MTD Lawn Mower 020 Series User Guide

Safety • Assembly • Operation • Tips & Techniques • Maintenance • Troubleshooting • Parts Lists • Warranty  
OPERATOR’S MANUAL  
20-inch Rotary Mower — Model Series 020  
IMPORTANT  
READ SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATION  
Warning: This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-  
covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any).  
If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator. In the State of California the above is required by law  
(Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester  
for the muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 361131 Cleveland,  
Ohio 44136-0019.  
FORM NO. 770-10419E  
12/19/2006  
PRINTED IN U.S.A  
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019  
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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).  
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 compo-  
nents contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and  
birth defects or other reproductive harm.  
2
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.  
Safe  
Operation  
Practices  
6. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during opera-  
Children  
tion and while performing an adjustment or repair to protect  
Tragic accidents can occur if operator is not alert to presence  
of children. Children are often attracted to mower and mowing  
your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can cause serious  
injury to the eyes.  
activity.They do not understand the dangers. Never assume  
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.  
that children will remain where you last saw them.  
1. Keep children out of the mowing area and under watchful  
care of a responsible adult other than the operator.  
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.  
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.  
8. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under cutting  
deck. Contact with blade can amputate hands and feet.  
9. A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade  
contact or thrown object injuries.  
WARNING  
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.  
6. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate a power  
mower. Children 14 years old and over should read and  
understand operation instructions and safety rules in this  
manual and should be trained and supervised by a parent.  
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  
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:  
General Operation  
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.  
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.  
a. Step back from mower to fully extend your arms.  
b. Be sure you are well balanced with sure footing.  
c. Pull the mower back slowly, no more than half way  
toward you.  
d. Repeat these steps as needed.  
12. Do not operate the mower while under the influence of  
alcohol or drugs.  
manual before at-  
tempting to operate  
this machine. Failure  
to comply with these  
instructions may result  
in personal injury. When  
you see this symbol.  
13. Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on units so  
equipped while starting engine.  
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.  
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.  
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.  
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.  
HEED ITS WARNING!  
Your Responsibility  
Restrict the use  
of this power machine  
to persons who read,  
understand  
16. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light. Walk, never run.  
17. Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walks or roads.  
18. If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the  
engine and check immediately for the cause. Vibration is  
generally a warning of trouble.  
and follow the warnings  
and instructions  
in this manual  
5. To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury,  
stay in operator zone behind handles and keep children,  
bystanders, helpers and pets at least 75 feet from mower  
while it is in operation. Stop machine if anyone enters  
area.  
and on the machine.  
4
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19. Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes to a  
complete stop before removing the grass catcher or unclog-  
ging the chute.  
6. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources  
of ignition.  
7. Never fuel machine indoor because flammable vapors will  
accumulate in the area.  
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.  
8. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while engine is hot or  
running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before  
refueling.  
2
20. 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.  
9. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than ½ inch  
below bottom of filler neck to provide for fuel expansion.  
10. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.  
11. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and equipment.  
Move unit to another area. Wait 5 minutes before starting  
engine.  
Safe  
Operation  
Practices  
21. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do  
not touch.  
12. 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.  
13. 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.  
22. Only use parts and accessories made for this machine by  
manufacturer. Failure to do so can result in personal injury.  
23. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual,  
use care and good judgment. Contact your dealer for  
assistance.  
14. Allow a mower to cool at least 5 minutes before storing.  
Slope Operation  
General Service:  
Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents, which  
can result in severe injury. Operation on slopes requires extra  
caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it. 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.  
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.  
This symbol points  
Do:  
out important safety  
instructions, which if  
not followed, could  
1. Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down. Exercise  
extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.  
2. Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or bumps  
which can cause you to slip or trip. Tall grass can hide  
obstacles.  
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. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade or  
wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.  
5. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the equip-  
ment is in safe working condition.  
6. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper  
operation regularly.  
7. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, 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.  
endanger the personal  
safety and/or property  
of yourself and others.  
Read and follow all  
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.  
instructions in this man-  
ual before attempting to  
operate this machine.  
Failure to comply with  
these instructions may  
result in personal injury.  
When you see this  
Do Not:  
1. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments, you  
could lose your footing or balance.  
2. Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as shown on  
the slope gauge.  
3. Do not mow on wet grass. Unstable footing could cause  
slipping.  
8. Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height adjust-  
ment while the engine is running.  
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. Wash your skin and change clothes  
immediately.  
symbol.  
HEED IT’S 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!”  
Your Responsibility  
Restrict the use  
of this power machine  
to persons who read,  
understand  
2. Use only an approved gasoline container.  
3. 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.  
4. 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 over-rev the  
engine.The governor controls the maximum safe operating  
speed of the engine.  
and follow the warnings  
and instructions  
in this manual  
11. Maintain or replace safety labels, as necessary.  
12. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations. Improper  
disposal of fluids and materials can harm the environment.  
and on the machine.  
5. 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.  
5
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Loose Parts  
Carton contents include: Wheels, Handles (upper & lower), Blade Control Handle, Chute Deflector & a Hardware  
Pack. Be certain to remove all loose parts before discarding the carton. Follow instructions below to attach these loose  
parts to your mower safely and properly for best performance.  
3
Hardware Pack  
Setup and  
Adjustment  
GROUP 6  
Qty. 2  
Qty. 2  
Qty. 2  
Qty. 2  
Qty. 2  
Qty. 4  
IMPORTANT  
This unit is shipped  
without gasoline or oil  
in the engine. Fill up  
gasoline and oil as  
instructed in the engine  
operation section  
Qty. 4  
Qty. 4  
Qty. 4  
BEFORE operating  
your mower.  
Qty. 4  
Qty. 2  
Qty. 2  
Qty. 2  
Qty. 1  
Qty. 1  
Qty. 1  
For ease-of-assembly, identify the pieces in the hardware pack according to the chart below:  
Tools Required  
7/16” Wrench  
Adjustable Wrench  
1/2” Wrench  
9/16” Wrench  
5/8” Wrench  
6
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NOTE: Reference to right, left, front and rear of the lawn  
mower is in relation to the operating position.  
Flange Lock Nut  
Flat Washer  
Attaching the Chute Deflector  
3
NOTE: Use a 7/16” wrench and the hardware in Group 1  
to complete the following steps.  
Setup and  
Adjustment  
1. Align the holes on the chute deflector with the  
corresponding holes on the deck surface.  
2. Insert carriage bolts up through the underside of the  
deck and through the chute deflector. See Figure 3-1.  
3. Secure each bolt with a washer and lock nut.  
Carriage Bolt  
Attaching Handles  
Figure 3-1  
NOTE: Use an adjustable wrench, a 1/2” wrench and the  
hardware in Group 2 to complete the following steps.  
Lower Handle  
1. Lift the rear of the deck and place it on a block of  
wood to secure it.  
IMPORTANT  
This unit is shipped  
without gasoline or oil  
in the engine. Fill up  
gasoline and oil as  
instructed in the engine  
operation section  
2. Place the lower handle over the deck and align the  
holes on the deck with the corresponding holes on  
the handle.  
Flange Nut  
Shoulder  
Screw  
3. Secure the lower handle to the deck using the hex  
screws, shoulder screws, and flange lock nuts.  
See Figure 3-2.  
BEFORE operating  
your mower.  
Upper Handle  
1. Place the upper handle in position over the lower  
handle keeping the blade control handle facing up.  
Hex  
Screw  
2. Secure the upper handle to the lower handle using  
the carriage bolts, lock washers, and lock nuts from  
group 4 of the hardware pack. See Figure 3-3.  
Figure 3-2  
Carriage  
Bolt  
Flange Lock Nut  
Lock Washer  
Figure 3-3  
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Attaching the Wheels  
Wheel  
NOTE: Use an adjustable wrench, 7/16” wrench and the  
hardware in Group 3 to complete the following steps.  
Deck  
3
The holes in the deck provide three cutting heights. Use  
corresponding holes when attaching all four wheels (i.e.  
for the lowest cutting position, assemble each wheel  
at the highest hole on the deck). Refer to the Cutting  
Height Adjustment section for more information.  
Flange  
Lock Nut  
Shoulder  
Screw  
Lock  
Nut  
large  
washer  
Setup and  
Adjustment  
small washer  
large washer  
1. Secure each wheel to the deck as shown in Figure  
3-4.  
NOTE: The cupped side of each washer should be  
pressed against the deck.  
small  
washer  
Attaching the  
Blade Control Handle  
Shoulder Screw  
Figure 3-4  
NOTE: If the blade control is secured and in place  
on the upper handle, you may skip the following three  
steps. If, however, the blade control became displaced  
either during shipping or during assembly, reattach it as  
follows:  
Straight End  
1. Insert the curved end of the blade control into the  
center hole located on the right side of the upper  
handle. See Figure 3-5.  
Curved End  
2
2. Gently squeeze the blade control inward and insert  
the straight end into the lower hole located on the left  
side of the upper handle. See Figure 3-5.  
1
3. Check to confirm that the blade control pivots freely  
against the upper handle.  
Attaching Blade-Brake Cable  
Unwrap the blade-brake cable from the engine and route  
the cable under the lower handle.  
Figure 3-5  
Attaching Z Fitting  
1. To make it easier to attach the Z fitting, temporarily  
remove the left side of the blade control as shown in  
Figure 3-6.  
Blade Control  
Handle  
2. Hook the Z end of the brake cable into the handle  
from the outside to inside. See Figure 3-6.  
Upper  
Handle  
3. Reattach the left side of the blade control.  
Z fitting  
Figure 3-6  
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Securing Blade-Brake Cable  
NOTE: Use the hardware in Group 6 to complete the  
following steps.  
3
WARNING: The cable must be routed  
properly to avoid contact with all sharp  
edges and hot surfaces. Such contacts  
damage the cable and render the  
controls inoperative.  
stud inside  
snap fitting  
Setup and  
Adjustment  
Upper  
Handle  
Snap  
Fitting  
1. Press the stud found inside the snap fitting into the  
hole found on the left side of the upper handle, as  
shown in Figure 3- 7.  
2. Secure the cable to the lower left handle with a cable  
tie. See Figure 3-8. Trim off the extra length of the  
cable tie.  
Figure 3-ꢁ  
Attaching Starter Rope  
NOTE: Use a 7/16” wrench and the hardware in  
Group 5 to complete the following steps.  
1. Attach the eye bolt to the upper handle and loosely  
thread the lock nut on to secure it. Do NOT tighten.  
See Figure 3-9.  
Lower  
Handle  
2. With the spark plug wire disconnected and grounded,  
depress the blade control and pull the rope out of the  
engine.  
3. Loop the rope through the eye bolt. See Figure 3-9.  
Cable Tie  
4. Tighten the eye bolt to the handle using the lock nut.  
DO NOT overtighten.  
Cutting Height Adjustment  
1. Remove the carriage bolts and related hardware from  
the wheels. See Figure 3-10.  
Figure 3-ꢀ  
2. Reattach the wheels with carriage bolts at another  
hole. Remember to attach ALL wheels at the same  
relative position to ensure an even cut. Refer to  
instructions for Attaching The Wheels earlier in this  
section. For a higher cutting height, use the lower  
hole on the deck. For a lower cutting height, use the  
upper hole.  
1
Flange  
Lock Nut  
Eye Bolt  
low  
3
medium  
high  
Figure 3-9  
Figure 3-10  
9
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KnowYour Lawn Mower  
Blade Control  
4
Operating  
Your Lawn  
Mower  
Recoil Starter  
WARNING  
This blade control is a  
safety device. Do not  
bypass its operations.  
Use extreme care  
when handling  
gasoline. Gasoline is  
extremely flammable  
and the vapors are  
explosive. Never fuel  
the machine indoors  
or while the engine  
is hot or running.  
Extinguish cigarettes,  
cigars, pipes and  
other sources of  
Figure 4-1:The main components on the mower.  
Now that you have assembled your lawn mower, it’s important to become aquainted with its controls and features.  
Blade Control  
Gas and Oil Fill-Up  
The blade control is attached to the upper handle.  
Depress and squeeze it against the upper handle to  
operate the unit. Release it to stop the engine and  
blade.  
1. Check oil level and add oil if necessary. Follow engine  
manual for this.  
2. Service the engine with gasoline as instructed in the  
engine manual. See engine manual for location of gas  
and oil fill.  
WARNING: This blade control is a safety  
device. Never attempt to bypass its  
operations.  
ignition.  
WARNING: Use extreme care when  
handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely  
flammable and the vapors are explosive.  
Never fuel the machine indoors or while the engine is  
hot or running. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes  
and other sources of ignition.  
Recoil Starter  
The recoil starter is attached to the right upper handle.  
Stand behind the unit, depress blade control, and pull  
the recoil starter rope to start the unit.  
10  
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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.  
4
2
Starting Engine  
Operating  
Your Lawn  
Mower  
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
3
3
1. Push primer three times. Wait about two seconds  
between each push. See Figure 4-2. In temperature  
around 55°F or below, prime five times. Do not prime  
to restart a warm engine.  
Figure 4-2:To start mower, prime the engine, squeeze blade  
control handle, and pull recoil starter.  
NOTE: For the location of the primer on your mower,  
refer to the engine manual shipped with your unit.  
WARNING  
The operation of any  
lawn mower can result  
in foreign objects  
UsingYour Lawn Mower  
2. Standing behind the mower, squeeze the blade  
control against upper handle. See Figure 4-2.  
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.  
3. Holding these two handles together firmly, grasp  
recoil starter handle and pull rope out with a rapid,  
continuous, full arm stroke. See Figure 4-2. Keeping  
a firm grip on the starter handle, let the rope rewind  
slowly. Repeat until engine cranks. Let the rope  
rewind each time slowly.  
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, thoroughly 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.  
Stopping Engine  
1. Release blade control to stop the engine and the  
blade.  
2. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and  
ground against the engine.  
Operating Tips  
For best results, 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  
New grass, thick grass, or wet grass may require a  
narrower cut.  
For a healthier lawn, never cut more than one-third of  
the total length of the grass.  
Your lawn should be cut in the fall as long as there  
is growth.  
engine indoors or  
Adjust ground speed according to condition of lawn.  
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.  
11  
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Lubrication  
Lubricate pivot points on the blade control at least once  
a season with light oil. The blade control must operate  
freely in both directions. See Figure 5-1.  
5
Lubricate the wheels at least once a season with light  
oil (or motor oil). If wheels are removed for any reason,  
lubricate surface of the axle bolt and inner surface of  
the wheel with light oil. See Figure 5-1.  
Maintaining  
Your Lawn  
Mower  
Follow the accompanying engine manual for engine  
lubrication schedule and instructions.  
Deck Care  
Clean underside of the mower deck after each use to  
prevent build-up of grass clippings or other debris. Follow  
steps below for this job.  
1. Disconnect spark plug wire. Drain gasoline from lawn  
mower, or place a piece of plastic under the gas cap.  
2. Tip mower so that it rests on the housing. Keep the  
side with the air cleaner facing up. Hold mower firmly.  
Figure 5-1: Lubrication areas on the mower.  
WARNING  
WARNING: Never tip the mower more than 90  
degrees in any directions and do not leave  
the mower tipped for any length of time. Oil can drain  
into the upper part of the engine causing a starting  
problem.  
General Recommendations  
Always stop engine,  
disconnect spark  
plug, and ground  
against engine before  
performing any type  
of maintenance on  
your machine.  
WARNING: Always stop engine, disconnect  
spark plug, and ground against engine  
before cleaning, lubricating, or performing any kind  
of maintenance on your machine.  
3. Scrape and clean the underside of the deck with a  
suitable tool. Do not spray with water.  
4. Put the mower back on its wheels on the ground. If you  
had put plastic under the gas cap earlier, make sure to  
remove it now.  
Always observe safety rules when performing  
maintenance work.  
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, op-  
erator must maintain the lawn mower as instructed  
here.  
Engine Care  
Never tip the mower  
more than 90º in  
A list of key engine maintenance jobs required for good  
performance by the mower is given below. Follow the  
accompanying engine manual for a detailed list and  
instructions.  
any direction and do  
not leave the mower  
tipped for any length  
of time. Oil can drain  
into the upper part of  
the engine.  
1. Maintain oil level as instructed in engine manual.  
Changing of engine-governed speed will void engine  
warranty.  
2. Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal  
conditions. Clean every few hours under extremely  
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.  
All adjustments should be checked at least once  
each season.  
3. Clean spark plug and reset the gap once a season.  
Spark plug replacement is recommended at the start of  
each mowing season. Check engine manual for correct  
plug type and gap specifications.  
4. Clean engine regularly with a cloth or brush. Keep  
the cooling system (blower housing area) clean to  
permit proper air circulation. Remove all grass, dirt and  
combustible debris from muffler area.  
NOTE: Do not use a pres-  
sure washer or garden hose  
to clean the mower. These  
may cause damage to the  
engine. The use of water will  
result in shortened life and  
reduce serviceability.  
12  
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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.  
5
Maintaining  
Your Lawn  
Mower  
Periodically inspect the blade adapter for cracks,  
especially if you strike a foreign object. Replace when  
necessary.  
1. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug. Turn  
mower on its side making sure that the air filter and  
the carburetor are up.  
2. Remove the bolt and the blade bell support which  
hold the blade and the blade adapter to the engine  
crankshaft. See Figure 5-2.  
3. Remove blade and adapter from the crankshaft. See  
Figure 5-2.  
Figure 5-2:The blade and corresponding hardware.  
4. The blade can be sharpened with a file or on a  
grinding wheel. Do not attempt to sharpen the blade  
while it is still on the mower. When sharpening the  
blade, follow the original angle of grind. Grind each  
cutting edge equally to keep the blade balanced.  
WARNING  
Off-Season Storage  
The following steps should be taken to prepare your lawn  
mower for storage.  
When removing the  
cutting blade for  
Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as described in  
the lubrication instructions.  
sharpening or replace-  
ment, protect your  
hands with a pair of  
heavy gloves or use a  
heavy rag to hold the  
blade.  
5. Remove blade from the adapter and balance on a  
round shaft screwdriver for testing balance. Remove  
metal from the heavy side until it balances evenly.  
Do not use a pressure washer or garden hose to  
clean your unit.  
Refer to engine manual for correct engine storage  
instructions.  
WARNING: An unbalanced blade will cause  
excessive vibration when rotating at high  
speeds. It may cause damage to mower and could  
break causing personal injury.  
Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis grease to  
prevent rusting.  
Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next to  
corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.  
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.  
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.  
6. Lubricate the engine crankshaft and the inner  
surface of the blade adapter with light oil. Slide the  
blade adapter onto the engine crankshaft.  
7. Place the blade on the adapter such that the side  
of the blade marked “Bottom” (or with part number)  
faces ground when the mower is in the operating  
position. Make sure that the blade is aligned and  
seated on blade adapter flanges.  
8. Place blade bell support on the blade. Align notches  
on the blade bell support with small holes in blade.  
9. Replace hex bolt and tighten hex bolt to torque: 450  
in. lbs. min., 600 in. lbs. max.  
To ensure safe operation of your mower, periodically  
check the blade bolt for correct torque.  
13  
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Remedy  
Cause  
Problem  
Engine fails to start  
1. Engage blade control.  
1. Blade control disengaged.  
2. Spark plug wire disconnected.  
3. Fuel tank empty or stale fuel.  
4. Engine not primed (if equipped with  
primer).  
6
2. Connect wire to spark plug.  
3. Fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.  
4. Prime engine as instructed in “Operat-  
ing Your Lawn Mower”.  
Trouble  
Shooting  
5. Clean, adjust gap, or replace.  
6. Clean fuel line.  
5. Faulty spark plug.  
6. Blocked fuel line.  
7. Wait a few minutes to restart, but do  
not prime.  
7. Engine flooded.  
8. Open fuel valve. See engine manual.  
9. Choke engine. See engine manual.  
8. Fuel valve (if equipped) closed.  
9. Engine not choked (if equipped w/choke).  
1. Spark plug wire loose.  
1. Connect and tighten spark plug wire.  
2. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean,  
fresh gasoline.  
Engine runs erratic  
2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.  
3. Vent in gas cap plugged.  
4. Water or dirt in fuel system.  
5. Dirty air cleaner.  
3. Clear vent.  
4. Drain fuel tank. Refill with fresh fuel.  
5. Refer to engine manual.  
6. Refer to engine manual.  
6. Carburetor out of adjustment.  
1. Engine oil level low.  
1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.  
2. Remove blower housing and clean.  
3. Refer to engine manual.  
For repairs beyond  
the minor adjustments  
listed here, contact  
an authorized service  
dealer.  
Engine overheats  
2. Air flow restricted.  
3. Carburetor not adjusted properly.  
1. Spark plug gap too close.  
2. Carburetor idle mixture adjustment  
improperly set.  
1. Adjust gap to .030-inch.  
2. Refer to engine manual.  
Occasional skips  
(hesitates) at high speed  
1. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap too wide.  
1. Reset gap to .030-inch or replace  
spark plug.  
Idles poorly  
NOTE: Specifications are  
subject to change without  
notification or obligation.  
Images my not reflect your  
exact model and are for  
reference purposes only.  
2. Refer to engine manual.  
3. Refer to engine manual.  
2. Carburetor improperly adjusted.  
3. Dirty air cleaner.  
1. Cutting blade loose or unbalanced.  
1. Tighten blade and adapter. Balance  
blade.  
Excessive Vibration  
2. See an authorized service dealer.  
2. Bent cutting blade.  
1. Wet grass.  
1. Do not mow when grass is wet; wait  
until later to cut.  
Mower will not mulch grass  
2. Mow once at a high cutting height,  
then mow again at desired height or  
make a narrower cutting path.  
3. Sharpen or replace blade.  
2. Excessively high grass.  
3. Dull blade.  
1. Wheels not positioned correctly.  
2. Dull blade.  
1. Place all four wheels in same  
height position.  
Uneven cut  
2. Sharpen or replace blade.  
14  
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Safety Labels Found OnYour Lawn Mower  
Safety  
Labels  
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF INJURY,  
DO NOT OPERATE UNLESS DISCHARGE  
COVER IS IN ITS PROPER PLACE.  
IF DAMAGED, REPLACE IMMEDIATELY.  
WARNING  
DO NOT remove safety  
(or any) labels from  
mower for any reason.  
E
R
AT  
G
E
C
15  
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Model Series 020  
26  
5
4
20  
18  
17  
19  
16  
25  
7
6
3
16  
24  
2
27  
28  
15  
23  
21  
22  
1
20  
14  
12  
10  
11  
13  
9
8
29  
16  
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Ref. Part No.  
No.  
Part Description  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
710-0654A Hex Ind. Washer Screw 3/8-16 x 1.0  
782-0048 Cutting Deck: 20”  
749-04037 Lower Handle  
Parts List  
749-1092A Upper Handle  
747-1161A Control Handle (Bail)  
731-0872B Rear Flap  
17098  
Hinge Clip  
710-1044  
Screw 3/8-24 x 1.5” Group 8  
736-0524B Blade Bell Support  
10 748-0376C Blade Adapter  
To order replacement  
parts, contact  
1-800-800-7310  
or visit  
11 742-0640 Cutting Blade  
12 731-0064 Discharge Chute  
13 710-0932 Carriage Screw 1/4-20 x 1.0”  
14 736-0173 Flat Washer  
15 710-3008 Hex Screw 5/16-18 x .75”  
16 712-04063 Flange Lock Nut 5/16-18  
17 710-1205  
18 710-0262 Carriage Bolt 5/16-18 x 1.5”  
19 736-0119 Lock Washer  
20 712-04064 Flange Lock Nut 1/4-20  
21 734-1779 Wheel  
Eye Bolt  
22 738-0533 Shoulder Screw .498 x 1.635  
23 736-0105 Bell Washer  
24 712-04065 Flange Lock Nut 3/8-16  
25 726-0157 Cable Tie  
26 746-0946 Control Cable - 48.25”  
746-0957 Control Cable - 37.25”  
27 736-0331 Bell Washer  
28 738-04033 Shoulder Screw, 5/16-18 x.428”  
29 753-0588  
Blade Adapter Kit (Incl. Ref. 8-10)  
1ꢁ  
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NOTES  
Use this page to make notes and write down important information.  
1ꢀ  
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NOTES  
Use this page to make notes and write down important information.  
19  
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MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR  
The limited warranty set forth below is given by MTD LLC with respect  
to new merchandise purchased and used in the United States, its  
possessions and territories.  
e. MTD does not extend any warranty for products sold or exported  
outside of the United States, its possessions and territories, except  
those sold through MTD’s authorized channels of export distribution.  
“MTD” warrants this product against defects in material and workman-  
ship for a period of one (1) year 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 war-  
ranty 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: batter-  
ies, belts, blades, blade adapters, grass bags, rider deck wheels, seats,  
snow thrower skid shoes, shave plates, auger spiral rubber and tires.  
HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available, WITH  
PROOF OF PURCHASE, through your local authorized service  
dealer. To locate the dealer in your area, check your Yellow Pages,  
or contact MTD LLC at P.O. Box 361131, Cleveland, Ohio 44136-  
0019, or call 1-800-800-7310 or 1-330-220-4683 or log on to our  
f. Replacement parts that are not genuine MTD parts.  
g. Transportation charges and service calls.  
No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of mer-  
chantability of fitness for a particular purpose, applies after the  
applicable period of express written warranty above as to the  
parts as identified. No other express warranty, whether written or  
oral, except as mentioned above, given by any person or entity,  
including a dealer or retailer, with respect to any product, shall  
bind MTD. During the period of the warranty, the exclusive remedy  
is repair or replacement of the product as set forth above.  
The provisions as set forth in this warranty provide the sole and  
exclusive remedy arising from the sale. MTD shall not be liable  
for incidental or consequential loss or damage including, without  
limitation, expenses incurred for substitute or replacement lawn  
care services or for rental expenses to temporarily replace a  
warranted product.  
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or  
consequential damages, or limitations on how long an implied warranty  
lasts, so the above exclusions or limitations may not apply to you.  
In no event shall recovery of any kind be greater than the amount of the  
purchase price of the product sold. Alteration of safety features of  
the product shall void this warranty. You assume the risk and liability  
for 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 STATE LAW RELATES TO THIS WARRANTY: This limited  
warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other  
rights which vary from state to state.  
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.  
IMPORTANT: Owner must present Original Proof of Purchase to obtain  
warranty coverage.  
d. Service completed by someone other than an authorized service  
dealer.  
MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019; Phone: 1-ꢀ00-ꢀ00-ꢁ310, 1-330-220-46ꢀ3  
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