Safety • Assembly • Operation • Adjustments • Maintenance • Troubleshooting • Parts Lists • Warranty
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
21” Rotary Mower — Model Series 400
IMPORTANT:
READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS
CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATING EQUIPMENT.
For US Customers: MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019
For Canadian Customers: MTD Products Ltd., P. O. Box 1386, KITCHENER, ONTARIO N2G 4J1
772C0828
11/30/2005
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
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Use this page as a guide to determine slopes where you may not operate safely. Do not operate
your lawn mower on such slopes.
1
Slope
Gauge
WARNING
Do not mow on inclines
with a slope in excess
of 15 degrees (a rise
of approximately
2-1/2 feet every 10
feet). A riding mower
could overturn and
cause serious injury.
If operating a walk-
behind mower on such
a slope, it is extremely
difficult to maintain your
footing and you could
slip, resulting in serious
injury.
Operate RIDING
mowers up and down
slopes, never across
the face of slopes.
Operate
WALK-BEHIND
mowers across the
face of slopes, never
up and down slopes.
3
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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 reproduc-
tive harm.
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. Failure to observe the following safety
instructions could result in serious injury or death.
2
Safe
Operation
Practices
a. Step back from the mower to fully extend your arms.
General Operation
b. Be sure you are well balanced with sure footing.
1. Read this operator’s manual carefully in its entirety before
attempting to assemble this machine. Read, understand,
and follow all instructions on the machine and in the
manual(s) before operation. Be completely familiar with
the controls and the proper use of this machine before
operating it. Keep this manual in a safe place for future
and regular reference and for ordering replacement parts.
c. Pull the mower back slowly, no more than half way
toward you.
d. Repeat these steps as needed.
12. Do not operate the mower while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
13. Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on units so
equipped while starting engine.
2. This machine is a precision piece of power equipment,
not a plaything. Therefore, exercise extreme caution at all
times. Your unit has been designed to perform one job: to
mow grass. Do not use it for any other purpose.
14. The blade control handle is a safety device. Never attempt
to bypass its operation. Doing so makes the safety device
inoperative and may result in personal injury through
contact with the rotating blade. The blade control handle
must operate easily in both directions and automatically
return to the disengaged position when released.
3. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate this
machine. Children 14 years old and over should read and
understand the instructions in this manual and should
be trained and supervised by a parent. Only responsible
individuals who are familiar with these rules of safe
operation should be allowed to use this machine.
WARNING
15. Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always be sure of
your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious personal
injury. If you feel you are losing your footing, release the
blade control handle immediately and the blade will stop
rotating within three seconds.
This symbol points
out important safety
instructions which, if
not followed, could
endanger the personal
safety and/or property
of yourself and others.
Read and follow all
instructions in this
4. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to
be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys and
other foreign objects which could be tripped over or picked
up and thrown by the blade. Thrown objects can cause
serious personal injury. Plan your mowing pattern to avoid
discharge of material toward roads, sidewalks, bystanders
and the like. Also, avoid discharging material against a
wall or obstruction which may cause discharged material
to ricochet back toward the operator.
16. Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light. Walk, never
run. Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walks or
roads.
17. If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the
engine and check immediately for the cause. Vibration is
generally a warning of trouble.
5. To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury,
stay in the operator zone behind the handles and keep
children, bystanders, helpers and pets at least 75 feet
from the mower while it is in operation. Stop machine if
anyone enters the area.
18. 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 engine is shut off. Never place
any part of the body in the blade area until you are sure the
blade has stopped rotating.
manual before at-
tempting to operate
this machine. Failure
to comply with these
instructions may result
in personal injury. When
6. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during
operation and while performing an adjustment or repair
to protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can
cause serious injury to the eyes.
19. 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.
7. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting
slacks and shirts. Shirts and pants that cover the arms
and legs and steel-toed shoes are recommended. Never
operate this machine in bare feet, sandals, slippery or light
weight (e.g. canvas) shoes.
you see this symbol.
HEED ITS WARNING!
20. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do
not touch.
21. Only use parts and accessories made for this machine by
the manufacturer. Failure to do so can result in personal
injury.
8. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the
cutting deck. Contact with the blade can amputate hands
and feet.
Your Responsibility
Restrict the use
of this power machine
to persons who read,
understand
and follow the warnings
and instructions
22. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual, use
care and good judgment. Call customer assistance for the
name of your nearest servicing dealer.
9. A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade
contact or thrown object injuries.
10. Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being pulled
over the foot during a fall caused by slipping or tripping.
Do not hold on to the mower if you are falling; release the
handle immediately.
Slope Operation
Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents which
can result in severe injury. Operation on slopes requires extra
caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it. For your
safety, use the slope gauge included as part of this manual to
measure slopes before operating this unit on a sloped or hilly
area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees, do not mow it.
in this manual
and on the machine.
11. Never pull the mower back toward you while you are
walking. If you must back the mower away from a wall or
obstruction first look down and behind to avoid tripping
and then follow these steps:
4
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Do:
8. Never fuel machine indoors because flammable vapors
will accumulate in the area.
1. Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down.
Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on
slopes.
9. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the engine is
hot or running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes
before refueling.
2. Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or bumps which
can cause you to slip or trip. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
2
10. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than ½ inch
below bottom of filler neck to provide for fuel expansion.
3. Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause
serious personal injury. If you feel you are losing your
balance, release the blade control handle immediately, and
the blade will stop rotating within 3 seconds.
11. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.
Safe
Operation
Practices
12. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and equipment.
Move unit to another area. Wait 5 minutes before starting
the engine.
Do Not:
1. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments, you
could lose your footing or balance.
13. Never store the machine or fuel container near an open
flame, spark or pilot light as on a water heater, space
heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas appliances.
2. Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as shown on
the slope gauge.
14. To reduce fire hazard, keep mower free of grass, leaves,
or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage and
remove any fuel soaked debris.
3. Do not mow on wet grass. Unstable footing could cause
slipping.
15. Allow a mower to cool at least 5 minutes before storing.
Children
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children. Children are often attracted to the mower
and the mowing activity. They do not understand the dangers.
Never assume that children will remain where you last saw
them.
General Service:
1. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area.
Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless
and deadly gas.
WARNING
2. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain the
blade and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the
spark plug wire and ground against the engine to prevent
unintended starting.
1. Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watch-
ful care of a responsible adult other than the operator.
This symbol points
out important safety
instructions which, if
not followed, could
endanger the personal
safety and/or property
of yourself and others.
Read and follow all
instructions in this
2. Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area.
3. Before and while moving backwards, look behind and down
for small children.
3. Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at frequent
intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect blade
for damage (e.g., bent, cracked, worn) Replace blade with
the original equipment manufacture’s (O.E.M.) blade only,
listed in this manual. “Use of parts which do not meet the
original equipment specifications may lead to improper
performance and compromise safety!”
4. 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.
5. Keep children away from hot or running engines. They can
suffer burns from a hot muffler.
4. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade or
wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.
6. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate a power
mower. Children 14 years old and over should read and
understand the operation instructions and safety rules in
this manual and should be trained and supervised by a
parent.
5. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the
equipment is in safe working condition.
manual before at-
tempting to operate
this machine. Failure
to comply with these
instructions may result
in personal injury. When
6. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly.
Service
Safe Handling Of Gasoline:
1. To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme
care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable
and the vapors are explosive. Serious personal injury can
occur when gasoline is spilled on yourself or your clothes
which can ignite.
7. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, discon-
nect the spark plug wire and ground against the engine.
Thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage. Repair the
damage before starting and operating the mower.
8. Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height adjust-
ment while the engine is running.
you see this symbol.
HEED ITS WARNING!
9. Grass catcher components, discharge cover, and trail
shield are subject to wear and damage which could
expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. For
safety protection, frequently check components and re-
place immediately with original equipment manufacturer’s
(O.E.M.) parts only, listed in this manual. “Use of parts
which do not meet the original equipment specifications
may lead to improper performance and compromise
safety!”
2. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.
3. Use only an approved gasoline container.
Your Responsibility
Restrict the use
of this power machine
to persons who read,
understand
and follow the warnings
and instructions
in this manual
4. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer
bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on the
ground away from your vehicle before filling.
5. Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or trailer
and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel
such equipment on a trailer with a portable container, rather
than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle.
10. Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed
the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe
operating speed of the engine.
6. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or
container opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do
not use a nozzle lock-open device.
11. Maintain or replace safety labels, as necessary.
and on the machine.
7. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of
ignition.
12. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations. Improper
disposal of fluids and materials can harm the environment.
5
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1. Remove loose parts and any packing material which
may be between upper and lower handles.
a. Pull up and back on the upper handle to raise the
handle from position A into the operating position
B. See Figure 1.
3
b. Tighten hand knobs (star knobs) securing upper
handle to lower handle. Make sure that each
carriage bolt is seated properly in the handle.
Setup and
Adjustments
NOTE: On some models wing nuts have been replaced
with star knobs. Figures show wing nuts only.
2. Locate hairpin clip in one hole on the weld pin on each
side of lower handle.
a. Remove hairpin clip from this hole. Using a pair of
pliers, insert hairpin clip into the other hole on the
weld pin. Repeat on other side.
Figure 1
b. Place one carriage bolt (found in the hardware
pack included with your unit) in the upper hole of
the right handle mounting bracket from the inside
outward. See Figure 2. Secure with one wing nut
(star knobs). Repeat process on the left side.
WARNING
Disconnect and
ground the spark
plug wire as instruct-
ed in the separate
engine manual.
3. Rope guide Setup as follows, see Figure 3:
a. Hold the blade control against the upper handle.
Position A.
b. Slowly pull starter rope out of engine. Position B.
c. Slip starter rope into the rope guide. Position C.
d. Tighten rope guide wing nut (star knobs).Position D.
4. Insert post on cable ties into holes provided on the
lower handle. Pull cable tie tight and trim excess. See
Figure 4.
5. Each wheel has a height adjustment lever to change
the cutting height of the mower. To change the height
of cut, squeeze adjuster lever toward the wheel,
moving up or down to selected height. See Figure 5.
Figure 2
Your mower is shipped
with the handle in the
higher height position.
NOTE: Each end of
the lower handle must
be placed in the same
relative position.
IMPORTANT
This unit is shipped
WITHOUT GASOLINE
or OIL. After assem-
bly, service engine
with gasoline and
oil as instructed in
the separate engine
manual packed with
your unit.
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Figure 3
Figure 4
6
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6. To assemble the grasscatcher:
a. Place bag over frame (black plastic side is the
bottom of bag.) Insert the hooks on the frame
through the holes in the side plastic channels of
the bag. See Figure 6.
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b. Secure bag to frame by working the plastic
channels on bag over frame as shown in Figure 6.
All of the plastic channels except center top of bag
attach from the outside of bag. Center top of bag
attaches from the inside of bag.
Setup and
Adjustments
7. Attaching Grass Catcher to Mower
a. Lift the rear discharge door on the mower, and
place the grass catcher on the pivot rod. Let go
of discharge door so that it rests on the grass
catcher. See Figure 7.
NOTE: Make certain
bag is turned right side
out before assembling
(warning label will be on
the outside).
WARNING: Never operate mower
unless the hooks on the grass
catcher are firmly seated on the
pivot rod, and the rear discharge
door rests firmly against top of
the grass catcher.
Figure 5
NOTE: Make certain
cables are routed to the
outside of the handle so
they are not in the way
when attaching the grass
catcher.
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8. To remove grass catcher and utilize the mulching
feature:
a. Lift rear discharge door on the mower as shown in
Figure 7. Lift grass catcher up and out, off of the
pivot rod. Release rear discharge door to allow it to
close rear opening of mower.
9. The side discharge is an optional feature.
If converting to side discharge, make sure grass
catcher is off unit and rear discharge door is closed.
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a. On the side of the mower deck, lift the hinged
mulching plug. See Figure 8.
b. Slide the two hooks on the side discharge deflec-
tor under the hinge pin on the hinged mulching
plug assembly. Lower the hinged mulching plug.
WARNING
Figure 6
Never operate mower
unless the hooks on
the grass catcher are
firmly seated on the
pivot rod, and the
rear discharge door
rests firmly against
top of the grass
NOTE: Do not remove the hinged mulching plug at any
time, even when you are not mulching.
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catcher.
All mowers are
equipped with a rear
protective guard. The
guard helps eliminate
projectiles thrown
by the blade from
injuring the operator.
DO NOT REMOVE
THIS GUARD.
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Figure 8 - Optional Feature
Figure 7
7
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KnowYour Lawn Mower
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4
Operating
Your Lawn
Mower
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WARNING
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Read, understand,
and follow all instruc-
tions and warnings
on the machine and
in this manual before
operating.
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This blade control
mechanism is a
safety device. Never
attempt to bypass its
operations.
Figure 8
Blade Control Handle
Before Starting
The blade control handle is located on the upper handle 1. Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed
of the mower. See Figure 8. The blade control handle
must be depressed in order to operate the unit. Release
the blade control handle to stop the engine and blade.
in the separate engine manual.
2. Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. If unit is
equipped with a rubber boot over the end of the spark
plug wire, make certain the metal loop on the end of
the spark plug wire (inside the rubber boot) is fastened
securely over the metal tip on the spark plug.
Use extreme care
when handling
Recoil Starter
The recoil starter is attached to the right upper handle.
Stand behind the unit and pull the recoil starter rope to
start the unit.
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
ignition.
To Start Engine
1. If your unit is equipped with a primer, prime engine as
instructed in the separate engine manual packed with
your unit.
Mulching Plug (optional)
The mulching plug is used to close the side discharge
chute opening when mulching or bagging grass. Do
not remove the hinged mulching plug at any time, even
when you are not mulching.
2. Standing behind the unit, depress the blade control
handle and hold it against the upper handle as shown
in Figure 9.
Cutting Height Adjustment Levers
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 uniform cut.
3. Grasp the starter handle as shown and pull slowly
until resistance is felt, then pull rapidly to start engine
and avoid kickback. Return it slowly to the rope guide.
8
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To Stop Engine
1. Release the blade control handle to stop the engine
and blade.
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WARNING: The blade continues
to rotate for a few seconds after
the engine is shut off.
4
Operating
Your Lawn
Mower
2. Disconnect and ground the spark plug wire as
instructed in the separate engine manual to prevent
accidental starting while equipment is unattended.
�
UsingYour Lawn Mower
�
WARNING: Never operate your
mower without either the rear
door or the entire grass catcher
assembly firmly secured.
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Be sure the lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or other
objects which could damage the lawn mower or the
engine. Such objects could be accidently thrown by the
mower in any direction and cause serious personal injury
to the operator and others.
Figure 9
WARNING: Wait for the blade to
stop completely before doing
any work on the mower or to
remove the grass catcher.
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.
WARNING: If you strike a foreign
object, stop the engine. Remove
wire from the spark plug, thor-
oughly inspect the mower for any
damage, and repair the damage
before restarting and operating
the mower. Extensive vibration
of the mower during operation is
an indication of damage. The unit
should be promptly inspected
and repaired.
NOTE: To operate your unit using the grass catcher,
mulcher or optional side discharge refer to page 7.
Operating Tips
1. For best results and effective mulching, do not cut wet
grass.
Be sure no one other
than the operator is
standing near the lawn
mower while starting
engine or operating
mower. Never run
2. New grass, thick grass, or wet grass may require a
narrower cut.
3. For a healthier lawn, never cut off more than one-third
of the total length of the grass.
engine indoors or
4. Your lawn should be cut in the fall as long as there
is growth.
in enclosed, poorly
ventilated areas. En-
gine 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.
5. Adjust ground speed according to condition of lawn.
6. If the grass has been allowed to grow in excess of 4
inches, mulching is not recommended. Mow using
the grass catcher to reduce the grass height to 3-1/4
inches or less before mulching.
9
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Engine
1. Refer to the separate engine manual for engine
maintenance instructions.
2. Maintain engine oil as instructed in the separate
engine manual packed with your unit. Read and follow
instructions carefully.
5
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3. Under normal conditions service air cleaner as
instructed in the separate engine manual packed with
your unit. Clean every few hours under extremely
dusty conditions. Poor engine performance and
flooding usually indicates that the air cleaner should be
serviced.
Maintenance
4. The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap reset
once a season. Spark plug replacement is recom-
mended at the start of each mowing season; check
engine manual for correct plug type and gap specifica-
tions.
Figure 10
NOTE: This spark ignition system meets all require-
ments of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment
Regulations.
General Recommendations
1. Always observe safety rules when performing
any maintenance.
5. Clean the engine regularly with a cloth or brush.
Keep the cooling system (blower housing area) clean
to permit proper air circulation which is essential to
engine performance and life. Be certain to remove all
grass, dirt and combustible debris from muffler area.
WARNING
2. The warranty on this lawn mower does not cover
items that have been subjected to operator abuse
or negligence. To receive full value from warranty,
operator must maintain the lawn mower as
instructed here.
Always stop engine,
disconnect spark
plug, and ground
against engine before
cleaning, lubricating
or doing any kind of
maintenance on your
machine.
Deck
3. Changing of engine-governed speed will void
engine warranty.
The underside of the mower deck should be cleaned after
each use to prevent a buildup of grass clippings, leaves,
dirt or other matter. If this debris is allowed to accumulate,
it will invite rust and corrosion, and may prevent proper
mulching.
4. All adjustments should be checked at least once
each season.
5. Periodically check all fasteners and make sure these
are tight.
The deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower and scrap-
ing clean with a suitable tool (make certain the spark plug
wire is disconnected).
Lubrication
1. Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control handle
at least once a season with light oil. The blade
control must operate freely in both directions. See
Figure 10.
Blade Care
WARNING: When removing the
cutting blade for sharpening or
replacement, protect your hands
with a pair of heavy gloves or use
a heavy rag to hold the blade.
2. If your mower is equipped with ball bearing wheels,
lubricate at least once a season with a light oil, all
other types require no lubrication. However, if the
wheels are removed for any reason, lubricate the
surface of the axle bolt and the inner surface of the
wheel with light automotive oil.
We do not recommend
the use of pressure
washers or garden
hose to clean your
Periodically inspect the blade adapter for cracks, especial-
ly if you strike a foreign object. Replace when necessary.
Follow the steps below for blade service:
3. Lubricate the torsion spring and pivot point on the
rear door periodically with light oil to prevent rust.
See Figure 10.
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug.
unit. These may cause
damage to electrical
components, spindles,
pulleys, bearings, or
the engine. The use
of water will result in
shortened life and
2. Tip mower as specified in separate engine manual. If
it does not specify turn mower on its side making sure
that the air filter and the carburetor are up.
4. Follow the accompanying engine manual for lubrica-
tion schedule and instruction.
3. Remove the bolt and the blade bell support which
hold the blade and the blade adapter to the engine
crankshaft. See Figure 11.
reduce serviceability.
10
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Rear Flap Replacement
1. The rear flap is attached to the back of the mower
deck, and is designed to minimize the possibility that
objects will be thrown from the rear of the mower
toward the operator. If the rear flap becomes dam-
aged, replace as follows.
5
2. To remove the old rear flap, cut off the flat end of the
wire rod which secures it to the deck using a pair of
side-cutters. Attach the new rear flap using the new
rod provided with the rear flap, bending the ends of
Maintenance
the rod over to secure.
Off-Season Storage
The following steps should be taken to prepare your lawn
mower for storage.
Figure 11
4. Remove blade and adapter from the crankshaft.
1. Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as described in
the lubrication instructions.
5. The blade may be resharpened by removing it and
either grinding or filing the cutting edge keeping as
close to the original bevel as possible. Do not attempt
to sharpen the blade while it is still on the mower.
WARNING
2. We do not recommend the use of a pressure washer
or garden hose to clean your unit.
When removing
3. Refer to engine manual for correct engine
storage instructions.
6. It is extremely important that each cutting edge
receives an equal amount of grinding to prevent an
unbalanced blade.
the cutting blade
for sharpening or
replacement, protect
your hands with a
pair of heavy gloves
or use a heavy rag to
hold the blade.
4. Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis grease to
prevent rusting.
NOTE: Improper blade balance will result in excessive
vibration causing eventual damage to the engine and
mower. Be sure to carefully balance blade after sharpen-
ing. Possible damage resulting from blade unbalance
condition is not the responsibility of the manufacturer.
5. Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next to
corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.
NOTE: When storing any type of power equipment in
a poorly ventilated or metal storage shed, care should
be taken to rust-proof the equipment. Using a light oil or
silicone, coat the equipment, especially cables and all
moving parts of your lawn mower before storage.
NOTE: Always remove blade from the adapter for testing
balance.
An unbalanced blade
will cause excessive
vibration when rotat-
ing at high speeds. It
may cause damage
to mower, and could
break causing per-
sonal injury.
7. The blade can be tested for balance by balancing it
on a round shaft screwdriver. Remove metal from the
heavy side until it balances evenly.
8. Before reassembling the blade and the blade adapter
to the unit, lubricate the engine crankshaft and the
inner surface of the blade adapter with light oil.
9. Install the blade adapter on the crankshaft with the
“star” away from the engine. See Figure 11. Place
the blade with the side marked “bottom” (or with part
number) facing away from the adapter. Align the
blade bell support over the blade with the tabs in the
holes of the blade and insert the hex bolt.
10.Tighten the hex bolt to the torque listed below:
Blade Mounting Torque
Center Bolt 450 in. lb. min., 600 in.lb. max.
Cutting grass in sandy
soil condition causes
abrasive wear to the
blade.
To insure safe operation of your unit, ALL nuts and bolts
must be checked periodically for correct tightness.
11
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Problem
Cause
Remedy
1. Engage blade control handle.
2. Connect wire to spark plug.
3. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.
4. Refer to engine manual.
5. Clean, adjust gap, or replace.
6. Clean fuel line.
1. Blade control handle disengaged.
2. Spark plug wire disconnected.
3. Fuel tank empty or stale fuel.
4. Engine not primed.
Engine fails to start
6
Trouble
Shooting
5. Faulty spark plug.
6. Blocked fuel line.
7. Wait a few minutes to restart, but do not
prime.
7. Engine flooding.
Engine runs erratic
1. Spark plug wire loose.
1. Connect and tighten spark
plug wire.
2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.
2. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh
gasoline.
3. Gas cap vent plugged.
3. Clear vent.
4. Water or dirt in fuel system.
4. Drain fuel tank and carburetor. Refill with
fresh fuel.
For repairs beyond
the minor adjust-
ments listed here,
contact an authorized
service dealer.
5. Dirty air cleaner.
5. Refer to engine manual.
6. Refer to engine manual.
6. Carburetor out of adjustment.
1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.
Engine overheats
1. Engine oil level low.
2. Dirty air filter.
2. Refer to the engine manual packed with
your unit.
3. Remove blower housing and clean.
4. Refer to engine manual.
3. Air flow restricted.
4. Carburetor not adjusted properly.
Occasional skip
(hesitates) at high speed
1. Spark plug gap too close.
1. Adjust gap to .030”. Refer to engine
manual.
2. Carburetor idle mixture adjustment
improperly set.
2. Refer to engine manual.
1. Reset gap to .030” or replace spark plug.
Refer to engine manual.
Idles poorly
1. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too
wide.
2. Refer to engine manual.
3. Refer to engine manual.
2. Carburetor improperly adjusted.
3. Dirty air cleaner.
1. Tighten blade and adapter. Balance blade
2. Replace blade.
1. Cutting Blade loose or unbalanced.
2. Bent cutting blade.
Excessive vibration
1. Do not mow when grass is wet;
wait until later to cut.
Mower will not mulch
grass
1. Wet grass.
2. Mow once at a high cutting height, then
mow again at desired height or make a
narrower cutting path.
2. Excessive high grass.
3. Sharpen or replace blade.
3. Dull blade.
1. Wheels not positioned correctly.
1. Place all four wheels in same height
position.
Uneven cut
2. Dull blade.
2. Sharpen or replace blade.
12
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TWOYEAR 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 Canada and/or its territories and possessions (either entity respectively, “MTD”).
7
MTD warrants this product (excluding its normal wear parts as described below) against defects in material and workman-
ship 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.
Warranty
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,
grass bags, rider deck wheels, seats, snow thrower skid shoes, friction wheels, shave plates, auger spiral rubber and tires.
HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available, WITH PROOF OF PURCHASE, through your local authorized
service dealer. To locate the dealer in your area;
In the U.S.A.: Check your Yellow Pages, or contact MTD LLC at P.O. Box 361131, Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019, or call
1-800-800-7310 or
In Canada: Contact MTD Products Limited, Kitchener, ON N2G 4J1, or call 1-800-668-1238 or log on to our Web site at www.
mtdcanada.com.
Failure to comply
with suggested
maintenance
and lubrication
specifications will
void warranty.
This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the following cases:
a. The engine or component parts thereof. These items may carry a separate manufacturer’s warranty. Refer to applicable
manufacturer’s warranty for terms and conditions.
b. Log splitter pumps, valves, and cylinders have a separate one-year warranty.
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. If Products are used commercially. (MTD may separately offer Limited Commercial Warranties on certain select products.
Ask your dealer or retailer for details or contact MTD Service for more information.)
No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of merchantability of fitness for a particular purpose, applies af-
ter the applicable period of express written warranty above as to the parts as identified. No other express warranty,
whether written or oral, except as mentioned above, given by any person or entity, including a dealer or retailer, with
respect to any product, shall bind MTD. During the period of the warranty, the exclusive remedy is repair or replace-
ment 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 jurisdictions 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.
HOW LOCAL LAWS RELATE TO THIS WARRANTY: This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also
have other rights that vary in different jurisdictions.
IMPORTANT: Owner must present Original Proof of Purchase to obtain warranty coverage.
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019; Phone: 1-800-800-7310, 1-330-220-4683
MTD Products Ltd., P. O. BOX 1386, KITCHENER, ON N2G 4J1; Phone: 1-800-668-1238
13
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