, if applicable) onto the engine
crankshaft. Place the blade on the adapter such that the

Follow the steps

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

blade and the blade adapter

Lubricate

of the blade adapter

are facing up.
2.

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

on the blade. Align notches

on the

with small holes in blade.

Replace hex bolt and tighten
rain., 600 in. Ibs. max.

hex bolt to torque:

To ensure safe operation
of your mower,
blade bolt for correct torque.

periodically

450 in. Ibs.

check the

Belt Care
NOTE: Several components
the mower's

must be removed

belt. See an authorized

in order to change

Service Dealer to have your

belt replaced.

0ff-SeasonStorage
The following

steps should be taken to prepare your lawn mower

for storage.
Clean and lubricate mower
lubrication
instructions.

thoroughly

Do not use a pressure washer or garden
unit.
Coat mower's
Blade Bell
Support

_._ ......
........

Bolt

Refer to engine
instructions.

Store mower

Figure 7-1
When removing

washer when

reassembling

corrosive

these items, a wave washer

may also come off with the adapter.

Be sure to include this

the blade adapter.

Failure to do

so will result in the unit not being able to change
4.

speeds.

Remove blade from the adapter for testing balance.
Balance the blade on a round shaft screwdriver to check.
Remove metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly.
When sharpening

the blade, follow

grind. Grind each cutting
balanced.

in the

hose to clean your

blade with chassis grease to prevent

rusting.

IMPORTANT:

cutting

as described

the original

edge equally

angle of

to keep the blade

manual

for correct engine storage

in a dry, clean area. Do not store next to

materials,

such as fertilizer.

When storing any type of power equipment
in a poorly
ventilated or metal storage shed, care should be taken to
rust-proof
equipment,
mower

the equipment.
especially

before storage.

Using a light oil or silicone,

cables and all moving

coat the

parts of your lawn

Troubleshooting
Problem
Engine Fails to start

Cause
1.

Remedy

Blade control disengaged.

2. Spark plug boot disconnected.

2. Connect wire to spark boot.

3. Fuel tank empty or stale fuel.

3. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.

4. Engine not primed (if equipped

with primer).

4. Prime engine as instructed
section.

in the Operation

5. Faulty spark plug.

5. Clean, adjust gap, or replace.

6. Blocked fuel line.

6. Clean fuel line.

Engine flooded.

Z Waita few mmutes to restart, butdo not
prime.

Fuel valve (if equipped)

9. Engine not choked

Engine runs erratic

1. Engage blade control.

closed.

(if equipped

8. Open fuel valve. See engine manual.
with choke).

9. Choke engine. See engine

manual.

10. Burnt fuse. (Electric Start only)

10. Replace fuse (see Service Section).

1. Spark plug boot loose.

1. Connectand

2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.

2. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh

tighten

spark plug boot.

gasoline.
3. Vent in gas cap plugged.

3. Clear vent.

4. Water or dirt in fuel system.

4. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.

5. Dirty air cleaner.

5. Refertoengine

6. Unit running

6. Push CHOKE knob in.

with CHOKE (if equipped)

manual.

applied.
Engine overheats

Occasional skips
(hesitates) at

1. Engine oil level low.

1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.

2. Air flow restricted.

2. Clean area around

1. Spark plug gap too close.

1. Adjust gap to .030".

1. Spark plug fouled, faulty, or gap too wide.

1. Reset gap to .030" or replace spark plug.

2. Dirty air cleaner.

2. Refer to engine manual.

1. Cutting

1. Tighten

and on top of engine.

high speed
Idles poorly

Excessive Vibration

blade loose or unbalanced.

2. Bent cutting
Mower

will not

blade.

1, Wet grass.

blade and adapter. Balance blade.

2. See an authorized

service dealer.

1, Do not mow when grass is wet; wait until
later to cut.

mulch grass

2, Excessivelyhigh grass.

2. Mow once ata high cutting

height, then

mow again at desired height or make a
narrower

3. Dull blade.

cutting

path.

3. Sharpen or replace blade.
Continued

on next page

Problem
Uneven cut

Cause
1. Wheels not positioned

Remedy
correctly.

1. Place all four wheels in same height
(if equipped

2. Dull blade.

SECTION 8 --

TROUBLESHOOTING

with individual

2. Sharpen or replace blade.

position

height adjusters).

ModelSeries830

15
29

i"-.24

ModelSeries830
Ref
No.
1

Ref
No,

Part Number

Drive Cable

712-04063

Flange Lock Nut, 5/16-18

731-05462A

Trail Shield

I Part Number
746-04440

Description

735-04059

Rubber

747-04994

Drive Control

731-05157

Rear Mulching

732-04516

Shift Spring

731-05702

Rear Door

710-1241

Screw, 1/4-15 x 1.00

Grommet

Baffle

747-04995

Blade Control

746-04438

Control

Cable

720-04072

Star Knob

749-04555

Lower Handle

732-04534

Torsion Spring, RH

725-0157

Cable Tie

747-05034

Door Pivot Rod

732-04535

Torsion Spring, LH

647-04051-0637

Grass Catcher

710-0599

TT Screw, 1/4-20 x .500

964-04046A

Grass Catcher

787-01618-0629

21-inch

710-1174

Carriage

710-0654A

TT Screw, 3/8-16 x 1.00

720-0279

Wing Nut

787-01346

Front Deck Baffle

710-1205

Eye Bolt

731-06304

Variable Spd. Cont. Panel Cover

749-04504

Upper Handle

726-0201

Speed Nut

736-0270

Bell Washer, .265 x .75 x .062

710-0779A

Screw, #10-16 x .500

732-1014

Torsion Spring

710-0895

Screw, 1/4-15 x .750

17032A

Chute Deflector

736-3000

Washer, Flat, .250 x .750 x .119

747-0710

Hinge Pin

936-0275

Washer, Flat, .344 x .688 x .065

987-02055

Mulch

715-04073

Dowel Pin

731-04177

Side Discharge

710-04373A

Screw, #12-16 x .75

Deck

Frame

Bolt, 5/16-18 x 2.00

Adapter

Plug Assembly
Chute

731-06873

Variable Speed Control

710-1017

Screw, AB, 1/4-14 x .625

728-0199

Rivet, Plastic

746-04439

Variable Speed Cable

731-06189

4 Speed Actuator

731-06173

Rear Baffle

731-06193

Speed Selector

710-3025

Screw, 5/16-18 x .625

Panel

Level

ModelSeries830

47
48_
14

28
..._

_'_
31.-'_ "_25

16"_

36I_

_'_'42

ModelSeries830
Ref
No.
1

Ref

Part Number
954-04176A

Description

No,

Part Number

Description

V-Belt

756-04317A

Lower Pulley

687-02322-0637

Handle Bracket Assembly

732-04338C

Spring Lever

720-04113

Height Adjuster

915-0221

Dowel Pin

917-04540B

Spur Gear, 14T- LH

618-04826A

Transmission

687-02323-0637

Handle Bracket Assembly

Knob

Assembly

738-04278

Shldr. Screw, 1/4-20 x 0.50

710-0895

Screw, HL, 1/4-15 x .750

748-0390

Bearing Support

749-04267A-0637

Cross Bracket

732-04313

Extension

687-02204B-0637

Front Bracket Assembly

748-04096

Blade Adapter

731-05470

Clip Spacer

710-1044

Screw, 3/8-24 x 1.50

741-04136B

Split Hex Flange Bearing

736-0524B

Blade Bell Support

734-04014B

Front Wheel

942-0741

21" Mulching

712-04065

Flange Lock Nut, 3/8-16

936-0447

Washer, Wave, 1.5 x 1.0 x .029

934-04430

Rear Wheel

710-0599

TT Screw, 1/4-20 x .500

710-04531

Screw, 1/4-20 x .39

731-06112A

Engine Baffle

917-04539B

Spur Gear, 14T- RH

956-04046

Lower Pulley Assembly

731-06284

Baffle

756-04311A

Pulley, Half

731-06974

Wheel Dust Cover

736-04413

Wash., Wave, .385 ID x .598 OD

687-02415

Transmission

710-04774

Screw, 1/4-15 x 1.250

731-05872

Clip Spacer

736-0242

Washer, Bell, .340 x .872 x .080

716-0198

Retaining

732-04543

Ring, .3751D x .054

787-01673

Gear Retainer Strap

Bearing Support

Ring .875

Spacer

Spring

Blade

687-02314A-0637

Rear Bracket Assembly

732-04630

Compression

750-05008

Spcr., 25mm

756-04316A

Upper Pulley

736-0369

Washer, Flat, .508 x 1.00 x .020

936-0406

Flat Washer, .442 x 1.38 x .060

732-04646

Spr, Wave

Spring

x 1.375

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
and/or its territories and possessions, and by MTD Products Limited
with respect to new merchandise purchased and used in Canadaand/
or its territories and possessions (either entity respectively, "MTD").
"MTD" warrants this product (excluding its Normal Wear Parts and
Attachments as described below) against defects in material and
workmanship for a period of two (2) years commencing on the date
of original purchase and will, 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 are not limited to items
such as: batteries, belts, blades, blade adapters, tines, grass bags,
wheels, rider deck wheels, seats, snow thrower skid shoes, friction
wheels, shave plates, auger spiral rubber and tires.
Attachments-- MTD warrants attachments for this product against
defects in material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year,
commencing on the date of the attachment's original purchase or
lease. Attachments include, but are not limited to items such as:
grass collectors and mulch kits.
HOWTO OBTAINSERVICE:Warranty service is available, WITH
PROOFOF PURCHASE,through your local authorized service dealer.
To locate the dealer in your area:
In the U.S.A.
Check your Yellow Pages, or contact MTD LLC at RO. Box
361131, Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019, or call 1-800-800-7310,
1-330-220-4683 or log on to our Web site at www.mtdproducts.
com.

In Canada
Contact MTD Products Limited, Kitchener, ON N2G4J1, or call
1-800-668-1238 or log on to our Web site at www.mtdcanada.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. Referto applicable manufacturer's warranty for terms and conditions.

FOR

c. 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 exposure.
d. Service completed by someone other than an authorized service
dealer.
e. MTD does not extend any warranty for products sold or exported
outside of the United States and/or Canada, and their respective
possessions and territories, except those sold through MTD's
authorized channels of export distribution.
f. Replacement parts that are not genuine MTD parts.
g. Transportation charges and service calls.
h. MTD does not warrant this product for commercial use.
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. Duringthe 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 loss, 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.
HOWSTATELAW RELATESTO 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.

b. Log splitter pumps, valves, and cylinders havea separate oneyear warranty.

MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHiO 44136=0019; Phone: 1=800=800=7310, 1=330=220=4683
MTD Canada Limited = KITCHENER, ON N2G 4J1; Phone 1=800=668=1238
GDOC-lO0015 REV. B

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MTD 12AI832Q724 User Manual LAWN MOWER Manuals And Guides 1109296L

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